Artistic ‘response to lockdown’ now installed in Vogel St
A 610kg sculpture created during lockdown and symbolising New Zealand’s Covid19 journey was installed in Vogel St yesterday.
Facilitator Lawrie Forbes, of Dunedin, created the sculpture from three vessel parts, melded to create the tail of a Southern Right whale.
In January, while at Curio Bay to give a quote for a fireplace, Mr Forbes was inspired to create a sculpture about the nature of whales and the whaling industry.
“The client told me, while I was measuring up, that dolphins swim right in front of their property.
“It got me thinking about the nature of whales and the violence of the whaling industry during the 1800s.’’
When the country was put into the lockdown, he began creating his piece, called Toru, after the Maori word for three.
He found three ship parts, some of many he collects, for the work.
“I looked through what I had and found three vessel parts that I knew would be perfect.”
He spent 240 hours working on the sculpture throughout Level 4 lockdown, and said as he continued the sculpture took on more meaning.
“The similarities are between three hardworking harbour vessels that kept our harbours safe for travel and trade and the three individuals leading our country on its present rough journey.
“The ships represent the journey of all of us, but the three parts also reflect our three leaders throughout; Jacinda Ardern, Ashley Bloomfield and Grant Robertson.’’
The sculpture was a “response to lockdown”, Mr Forbes said.
“It’s been a journey towards safety for most and a changed harbour view on our passage back.”