Air – Neale Park 2011
So what does this title have to do with the artwork and Neale Park? Hot air of course, as in the heated debate that raged for a time when freedom campers parked up in their scores in the car park overnight. Locals were upset at the noise and traffic volumes on Sovereign Street.
Why don’t these holiday makers stay in a proper campground? Why should us ratepayers subsidise tourists? Hey, leave them alone and let them stay; they spent money in our town and we all benefit! Which side are those open mouths and wagging tongues on? Perhaps the work could be called Yakkiddy Yak.
Some people see the artwork as shields, all part of taking a stand on ideas within local community debate. Air also refers to the annual Neale Park Kite Festival held in the strong summer breezes of late January. And Air is for skateboarding – check out the skilled performers nearby. And if you walk around the back of the toilet block there’s more. By the way, you are no longer permitted to freedom camp in the car park but there are plenty of other options around Nelson City. Check out the Nelson City Council website to find out where.
