There is a real sense of excitement building in St Heliers as the village prepares to welcome a wonderful new mural by celebrated New Zealand artist, FLOX.
This project has already brought many people together, sparked conversations, and given locals a chance to be part of something special in our community. At Turua Gallery, where FLOX is currently being showcased as a guest artist, locals have been stopping in to cast their votes for the native flora and fauna they would love to see included in the mural.
From children with firm favourites to long-time locals excited to see the artwork come to life, the response so far has been full of enthusiasm and pride for the place we call home.
We spoke with the lovely Liss from Turua Gallery about the mural, FLOX's work, and the impact this mural will hopefully have on the St Heliers community. We are very pleased to share with you what Liss had to say about this wonderful project.
What excites you most about having FLOX involved in St Heliers through both the mural project and Turua Gallery?
So many aspects, we have visitors to the gallery of all ages, who say they are looking forward to seeing the progress, and bringing their kids down to watch. But also, I think this is going to be wonderful for our village. A contemporary and engaging addition from a leading New Zealand artist, which is pretty wonderful.
What does it mean to have FLOX as a guest artist at Turua Gallery during this time?
It's very exciting, we have been long-time admirers of her beautiful work, so it feels like a privilege to be showing this collection and having her available for our gallery visitors.
FLOX’s work is so recognisable and often celebrates native flora and fauna. What do you think her style will bring to the village?
A contemporary layer for our locals, that will also bring people to the village to see it. It feels pretty great to have a large-scale, public artwork that showcases our much-loved native gems, which have been voted on by our community to be included in the design, in our village on the harbour.
What do you hope locals and visitors feel when they see the finished mural?
I really hope they feel a sense of pride and also inclusion. We are loving having people pop to the gallery to vote for their favourite flora and fauna. From children up, there are some very strong opinions and lots of conversations.
You can visit Turua Gallery in St Heliers, or explore online, to view FLOX’s work as a guest artist and follow the excitement as the mural begins to come to life.
We'd also like to take a moment to thank Liss for her enthusiasm, support, and genuine passion for the St Heliers community. Projects like this are made even more special by the local people and businesses who help bring them to life.
Visit Turua Gallery at 10a Turua Street, St Heliers, or explore their collections online at https://turuagallery.co.nz/.
Visit Turua Gallery at 10a Turua Street, St Heliers, or explore their collections online at https://turuagallery.co.nz/.