13 May 2016

Neighbours love Rotorua inner city mural

Artist Jeremy Shirley completed his second inner city mural in Rotorua this week and the neighbours love it.

The vivid mural designed to reflect the energy and life of Rotorua and its natural resources can be found on Pukuatua Street in between McLeod’s Booksellers and the old public toilet building. It’s hard to miss.

Rotorua Lakes Council commissioned Shirley to transform the wall as a part of the Inner City Revitalisation and Creative Communities strategies which aim to reinvigorate the heart of our city and renew Rotorua’s reputation as a district with a strong link to the arts.

Lynne Jones, owner of McLeod’s Booksellers whose shop is next to the new artwork said they all love it at the shop.

“It really brightens up the street.

“It was a bit drab around here before,” said Jones.

Wall art is becoming quite a trend around the city with building owners wanting to cheer up the energy in the city and also deter graffiti. Greg Robison, property manager for the building that became Shirley’s canvas, was eager to see the finished project.

“We’re excited to see this building become part of the revitalisation of the inner city,” he said.

Creative portfolio lead councillor Trevor Maxwell was impressed with Jeremy’s work. “It really is a beautiful piece of graphic art. I think it’s a wonderful addition to our city.

“The way Jeremy has worked used iconic Rotorua symbols makes the work even more special,” Maxwell said.

Shirley’s art features all around the North Island and now Rotorua can boast at having two of his largest pieces in the inner city.

Council’s community arts officer Marc Spijkerbosch said they are on the lookout for the next mural canvas.

“We always have our eyes open for new opportunities for inner city art,” said Spijkerbosch.

For more information on the Creative and Inner City Revitalisation strategies visit www.rotorualakescouncil.nz

ENDS

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