Cabinet art draws on colourful history

301014aw12 Joe Horvath (left) and Chris Newman in front of the Chorus Mural box on the corner of Ranolf and Devon streets. 30 October 2014 Picture by Andrew Warner.

Art and history are the last things you might expect to find on Chorus cabinets, but local artists have begun decorating the cabinets for a second time.

A venture between Chorus and the Rotorua District Council to decorate 11 cabinets around Rotorua was recently extended to cover a further 12 of the most frequently tagged cabinets in the city.

Council community arts adviser Marc Spijkerbosch said that was about two-thirds of the total cabinets in Rotorua.

Image 1 of 3: 030214sp2 RGP 12Aug14 - SUCCESS: Local artist Chris Newman's tribute to Jean Batten on Springfield Rd was painted as part of the Chorus programme. PHOTO/STEPHEN PARKER 030214SP2

A call for submissions from local artists had been well received, he said.

"We received about 50 submissions. I'm delighted with it really. There is really quality art work coming through."

Local artist Chris Newman said his new murals would continue to depict local icons, like former Joe's Diner owner Joe Horvath.

"I have been focusing on the Rotorua icons theme. It acknowledges some of the more positive role models in the community, past and present. And I tie it in with education by putting a biography on the side."

Mr Horvath said he got a fright when he saw his face on the cabinet.

"I was driving home with my wife and she said, 'hey, it's Joe's Diner'," he said.

Mr Newman said decorating the cabinets was a great way to receive instant feedback from the community.

Artist Chris Newman's portrayal of Joe Horvath, who ran Joe's Diner for more than 40 years. Photo / Andrew warner

"They get a massive reception, you are out in the elements, and people just come along beside you ... it's been nice getting people's feedback and it's really cool when people get to see how a piece is being put together."

Other artists taking part include Warren Houston, Heidi Stook, Paul Walsh and Robyn Williams.