RĀ

Changing Lanes is a well-established part of Auckland’s creative landscape and is once again a feature of Art Week.

It aims to help create connections in our community, provide opportunities for artists, enhance public spaces and uplift spirits. These projects reference the spaces’ unique heritage, their use as pedestrian walking routes and intimate city business locations.

Celebrating this year’s theme of Happiness, artists have been asked to explore ideas including energy, exuberance, dynamism and joy– using bright colours and bold imagery. Challenging them to use an art and design project to take this theme and create a temporary and uplifting experience for visitors in a public space in Auckland’s city centre.

Happiness warms us, energises us and makes us feel good, just like Tamanui-te-Rā (the sun). RĀ is a text-based sound and light sculpture. It reads RĀ vertically, embracing the Māori name for sun, bringing light and joy to Vulcan Lane. A flickering light comes from underneath to give a sense of fire/flames. Connect with culture, the sun element, and spark your inner joy with RĀ.  

Artists: Tyrone Ohia (Ngāti Pukenga, Ngāi te Rangi), Angus Muir, Dr. Riki Gooch (Ngāti Wai, Ngaati Maahanga)

Part of Art Week 2024.

Proudly supported by Auckland Council and the city centre targeted rate.