AUCKLAND CITY COUNCIL

MEDIA RELEASE

6 April 2006

Public art resiting policy in place

Future decisions about resiting or removing Auckland City's public art works will be guided by a new policy and guidelines approved by the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee.

"This new policy will provide us with a clear direction and a transparent process when it comes to considering resiting or removing public art works in the future," says Councillor Penny Sefuiva, chairperson of the Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee.

The development of the policy was triggered by concerns raised around the proposed removal of art works from Aotea Square and Khartoum Place last year.

"As council wrestled with these decisions last year, it became apparent that we needed a specific policy to address the interests of the artists, the public, council and other major players to ensure we were taking the most informed way forward," says Mrs Sefuiva.

Key external expertise was involved in the development of the policy and feedback was invited from over 120 artists, patrons, public and private art administrators, art dealers, consultants, academics, landscape architects and local and central government arts officers.

Research revealed that elsewhere in New Zealand, and even in Australia and the UK, very few examples of resiting or removal policies existed. In crafting this policy Auckland City officers have looked further abroad to international best practice and propose the most practical solutions for a local environment.

The main objectives of the policy are to:

- create a clear, transparent and rigorous process for decision-making

- demonstrate respect for the moral rights of the artist and the integrity of the public art work and its site

- ensure compliance with any contractual obligations relating to the public art work

- ensure consistent and ongoing good management of Auckland City's public art collection, and

- make a positive contribution to high quality urban design.

The policy covers public art work sited outdoors and owned by Auckland City or on long-term loan to Auckland City, which have been recorded as part of the public art collection.

The policy thoroughly outlines the decision-making process, who needs to be involved and in what way, what options may be considered by the decision-making body and how these should be implemented.

Underlying the policy is the recognition that removal of public art works will only be considered after careful and impartial evaluation and when no other option exists.

"When it comes to public art works, decisions are often charged with emotion and driven by subjective views. It is paramount that we have a policy in place that will guide decision-making," says Councillor Sefuiva. "This policy will forge a greater understanding and clear expectation for all parties involved."

The policy will be referenced in artists' contracts so there is clarity about the process at the point of commission. The policy will be incorporated into Auckland City's Public Art Policy.

Copies of the policy are available on requested from Auckland City by phoning (09) 379 2020.

ENDS

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