Maree weaves art into signs
The design for Eltham’s new welcome signs was inspired by a woven artwork.
Textile artist Maree Liddington’s work has been selected by the South Taranaki District Council to be made into four signs, one at each entrance to the town.
It features native birds around a lake, symbolising the nearby Rotokare Scenic Reserve, where she often goes for walks.
‘‘The idea was going to be a weaving design,’’ she said. ‘‘Painting isn’t my forte; I’m a weaver and fabric artist.’’
She studied photos of birds to get the colours right on the tu¯¯ı, t¯ıeke (saddleback), kiwi and kereru¯ .
‘‘I’d been working on it for about a year, using different shapes, with the idea of the birds around the lake. When I saw the competition advertised, I thought the idea would suit a sign,’’ she said.
‘‘Rotokare is the jewel in the crown for the district and people are very passionate about the lake and the wildlife.’’
Now the design has been chosen, council staff will work with a graphic artist to adapt the final image and wording, and will obtain the necessary approvals to get them erected.
The painting will be transferred to a sign and the colours will be brightened so they can withstand the elements, she said.
‘‘It’s quite exciting. It’s great to be recognised, and I’m going to drive past it every day.’’
It was hoped the signs will be installed in the next two months.
Liddington’s design was chosen from six options entered for consideration, and 170 people voted on the designs. ‘‘Thank you to all the contributors who put forward designs for the signs, especially the students from Eltham Primary School, and to everyone who took time to vote,’’ Eltham Community Board chair Karen Cave said in a statement.