First artist announced for Tauranga public art

Downtown Tauranga is set to get a new piece of public art. The artist, Peata Larkin, has been chosen by a local art trust, Font Public Art Trust, to create the first piece for the Font Tauranga public art collection. Larkin, who is of Ngāti Whakaue and Ngāti Tūwharetoa descent, expressed her excitement and honor at being chosen for this project.

Larkin’s design, which will be fully revealed when the artwork is installed in 2024, pays tribute to Tauranga Moana’s reputation as a safe harbor. The piece is intended to encourage people to interact with it and reflect on its meaning.

Born in Rotorua in 1973, Larkin is a graduate of the Elam School of Fine Arts at the University of Auckland and RMIT University in Melbourne. She has received several awards for her work, which is featured in collections both in New Zealand and internationally.

The Font Public Art Trust is grateful for the support of the Tauranga City Council and TECT, who have each contributed $150,000 towards the project. The total budget of $300,000 will cover all costs, including materials, manufacture, and the artist’s fee.

The trust hopes that this artwork will prove the value of their concept and inspire private businesses to support future projects. The aim is to create a series of artworks throughout the city center, making Tauranga a more attractive place for both residents and visitors.