NCMA 'pocket park' on track for January opening day
Tim Newman05:00, Jan 04 2022
Work on the park began in December and is expected to be completed on January 22.
A new “pocket park” outside the Nelson Centre for Musical Arts is under development.
Located next to the NCMA on Collingwood St, work on the park began in December and is set to be finished on January 22 – and will be marked by a community planting day.
Designed by Rory Langbridge Landscape Architects, the park will incorporate a Harold Pastorius sculpture named ‘Out Black Spot’, donated by Kay Pastorius and Joe Waller.
Before his death in 1995, the American sculptor created over more than 30 significant artworks in public places.
Created from a steel beam in Pastorius’ studio, Waller said the sculpture resembled an orchestral conductor with arms outstretched, and covered in musical semibreves or “whole notes” of diminishing intensity.
The park will also include a pathway through a garden setting, and seating where the public will be able to watch music being made and rehearsed in the building.
Following a submission by the NCMA to the Long Term Plan in March, the Nelson City Council agreed to contribute $25,000 towards the cost of the park – accounting for about half of the estimated $51,000 price tag.
The rest of the money will be provided by the NCMA, who will also be responsible for maintaining the park.
The new pocket park will be set up on Collingwood Rd side of the NCMA building.
NCMA Director James Donaldson said after a year of planning it had been exciting to see preparations at the site begin in December, with the project also inspiring real generosity from the community.
“Our donors and major project funders Nelson City Council and the City of Nelson Civic Trust have helped us transform an impractical eyesore into a genuine asset for our community.
“I’m looking forward to welcoming a whole new sector of the community into our space”.
Original article to be found