Artwork mystery: Steampunk-style sculptures baffle gallery staff
By local democracy reporter Jonathan Leask:
Mystery surrounds three large artworks displayed at Ashburton's council offices for 50 years.
The origins of the large distinctive metal and wood sculptures have the Ashburton Art Gallery and Museum team baffled.
The council's people and facilities group manager, Sarah Mosley, said little was known about the artworks with an agricultural theme.
“As far as we can determine, they have been on display for as long as council have occupied their admin building, and there is no evidence that they have been moved from these three locations in the building.
“They are listed as untitled [and] we are yet to find the title given to them by the maker.”
District ratepayers own an extensive civic art collection of over 180 works.
Many of these will adorn Te Whare Whakatere, Ashburton’s new library and civic centre, when it opens. The opening date has been delayed until January.
As staff began collating the artworks in the council building ahead of the move, they were stumped by the origins of the three items.
The artworks resemble a vintage-farm machinery steampunk mash-up.
There have been some leads that suggested people to contact, Mosley said.
“These leads were mostly for previous councillors and council staff.
“As of yet, no one has been able to identify who the maker is or give us an exact date of production.”
The mysterious three works and other objects and artworks from the civic art collection will be displayed in Te Whare Whakatere, Mosley said.
“Due to the type of sculptures, we are considering what the best location is for these and whether they are placed permanently or rotational like other objects, but we would like to discuss the options with the artist or their descendants before proceeding.”
An artwork plan is being prepared for the new building, which will open on Januray 22.
Mosley previously said they planned to have a gallery wall within the new library to allow for items of civic collection to rotate on a more frequent basis.
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Turn Wallpaper Scraps into Beautiful Blossoms
These blossoms made from Resene wallpaper left over after decorating will mean your décor will be blooming gorgeous, no matter the season. Find out how to create your own wallpaper flowers with these easy step by step instructions.
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