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The SCAPE Public Art Trust of Christchurch has launched a funding initiative to meet the final cost of installing a spectacular Neil Dawson sculpture, Fanfare, at the city’s gateway beside the northern motorway by the end of the year.

Fanfare will be New Zealand’s largest public artwork, 24 metres high and weighing 25 tonnes, and featuring 360 wind-powered pinwheels able to be lit up on festive occasions.

SCAPE Public Art Director, Deborah McCormick, said all but $360,000 of the $3.3 million needed to install the sculpture has already been raised and the latest initiative is intended to cover the final portion.

“People and businesses can join our Fan Club and contribute set amounts from $1,000, $3,000 and $5,000, with a range of benefits and privileges, or donate any amount they wish. Supporters will have a share in an iconic sculptural legacy for the city and make a unique contribution to our changing future landscape.” Deborah McCormick said.

Fanfare was made by Christchurch sculptor Neil Dawson for the City of Sydney to celebrate New Year in 2005 and was displayed hanging from the city’s harbour bridge. It was later gifted by the City of Sydney to the Christchurch City Council, which partnered with SCAPE Public Art to re-assemble the sculpture and raise funds to pay for its new installation.

The sculptor has produced other large-scale sculptures, including Chalice in Cathedral Square, Christchurch, Ferns in Civic Square, Wellington and Feather from Afar in the International Finance Centre, Pudong, Shanghai.

Neil Dawson said he was delighted that Fanfare has returned to feature prominently in his home city. It will be erected on a prominent site at Chaney’s Corner on the northern edge of Christchurch, creating a welcoming and impressive entrance to the city.

For more details on the project and how to donate to the Fanfare installation, visit http://scapebiennial.org.nz/FanClub