29 October 2013
The illuminated blooms which periodically open and close have enthralled young and old alike, and led to the extension of what was originally a one-year commission.
Auckland Art Gallery Director Rhana Devenport, says Choi Jeong Hwa - described as Korea's 'bad boy of art' - is an extraordinary artist, and it's been an honour and a delight to have his work in the Gallery for people to enjoy for free.
'Flower Chandelier is incredibly beautiful in the atrium space and has set a high bar for public art in New Zealand. We have welcomed more than a million visitors who have enjoyed the work in the Gallery since our 2011 opening.
'We're inviting people to share their memories and images of Flower Chandelier on our Facebook page, as it's been among the most photographed works in the Gallery over the last two years.'
Choi's installation was one of three temporary works commissioned to celebrate the opening of the redeveloped Gallery in 2011, alongside Jeppe Hein's Long Modified Bench Auckland, which remains on the Gallery's Edmiston Sculpture Terrace until 2014.
Work is already underway for a new installation in the atrium space, and will be announced before the end of the year.
