Stunning sculptures bequeathed to Corban Estate three years ago are hidden away in storage. Joanna Davies talks to the sculptor's daughter about the frustrating wait to find a home for the works
When Massey artist Peter Sauerbier died in 2006, his last request was for his art collection to go on display permanently.
The sculptor, famous for his intricate metal birds, presented more than 100 sculptures and other creations to Waitakere City Council. His express wish was that they be displayed at Corban Estate Arts Centre.
But three years on, plans for upgrading the arts centre are in limbo and Mr Sauerbier's daughter, Ludwina, wonders how long it will take for space to be found for her father's work.
``We knew that it would take some time to get a space at Corban Estate, but we thought it would be within three to five years.'
Ms Sauerbier is concerned that the council has not put any additional funding into the development of the arts centre.
``It does seem a shame if the council is putting off any upgrades for the next 10 years. It's just baffling.'
Ms Sauerbier has been working closely with the council to ensure her father's wishes are respected.
``But I didn't know they were looking at taking funding away from the arts centre.'
In the council's long-term community plan, which is open for submissions, no funding has been allocated for upgrades to Corban Estate.
The $800,000 sculpture collection is in storage, but Ms Sauerbier says the council is working on a touring proposal for a selection of the artworks.
``The proposal is beautiful, and the tour could take up to three years, depending on the galleries' schedules.'
Waitakere City Council's spokesperson Glyn Walters says it could be some time before space is available at Corban Estate.
``The council is the interim manager of the collection until Corban Estate can take possession and provide a permanent gallery space and this could be several years away,' he says.
``The council continues to work closely with the Sauerbier family to ensure their father's dream to have the collection incorporated at Corban Estate as part of its future development as an art precinct.'
Peter Sauerbier made his sculptures from objects and metals found in antique shops and scrap heaps.
In 2004, a retrospective exhibition of Mr Sauerbier's work was one of the most popular events at the Corban Estate gallery.
LOPDELL LUCRE Waitakere's other major arts precinct, Lopdell House, is up for a $7.2 million overhaul over the next decade, including a new car park and structural repairs. In the council's plans, $4 million will be spent in 2009 for the building development, as well as $1.5 million more between 2010 and 2013; $1.3 million has been set aside this year for the new car park.
30 04 2009
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