ABOUT THE ARTWORK
Harunga is a public art platform for emerging artists. It is also a vehicle to promote discussion around some of the key issues present in the minds of the Karangahape Road communities.
The artwork created within Harunga was in response to two key considerations set by the curators. Artists were asked to consider Karangahape Rd’s heritage/histories and future visions of itself:
How and why is Karangahape Rd important?
What will it be like in the future?
Additionally artists were asked to explore themes that were inclusive of the ethnic, cultural, and social diversity present in Karangahape Rd.
THE POWER OF COLLABORATION & CONNECTION
Karangahape Road has always been a haven for those disenfranchised Aucklanders often living at the edge of society. The redevelopment of one of Auckland’s most iconic thoroughfares has provided opportunities though vibrant artwork to remind residents, workers and visitors alike of the distinctive character of this part of our city.
Major infrastructure developments will change the fabric of this pulsating inner city community, whilst these changes have many benefits it is equally important not to lose the essence of what makes Karangahape Road so special in the hearts of many Aucklanders. Those who have been marginalised in our society need to be given an opportunity as part of the healing process to re-engage with the wider community and be given the chance to showcase their wide array of talents. By giving these gifted individuals the chance to create something that enriches the fabric of society is something for them to be proud of which greatly increases their self-esteem and confidence.
The legend of Hape whom Karangahape Road is named after is poetic as he was discriminated against himself and excluded from boarding the Tainui Waka because of his physical impediment. It is ironic and at the same time satisfying that in fact he beat that rest of his Whanau to the shores of the Manukau Harbour with the help of a string ray as the legend goes.
Chris Evans, Lifewise
HARUNGA OUTCOMES
This project received positive media including a feature piece in Our Auckland.
14 new artworks in the public realm were created: 7 bins and 7 benches were transformed from grey.
The collaboration with the Piki Toi artists from Lifewise was one of the most rewarding aspects of the projects from the curator’s and participants perspective and was a valuable outcome for the community.
The activity developed both capacity and capability in the community with a unique collaboration between the emerging artists and the Piki Toi creatives.
Project partners and the community have expressed a desire for the project to continue as the Streetscape Enhancement moves along.
Images coming soon…