From drab to designer—Upper Hutt mural project underway
From drab to designer—Upper Hutt mural project underway
Upper Hutt City Council, Fraser Crescent School, and Artist Daniel Mills take the first steps toward creation of a safer and more inviting public access way.
UPPER HUTT, Wellington NZ, 22 OCT 2015—Help is on the way to improve a public access way in Upper Hutt thanks to local artist Daniel Mills, Fraser Crescent School, and Upper Hutt City Council. Recent user survey results described the Fraser Crescent to Bonnie Glen Crescent pedestrian access way as dirty, disgusting, and drab. Some users reported feeling scared in the space—especially at night. Neighbouring residents reported ongoing problems, and the prevalence of graffiti vandalism was also of concern to many users.
The Council installed two LED lanterns in the access way in September 2015. The LED lanterns emit crisp white light for better definition and clarity at night. Council has also committed to the installation of a mural in the space.
“Evidence suggests that the installation of murals in locations which routinely experience graffiti vandalism has dramatically reduced or eliminated the problem,” says Mike Ryan, Council’s Director of Community Services. “Research also shows that community engagement in the planning and installation of the murals contributes to resident ownership of and pride in the area. We are thrilled that Fraser Crescent School is working with us.”
Upper Hutt City Council approached Fraser Crescent School to partner with them because of its close proximity and significant regular use of the access way by its students. On Wednesday 22 October, professional artist Daniel Mills led twelve Year 5 and 6 Fraser Crescent School children in a 2-hour design workshop.
Students shared their thoughts and feelings about the space in its current state. They discussed their ideas about what they would like the space to look and feel like, and Mills guided them to turn their ideas into artistic design concepts. Mills will use these to inform his final design.
Daniel Mills will begin the mural in November. Students will be invited to work alongside him during the installation process.
ENDS