Unveiling of new sculpture in Addington

17 June 2004

A new sculpture, by Christchurch artist Leah Fraser-Henderson, will be unveiled at an official ceremony on Monday 21 June at Addington Reserve (corner of Lyttleton St and Lincoln Road).

The artwork, entitled Respect,  was commissioned by the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board and Christchurch City Council.  local artists were invited In October 2003 to register their interest in designing a sculpture, and artist Leah Fraser-Henderson’s design was chosen in February 2004.

Respect presents a waka with a rock-filled basket overarching it.  The artwork was created using volcanic and river stones, stainless steel and galvanized wire.  Artist Leah Fraser-Henderson said that the river stones represent the Waimakariri River, and its travels, and all that it has brought to the community around it. The boulders are older and tell of a people far beyond modern times. The waka is riding high and standing proud calling for all that would to come closer and help her move forward.

“I wanted people to look at all members of the community, past and present, to “respect” each other, their points of view and their life experiences, as well as the land and the rivers so that we can continue to live in this area for many years to come as a closer community”, said Fraser-Henderson.

The artwork will be unveiled on Monday 21 June at 1.30pm by the Spreydon/Heathcote Community Board Chairman, Phil Clearwater.

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