Spectators can watch murals taking shape
If you’re looking for a relaxing activity this summer, head to Pataka to watch a group of artists creating murals.
Artist Ruth Robertson-taylor says people visiting the Work in Progress exhibition seem hypnotised by seeing her at work. ‘‘It seems to relax them.’’ Fellow artist Chloe Reweti agrees. ‘‘I think they’re just captivated by seeing it in action, because it’s not very often that people see a work in progress.’’
About 30 people a day have been visiting the exhibition to watch four artists design murals which will be mounted at graffiti hotspots around Porirua. Photos are taken every day of the progress of the artworks, which are on display in the gallery.
Miss Reweti and Mrs Robertson-taylor are collaborating on a mural destined for a bus stop in the railway station car park.
The night-time scene depicts two moreporks, representing wisdom, and a negative image of a fantail, entwined with native flora. The work is about New Zealand identity and our relationship to the land, Miss Reweti says.
Artists Ian Taylor and Ranga Tuhi are each painting a mural for the Titahi Bay Surf Club.
The history of the club is the subject of Mr Taylor’s painting, and he is working from historical photos of rowers and surfers.
Mr Tuhi’s painting is about the degradation of Porirua harbour and Mana Island’s history as a whaling station.
Mr Tuhi is also working on a mural for Titahi Bay’s Whitford Brown Community Trust building.
Artist Nick Macdonald is creating a mural for Kenepuru’s Pit Stop, but is not part of the exhibition, as his use of spray paint creates too many paint fumes for an indoor venue.
Work in Progress is running every day at Pataka from 10am to 3pm until January 29.