Explore the art of the city
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Don't Dream it's Over, Janet Lilo, 2017
These three striking neon artworks bring a fruity burst of colour and energy to Karangahape Road and illustrate the street's melting pot of history, cultural heritage and community diversity.
Why do you think the artist chose bananas for her design?
Twist and Thief, Tanja McMillan and John Oz, 2015
Spot the surprise combination of Twist, a girl dancing with an elephant by Beresford Square, and Thief, a boy tussling with a pig over a turnip on Karangahape Road. The sculptures celebrate the area's history as a farming district, then a shopping area in the early 1900s.
Can you imagine Karangahape Road as farmland? What would it have looked like?
Te Waharoa O Aotea, Selwyn Muru, 1990
Te Waharoa o Aotea is the gateway to Aotea Square, welcoming visitors with symbols representing the spiritual forces of the sea, sky and land. How many birds, fish and stars can you find?
Justice, Lisa Reihana, 2017
Justice sits on the O’Connell Street façade of the Ellen Melville Centre, and commemorates women’s advocate Ellen Melville, who had a 37-year legal career. Why do you think the artist chose scales and what do they represent?
Kaitiaki II, 2009 and Te Waka Taumata o Horotiu (Resting Waka), 2008, Fred Graham
These works mark the original foreshore and former waka landing area before this area was reclaimed. They sit on the same site where the Ngāti Pāoa iwi kept canoes. Can you imagine what this area would have looked like 150 years ago?
A Māori Figure in a Kaitiaki Cloak, Molly Macalister, 1964-1966
This was the first public artwork in Auckland to be commissioned from a female artist. It was seen as controversial at the time as many argued that the Māori warrior should be in a fighting pose. The artwork greets visitors and new settlers arriving on passenger liners. Do you think this is a modern or classical sculpture?
The Lighthouse, Michael Parekowhai, 2017
The Lighthouse is a 1:1 replica of a 1950s family home. Its interior features an installation of light and a sculpture entitled The English Channel. Explore the artwork by looking through its windows and doors and by climbing the exterior staircase. What famous person can you see inside?
