Does that towering figure of a boy catch your eye? That’s Boy Walking, a sculpture that has become quite the landmark here in Potters Park.
Boy Walking was created by New Zealand artist Ronnie van Hout. This public artwork was commissioned for Potters Park in Auckland. The sculpture stands 5.6 meters tall. That’s about 18 feet. It depicts a hyperrealistic oversized boy in mid-stride.
The idea for Boy Walking came about when van Hout scanned an actual boy, his son. He then used that scan to create a 3D model. UAP helped to refine the design. They worked on the scale, engineering, and finish. UAP expertly fabricated the artwork. They used 3D scanning and HoloLens technology. This helped them achieve the perceived walking movement. They also created the custom paint finish.
Boy Walking evokes both change and optimism. Van Hout said the figure is a confident young person in a liminal moment. This is a moment of transition and movement. He says it could be anyone. We are all constantly becoming. Always learning. Always moving forward.
The artwork arrived in Potters Park by crane in June 2019. It caused quite a stir. Walkers, runners, and commuters did double-takes as the sun rose. Artist Billy Apple said Boy Walking is great for the kids who play here. He hopes they might put down their cell phones. Maybe they will take a walk in the park and do a bit of daydreaming. He also thinks it might stimulate conversations among children about art.
Potters Park was gifted to the city more than 100 years ago. Frederick Potter gave it for local residents and especially children to enjoy. Boy Walking joins another work of public art in the park. That is The Sound of Rain by John Radford. It is a tiny house with a whimsical crooked chimney.
The lights illuminating Boy Walking are switched on for night-time viewing. This brings new light to the area. Councillor Alf Filipaina said lockdown has made us appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. Perhaps catching a glimpse of public artwork at night will bring smiles to people’s faces.
So, as you stand here, take a moment to appreciate Boy Walking. It’s more than just a sculpture. It is a symbol of change, optimism, and the journey of life. It encourages us to keep moving forward. It reminds us to keep learning.