Chorus Cabinet Art Programme back in Whanganui
Published on 01 August 2022
Joint Chorus and Whanganui District Council media release.
Whanganui locals called on to add artistic flair to telecommunications cabinets.
The Chorus Cabinet Art Programme is back in Whanganui and local artists are encouraged to submit their designs to beautify telecommunications cabinets in the district.
Two cabinets have been chosen for a makeover and artists are encouraged to submit their designs before the deadline of Wednesday, August 31. The chosen cabinets are at 12 Carlton Avenue and 39 Hakeke Street.
Chorus has partnered with the Whanganui District Council to better reach the community and turn some of the telecommunications company’s more frequently tagged cabinets into painted art works.
Chorus Community Relations Manager Jo Seddon says that it makes sense to partner with local councils, as they know their communities best.
“We are really pleased that Whanganui District Council has answered the call to work with us again and we’re really looking forward to seeing what local artists come up with.”
These cabinets become works of art in the street, often telling stories about the communities in which they are located, and help to discourage tagging.
Whanganui District Council creative community advisor Anique Jayasinghe will be collating design submissions and working with the two artists selected. She says the council is thrilled to welcome back the Chorus Cabinet Art initiative to Whanganui.
“Whanganui is a UNESCO designated international city of design with a rich tradition in the arts.
“There is an incredible arts community here, ranging from people starting out, through to mid-career artists and those recognised for their work internationally, as well as celebrated indigenous artists, educators and makers expressing their work through all mediums.
“The Chorus Cabinet Art Programme is an opportunity for local artists to showcase their creativity.
“From the council perspective, it’s a great way to see more art integrated into our suburban streetscapes, and the fact that Chorus pays artists whose designs are successful – recognising that art is not merely a labour of love - is another positive aspect of this programme,” says Anique.
Requests for designs are now open and the winning design for each cabinet will be chosen by Chorus from the entries received.
Information can be found on Chorus’ dedicated webpage
All finished art will be included on the Chorus website and will be considered for the 2023 Chorus Cabinet Art calendar, copies of which are sent around the world.
Existing murals can be seen on the Chorus website.
More information: Jo Seddon, Chorus Community Relations Manager 027 655 5135