The Hauraki Rail Trail is putting its best foot forward with its first trail-side sculpture.  “The Jandal” – a gigantic iron sculpture, is designed not only for admiring, but for people to sit and rest enroute.

 

The sculpture, created by Hastings artist Ricks Terstappen, has been purchased by the Thames Public Art Trust as the first artwork planned for installation along the Thames to Kopu leg of the Hauraki Rail Trail.  It has recently made the journey from Hawke’s Bay to its new home in Thames, with plans for installation within the next few weeks.

 

The Jandal  was the winning entry in the Utilitarian category of the Thames Public Art Trust’s Open Sculpture Design Competition in 2017. The category called for sculptural works with a practical purpose for those using the trail, such as rest stops, water stops or information stops.

 

“We had 48 entries and they were fantastic,” said Trustee Rob Johnston.  “There are other pieces that when funding allows, we will also look to manufacture and populate along the trail between Kopu Bridge and Thames.”

 

Thames Public Art Trust have 10 art works initially planned for the Kopu to Thames leg of the Hauraki Rail Trail, including the People’s Choice winner of the Open Sculpture Design Competition and two donated art works.  The overall winner; “The Speeding Train” by Raglan artist Stuart Shepherd would likely be installed last, owing to the complex nature of the piece, according to Mr Johnston.

 

The Jandal will be installed within the next few weeks, potentially near the Kopu Bridge or alongside the Waihou River.  The Thames Public Art Trust hope to elevate the experience for people enjoying the Thames to Kopu Leg of the trail, with the additional element of art and sculpture along their journey.  The 7km section extends along mostly flat terrain, flanked by the Coromandel Ranges to the east and Hauraki Plains to the west.

 

The public art project has been designed to attract people to Thames, offering a creative, cultural experience and celebrating the area as a destination in its own right.  The Jandal was considered a ‘good fit’ for the project, capturing the essence of easy-going Coromandel, and providing a quirky rest stop for walkers and cyclists on the trail.  

 

The Trust has received support for the sculpture park project by Thames Community Board, Smart Environmental and Creative Coromandel.  

 

Articled Published 29 August 2018

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