ArtBox prototype on show

ArtBox prototype on show

CPIT's Faculty of Creative Industries will reveal their ArtBox prototype module next Tuesday 25 October. The unveiling of the prototype marks the beginning of the initiative to provide gallery and studio spaces for displaced Christchurch artists. It will be the first opportunity for the community to view the 2.9 x 5.8 meter module which is the culmination of months of planning, design and construction.

The ArtBox project aims to help reinvigorate arts in the Christchurch community. The adaptable modules can be stacked, oriented and arranged in various practical configurations to build a functional space for use by artists. Although designed for temporary use, the modules have been engineered to such a high level that they can be used as buildings for years to come.

Martin Trusttum, CPIT Stakeholder Manager for the Creative Industries Faculty and ArtBox Project Organiser believes the models hold cultural value for the future of Christchurch. "Initially the modules will provide a solution to the lack of space for artists. We aim to move them around the city to encourage public re-engagement with the CBD. Then the structures could be used as permanent commercial buildings or even housing. They are a sustainable option," he said.

The ArtBox project also brings opportunity for Canterbury's workforce and youth. The structural module, cladding, floor, roof panels and even foundation will all be built at local manufacturing facilities from New Zealand made products. "We want the project to support the whole community, to maintain our CBD and keep the soul of Christchurch alive," Trusttum said. The 18 planned structures will initially be positioned around the CPIT Madras Street campus offering students roles such as operations managers, project managers and promotional personnel.

The fully functional prototype will be on show at F3 Design on Cass St in Christchurch from 12.30pm on Tuesday 25 October. It is an exciting step forward for ArtBox. "Fundraising efforts are currently underway to raise the money to build the ArtBoxes and get artists into them showing their work. We can't wait to see the modules in use," Trusttum said.

The modules cost approximately $12,500 each to build and a fundraising auction will be held at Webb's Auction House on Thursday 27 October featuring art from 60 prominent New Zealand artists including Don Binney, Nigel Brown and Dick Frizzell. The works will be on show at Webb's from Tuesday 25 Oct.

ArtBox is also fortunate to have the backing of the Christchurch Polytech Foundation, Creative New Zealand, F3 Design, Webb's, Chambers@241, Q Brand Agency, NZ Steel, Placemakers and Arts Voice Christchurch.

More information about the project and auction is available at http://artboxnz.weebly.com/

ENDS