Gumboot capital Taihape to get Otis Frizzell artwork

Taihape will soon have another memorable icon. Photo / File

Taihape's giant gumboot will soon be joined by another local icon, with renowned artist Otis Frizzell to paint a striking mural on the town's Farmlands store.

The gumboot capital, famous for its large corrugated iron gumboot sculpture, will be the eighth rural town to benefit from Farmlands' HeART of the Community project.

The project has already seen the company commission seven murals painted on the outside of each chosen town's Farmlands store.

Each mural depicts rural New Zealand and captures the community's local spirit, history and environment.

Otis, son of famous Kiwi artist Dick Frizzell, started work on Taihape's new mural yesterday. It will take four days to complete.

While Taihape is known as the gumboot capital of New Zealand and holds an annual Gumboot Day, there's more to the Rangitikei town than that. Frizzel said he worked with Farmlands Taihape staff to ensure the large, bold design reflected this.

A public gifting ceremony on Saturday, November 3, at 10.30am will be the first chance to see the completed mural in all its glory.

Frizzel, who has a background in everything from radio to street food, said he felt honoured to bring his art to life in rural New Zealand.

"Taihape's already a national icon. It's the gumboot throwing capital of New Zealand, and probably the world! You don't need to be here long to feel the pride the locals have in their town. There's a real story here, and I really want to do something that the locals will relate to. I'm planning on injecting some real humour into my design too, and I'm hoping people will come from the neighbouring areas to check it out. She's gonna be a beauty."

Paeroa, Invercargill, Putaruru, Gisborne, Dannevirke, Kaikoura and Taumarunui have already benefited from HeART of the Community murals from renowned street artist Graeme Hoete, known as Mr G.

Rangitikei District Mayor Andy Watson will be at Saturday's ceremony.

"I'm thrilled such an accomplished artist is capturing some of our unique Taihape character. We all know Taihape is an amazing place, with an important place in New Zealand's history. Now we'll see that celebrated in art that everyone can enjoy, and share our spirit with all New Zealand."

Farmlands Chief Executive Peter Reidie said: "HeART of the Community is like a mirror for community spirit. Locals can see themselves and their history, and take huge pride in their unique identity. The turnouts at each unveiling, and while the murals are being painted, show just how positive the whole experience can be."