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Frequent users of the Alpha Street Reserve in Cromwell have been treated to a creative transformation of the Alpha Street Pavilion over the past couple of weeks. The large-scale street art installation features the faces of our community and acknowledges the role that sport plays in bringing people together. Subtle symbolism in the work references those themes. The Central Otago District Arts Trust, in partnership with Central Otago District Council’s Welcoming Communities commissioned the artwork.

The Central Otago District Arts Trust (CODAT) recognises a growing enthusiasm for public art projects across the district. The Cromwell Multicultural Mural was an ideal opportunity to continue to support diverse art genres by bringing a street art project to the community. 

Welcoming Communities supported this project through a grant from the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment to support connections between newcomers and members of the community. CODAT applied for further funds from various organisations across the South Island to enable the project to go ahead,

The renowned street artist “Ling” has strong ties to Cromwell and was thrilled to explore and nurture those connections to the community. “Spending time in the community and listening to the comments of those who stopped by reinforced the level of interest in the project,” the artist said. “It shows how much the community cares.”

Ling met individually with each of the people featured in the art and commented: “Those interactions are important as it allows individual personalities to come alive. Portraits involve exploring both the physical attributes and the personality behind the face.” He said it was “nice to celebrate and reinforce how multicultural Cromwell is.” I’ve enjoyed sharing stories and being part of welcoming people into the community through this artwork.”

Throughout the duration of the project CODAT implemented a visit by Cromwell College pupils to the site. Matt spoke with around 25 pupils about his profession and demonstrated various processes and techniques.

Going by the feedback so far, the art has been well received by the community and will stand the test of time, providing a launching pad for even more adventurous projects in the future..