Eketahuna artist Mark Watson at the unveiling of his 3D artwork on Sunday. PHOTO/BECKIE WILSON
BECKIE WILSON
The Eketahuna community was left mesmerised by the 3D artwork a local artist had created for the small rural town.
The artist Mark Watson, Tararua Mayor Tracey Collis and Eketahuna Community Board member Di Eagle cut the ribbon in a joint effort marking its official opening on Sunday afternoon.
Described as a piece of art that not only reflects Eketahuna as a town, but also its people and its history, Mrs Collis thanked Mr Watson for the gift he had given the community.
A large crowd gathered infront of the town’s Kiwi statue and Chorus building to get the first glimpse of the much-anticipated creation.
Mr Watson thanked the community for the opportunity to “bring colour and vibrancy into the town”.
The 3D artwork which takes over the foyer of the building features native flora and fauna, where you would typically spot a Kiwi.
“This project achieves town pride, reflects history and helps the visitors understand the town,” Mrs Collis said.
“[To Mark] we are very proud of you and we are looking forward to sharing your talent.”
Mrs Eagle said the idea of painting the building came about after the relocation of the Kiwi about two years ago.
In partnership for Chorus, they were able to produce a piece of art that showed “the bush reclaiming the post office”.
“Because we are unable to use the building any more it was crucial for us to use it as a part of the town rather than a relic of the past.”
After the official opening, the public were able to walk around the building with 3D glasses and take in the unique art.
An Eketahuna resident Gary Howells said the painting was “absolutely amazing”.
“I didn’t expect it to be like that . . . but I’m impressed.”
Samantha Ifill, owner of the nearby Tabu boutique store, was also impressed by the art — “it’s amazing, but once you have the glasses on it’s impressive”.
She hoped it would encourage more visitors to stop along the Main St and have a look.
Glasses to enjoy the 3D artwork can be purchased from the nearby information centre for $2.
It’s wonderful to have such colour in town.. let’s have more
Is this chromadepth?
I believe so