MEDIA RELEASE
31 May 2005

Concerns raised about Aotea Square sculpture

Auckland City Council is listening carefully to concerns raised over the potential removal of Terry Stringer’s Mountain Fountain sculpture in Aotea Square.

Chairperson of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee, Councillor Penny Sefuiva says that early consultation with the artist and the arts community should have been undertaken.

“We regret that the initial brief for the redesign of the square did not take the future of the sculpture into consideration. I have assured the artist that we will work with him to find a new home for the sculpture, either within the newly developed square or at an alternative site,” says Mrs Sefuiva.

“This matter has highlighted that we need a robust and transparent protection process for our public art. Significant sculptural pieces should be assumed to be permanent and not subject to the swings of fashion or personalities,” she says.

“I am aware of a broader concern among artists over other current public commissions. It is my wish to reassure them that the city values its art and will treat it with the respect it deserves.”

Councillor Sefuiva will meet with the artist and the Public Arts Sub-Committee in June to explore the issues around the Aotea Square sculpture, including the major repairs needed for the carpark roof.

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