Community to help paint a picture for public art

Western Bay of Plenty District Council is seeking feedback from the community to help shape their community's art scene.

The proposed changes to the policy aim to clarify roles and responsibilities in the provision of public art and have clear objectives about what public art achieves for the district.

Public art is any artwork in a public space like parks, buildings, or streets. It can take many forms such as sculptures, murals, digital art/projections, nature-based art, and sound art. It can be permanent or temporary. The majority of public art in the District is provided by community groups, rather than funded by Council.

“Public art helps to enhance and enliven our experience of public space. It contributes to a sense of pride and belonging in our District, supports thriving communities and showcases the creativity of our artists,” explains Council’s Policy and Planning Manager, Matthew Leighton.

“Through this process we’re confident we can add to the vibrancy of our District - expressing and supporting a sense of neighbourhood history, culture, and identity, and helps drive economic vitality.”

Council has worked with tāngata whenua and community groups involved in public art to help make improvements to the current policy.

It's now time for the Western Bay community to share their thoughts on the proposed changes. This feedback will help finalise the policy and guide how we deliver public art in partnership with and for our community.

Join in the kōrero.

Online Wānanga ipurangi

For more information and to provide your feedback on the draft policy visit: haveyoursay.westernbay.govt.nz/publicart

Hard copy Pepa mārō

Available at all Western Bay Library and Service Centres and Barkes Corner Head Office.

In Person, ā kanohi

If you would also like to provide your feedback to Council in person, please contact haveyoursay@westernbay.govt.nz by 30 April 2024 to secure a timeslot.

Feedback closes 5pm, Tuesday 30 April.