THE BOOTH TE KANAWA SCULPTURE
Two internationally renowned New Zealand artists have combined to design a large new sculptural entrance for Hamilton Gardens. One is a contemporary sculptor, the other a traditional Maori weaver. Diggeress Te Kanawa was born in Te Kuiti in 1920 and grew up as part of a close-knit significant family of weavers. As many of the traditional skills of weaving were lost during the 20th century this family has played a significant role in the revival of Maori weaving. Chris Booth was born in 1948 in Keirkeri, where he is still based. After attending Ilam Art School at the University of Canterbury he has slowly built up an international reputation. His rock and 'earth blanket' sculptures can be found in Germany, France, England, Demark, Canada, Italy, Singapore and Australia. The sculpture at the entrance to Hamilton Gardens consists of a broken wall of Hinuera stone stacks reminiscent of the Hinuera valley cliffs. The largest cluster of these stacks is covered in an 'earth blanket' of pebbles woven onto stainless steel cables. The pattern on the blanket, designed by Te Kanawa, shows a series of seven repeated symbols that make reference to different aspects of Hamilton Gardens but in a very subtle way.
The sculpture, located beside Gate 1 into Hamilton Gardens, will be completed for the Hamilton Gardens Summer Festival, 17th to 27th February 2005.
Matariki - The Maori new-year and the start of horticultural cultivation.
Raranga - An indigenous plant fibre design.
Torakaraka - A traditional chequered pattern.
Hihoniho - A fish tooth pattern making reference to the river.
Pokinikini - Light in the dark.
Poutama - A stairway signifying dynamic growth and achievement.
Nihoniho - Decorative pattern.
