A wall in Karori is getting a new lease on life with a mural by a local artist.
Graphic designer and Korean New Zealander Keehwa Hong answered an open call for artists by the Wellington City Council last year.
It is being painted across three sides of an old electricity substation (east, south and west facades) at the entrance to Karori Pool on Donald St.
Originally intended for an inside wall of the recently refurbished Karori Recreation Centre, the competition judges thought it would look better brightening up a blank wall outside the local pool instead.
Hong wanted her mural to reflect the pool, the neighbouring school, and the opportunities for recreation in nature that Karori offered.
“I wanted to create a dynamic, playful, friendly illustration,” she said.
She was inspired by the many activities available on the suburb’s back doorstep, from walking and mountain biking to the wildlife at Zealandia.
“[It’s about] human activities and wildlife in harmony.”
Several plants and birds were embedded in the mural: Mamaku, Tree Fuschia, Kākā, Kākāriki, Little Spotted Kiwi and Tītipounamu.
The background shows Karori’s geographical landscape in the meeting point of the two continental plates beneath our feet; the Australian and Pacific plates.
Karori reservoirs, tunnel, and Wellington harbour are visible in the distance, and a glimpse of Petone over the harbour.
Hong expected to be finished by early Feb, weather permitting, with herself and her partner painting only on the weekends.
