The proposed artwork, Kaipara Panorama, will consist of 10 large-scale outdoor, black and white graphic panels, combining text and images that talk about historical, cultural, political and environmental stories of the Kaipara.

The panels will depict places of local significance, including the Auckland to Helensville train, the disappeared kauri forests, sand mining, the river and the perilously leaning Kaukapakapa slaughterhouse.

Since the cost of producing these panels is high, the artist is running a crowdfunding campaign to help finance the fabrication of the two largest panels which are 2.7 metres high by 1.2 metres wide. She is looking to raise $2,000 by 21st October, just in time to have the panels made and installed at the gardens.

Carol’s campaign page can be seen here: http://www.pledgeme.co.nz/473

How crowdfunding works

Crowdfunding is a relatively new method of raising money for all sorts of ventures; artworks, films, new products, events; and asks members of the public to donate a few dollars. In return for pledging specific amounts, they can choose a reward – in this case you can choose a set of cards made by the artist, a tea towel from a previous artwork, a print of one of the new panels or even one of the large panels themselves!

At the start of a crowdfunding campaign, a financial goal is set. If that goal isn’t met by the closing date, the campaign is unsuccessful and no money is taken from pledgers, so it’s up to the person who sets up the campaign to generate interest and ask for pledges. This is usually done via traditional and social media.

About the artist

Carol Green is an artist and graphic designer living in Te Atatu Peninsula. Her previous installation, Harbourview’s Laundry, was a site-specific work for the inaugural Harbourview Sculpture Trail and featured on TVNZ’s new series “Neighbourhood”.

Carol’s website is here: http://www.carolgreen.net