Western Park on Ponsonby Road in Ponsonby, Auckland, is a history and art treasure trove. Spanning 20 acres, though it appears much smaller from the road, the park features playgrounds, walking trails, and a series of sunken sculptures representing historic Auckland buildings.
These sculptures, created by John Radford in 1998, are a sobering commentary on the city’s enthusiasm for demolishing its urban heritage.
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John Radford’s Sculptures in Western Park
The sculptural installation in Western Park on Ponsonby Road is called TIP. These works have been inspired by the changing face of Auckland’s urban landscape.
Each of these three sculptures (and the interiors inside sculptures one and two) are based on Auckland buildings demolished in the 1980s. VIC, sculpture one, based on the building that stood at 48-52 Victoria Street Auckland 1880s-1985.
Reflections on Urban Heritage
These sculptures not only serve as striking art pieces but also as popular climbing structures for children and unusual photo backdrops for visitors.
Radford’s work reflects his deep connection to Auckland’s architectural history and his distress over its loss. He began photographing and documenting the demolition of old buildings at 16, capturing the destruction of three brick homes on Victoria Street.
Radford shares his emotional journey: “I get quite worked up about this sort of thing. It’s like the people who do this damage have no idea how offensive it is”.
Radford says he was affected by the old Hall of Commerce “Not a building many would remember; it was bowled for the extension to the Victoria St carpark. But I got inside and “could really feel this weight of human industry and occupation in there—all those watchmakers and jewelers, all the artisans who used to work in there—there was something in the air, and that feeling haunted me, in a good way, I think” John Radford told the NZ Herald.
John Radford’s TIP Installation
Radford’s installation, called “TIP,” comprises three building “ruins” made of 75 megapascal stainless steel fiber reinforced concrete, with lost wax bronze cast adornments and ceramic implants. These sculptures, named VIC, E & F, and DOO, each have unique characteristics and are strategically placed throughout the park.
John Radford’s VIC Sculpture
VIC is located at the corner of Ponsonby Road and Hepburn Street. It features an interior titled “TEATUBE,” which is viewable through a 35 mm circular window set into the side of the sculpture. This illuminated interior is accessible 24 hours a day, providing visitors with a constant source of intrigue and fascination.
John Radford’s E & F Sculpture
E & F is sited beside Ponsonby Road. Its interior, called “HOUSE,” is best viewed during the day by lying on the grass at the Hopetoun Street end of the work and looking up under the overhang. This unique viewing experience adds an interactive element to the sculpture, inviting visitors to engage with the art in a physical way.
John Radford’s DOO Sculpture
DOO is the furthest from the road, perched on the brink of the Western Park Valley. Its position within the park allows it to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating a sense of discovery for those who come across it.
If you happen to be in Auckland during the October school holidays, Auckland Heritage Festival is an annual city-wide event celebrating the city’s diverse heritage. It’s a great chance to explore exhibitions, walks, talks and tours — through to concerts and market days.
Exploring Western Park
Western Park offers more than just sculptures. The park slopes down from Ponsonby Road to Freemans Bay, filled with established trees, planted gullies, and a network of footpaths.
The lower flat part of the park houses a playground, sports fields, and tennis courts. Visitors can access the park from Ponsonby Road, and Beresford, Hepburn, Hopetoun, Smith, and Tahuna streets, though parking is on the road.
Amenities within the park include accessible toilets, fitness equipment, picnic tables, seating, and drinking fountains.
The 1 km Western Park Path loop offers a scenic route around the park, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the integration of Radford’s art with the natural surroundings.
Other artwork by sculptor John Radford can be seen on his website. The Arts House Trust holds their annual Auckland Heritage Festival every October.
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