The Boon Sculpture Trail features local and international artists with temporary outdoor sculptures in Hamilton. Photo: RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod
A new sculpture trail has popped up in Hamilton this month and organisers hope it will be part of elevating the city and attracting visitors.
The Boon Sculpture Trail features 26 local and international artists through 23 temporary outdoor sculptures in Hamilton.
Works which are part of the Boon Sculpture Trail 2024 in Hamilton. Photo: RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod
Project leader Nancy Caiger said many of the sculptures respond to the unique location and history of the city. She gives the example of Peata Larkin's work, Waka, which is made of stainless steel and marine cord.
"Peata Larkin's work is a representation of a waka and it's positioned in such a way that it looks like it is about to launch into the river."
Those who want to see the sculptures can download a map or book in for a free guided tour. The tours are offered until the end of March and are available in English, New Zealand Sign Language, te reo Māori, Spanish, Mandarin and Arabic.
Caiger said the idea for the temporary sculpture trail came from her involvement in the donation of permanent sculptures to the city.
"It takes so long to get a permanent work in the ground, [I thought] why can't I do something of a temporary nature that fills in the gaps?"
Peata Larkin's sculpture 'Waka'. Photo: RNZ / Libby Kirkby-McLeod
Caiger said the event was currently a one-off for the Boon Art Trust and was being held at a time when there was lots on offer in Hamilton, including the Hamilton Arts Festival and Balloons Over Waikato.
"Once it is finished, we will assess the feedback to determine whether it is an event we would like to repeat," she said.
The sculptures remain on display until Sunday 31 March 2024.
