Creative call for Kāpiti Lights laneway answered

Kāpiti Lights is getting an artistic enhancement with a new mural set to grace the back walls of 5 Coastlands Parade (opposite Kāpiti Cakes and Bakery). This will complement the newly paved areas and will be established by early November.
Theo Arraj’s proposal, Metamorphic, was the winning concept chosen by the Council’s Public Art Panel from a number of proposals submitted by local and national artists.
Kat Cuttriss, Libraries and Arts Manager, says the Panel was delighted with the diversity of creative ideas proposed and thrilled by the calibre of talent interested in working with the Council to make Kāpiti Lights more vibrant.
“The Panel was impressed with Theo’s concept, which draws on the beauty of a butterfly, symbolising growth and development, to create a shimmering, glowing pattern that will spread across the walls of the laneway.”
Ms Cuttriss says the Panel felt that the complexity of Theo’s design means people regularly walking by will see something new and different every time they pass.
Mr Arraj is a young and emerging local artist. Recently, his murals under the Waikanae rail bridge drew widespread support and interest from locals.
“This mural is the kind of thing I have been encouraging for Kāpiti for years. I know I will do the town I love and cherish justice with this project. Together, we can create more positive memories and experiences for Kāpiti, and continue to stand out as a unique place full of beauty and vibrancy,” he says.
Infrastructure Services Group Manager Sean Mallon says public art has always been a key feature of the Kāpiti Lights improvements.
“Theo’s mural will help take the physical upgrade to the next level. It will improve the vibrancy of the area and will be a focal point for people passing by.”
Work to upgrade the Coastlands Parade laneway is progressing well, with most of the pavers laid, planting going in over the next few weeks and lighting to be installed once everything else is completed. Work to create a public space outside the dental health centre by the Coastlands car park is also advancing, with further paving, planting and seating planned over the next few weeks.
The Council is working in partnership with Coastlands and Kāpiti Lights businesses to deliver the upgrade. For more information visit: www.kapiticoast.govt.nz/town-centres