Christchurch Art Gallery Unveils Areta Wilkinson’s Transformative Sculpture

A new artwork titled Te Mauri o te Puna by renowned Kāi Tahu artist Areta Wilkinson has been unveiled at the Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū. This site-specific installation transforms the gallery’s bunker entrance, which provides access to its underground car park. The sculpture features abstract metal shapes inspired by various elements of nature, including plants, animals, and insects.

Wilkinson’s piece draws connections to the nourishing spring referenced in the gallery’s name, which translates to a “spring of star-reflecting waters.” She explained that in te ao Māori, a spring also symbolizes the spiritual and physical ties between the atua (ancestors) celebrated in Kāi Tahu creation narratives and the natural world. “This work reflects the vital essence of a healthy spring and captures the energy of the surrounding flora and fauna,” Wilkinson noted.

Artistic Vision and Community Engagement

The artwork, commissioned for a five-year display, features a flowing arrangement of tubular steel shapes that envelop all sides of the bunker. As visitors navigate around the installation, they can experience the evolving perspectives it offers. Lead curator Felicity Milburn emphasized the dynamic quality of Wilkinson’s work, stating, “It invites engagement from various angles, making it a compelling addition to the gallery’s exterior.”

Milburn highlighted that the gallery holds several significant works by Wilkinson in its collection, adding to the excitement of this new installation. “The visibility of this project is crucial; it engages the public, whether they are walking by, driving through the city, or enjoying a meal outdoors. This piece not only beautifies the area but also encourages people to explore more of her art inside the gallery,” she said.

Wilkinson’s artistic practice encompasses various forms, from body adornment to large-scale public installations. Her latest work at the Christchurch Art Gallery exemplifies her commitment to blending contemporary art with cultural heritage, particularly reflecting her connection to the ancestral rock art of Te Waipounamu, also known as the South Island.

By inviting the community to interact with this vibrant installation, the gallery hopes to foster a greater appreciation for the rich narratives embedded in Wilkinson’s work and the broader Kāi Tahu culture. The installation stands as a testament to the transformative power of art, bridging the past and present while enriching the urban landscape of Christchurch.