Rotorua artists can show their creativity through installation

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Local artists have the chance to show off their creative streak through an out-of-the-box installation.

The Arts Village has put out a call for proposals for an art installation as part of its Colour the Night celebrations for Matariki 2018.

The Arts Village director Mary-Beth Acres says they wanted to create an opportunity for a local artist to be paid for an out-of-the-box arts opportunity.

The buildings at The Arts Village have oodles of character, with snug spots, quirky corners and spaces full of light and height.

She says quite often briefs for artworks are by nature a bit constrictive.

"We really wanted an artist to take the opportunity to try out an idea in our space that is a bit different or something they have wanted to do for a while but haven't had the resources or opportunity."

Therefore, the installation's brief is pretty open to artists' innovation.

Mary-Beth says the work needs to be designed as part of their space, and needs to incorporate an aspect of light and/or sound.

"This is because our buildings are full of quirky character and have an odd layout, so it is nice to embrace some of our many corners and hideaways.

"We are also conscious that July is a darker and colder time of year, and so the light/sound aspect means it can be enjoyed at night time too - particularly over Colour the Night - and introduces a playful and whimsical element.

"If you think about the amazing Affinity light installation that came to town last year - that totally blew everyone away, but we really want to encourage that kind of innovation and creative thinking locally."

She says this installation will be on a much smaller scale than Affinity, but this is one of the steps to building the industry of creativity and innovation in Rotorua.

"We are excited to see what people's ideas are.

"In the future, wouldn't it be great to see larger-scale art installations being produced here and sent out to the world from Rotorua, rather than being brought in?"

Mary-Beth says they would like the installation to be up for a minimum period of the July School Holidays.

"This is partly because it gets so busy here over the holidays that it means a lot more local whanau and residents will see it.

"As we don't know what kind of work will be selected yet we are flexible - some works may have a longer life than others, and we are really open to working with the artist and their ideas."

More information on the budget for this project and how to submit a proposal can be found at www.artsvillage.org.nz.

Proposals are due by 2pm on May 25.

Creative Communities Scheme Rotorua has provided some funding towards Colour the Night this year, which is making this installation possible.