Gothic past inspires finalist

Producing an art piece inspired by the Gothic side of New Zealand's history could be a winner for local artist Sean Crawford.

The Carterton sculptor has been named as a finalist in the New Zealand Art Show's $5000 Signature Piece Art Award with the selection of his piece entitled Lament of the Sentimental Gentlemen.

The piece is half a preserved black rabbit set inside laser cut steel.

Mr Crawford said he was stoked to be one of 10 finalists for the awards.

"It's good. It's certainly an indication of the work we are putting together for the show ... It's from a body of work I have been looking into."

The piece was inspired by the introduction of the rabbit into the country and while it may appear creepy to some viewers, it was meant to be thought-provoking, he said.

Mr Crawford is well known for his works in the region for creating sculptural art combining old and new technology using distinctive materials with works commissioned both in New Zealand and overseas, including four-metre-tall illuminated signs at the entrances to Carterton.

The 10 finalists' work in the $5000 Signature Piece Art Award will be on show at the 10th Annual Art Show being held at the TSB Bank Arena on Wellington's waterfront from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28.