Wind Wand Sculpture

About

One of the most visible art pieces in the city is the 45m-high kinetic sculpture Wind Wand, designed by the late internationally renowned New Zealand artist Len Lye, which takes pride of place on New Plymouth's Coastal Walkway.

Installed next to the walkway's central deck on 31 December 1999 by the Len Lye Foundation as the city's millennium project, the artwork's sphere broke apart in stormy weather about a month later and the Wind Wand was removed for repairs. It returned to the Coastal Walkway on 5 July 2001 for the centenary celebrations of Len Lye's birth.

This dramatic artwork is fascinating to watch during both calm weather and storms. Its coastal location maximises its kinetic characteristics and its impact is enhanced by its highly visible location and the backdrop of the Tasman Sea.

Wind Wand is strong enough to stand upright but flexible enough to gently bend and sway in the breeze. By night, the globe on top emits a soft, red glow.

Wind Wand is constructed out of fibreglass and carbon fibre. It weighs about 900kg and has a diameter of 200mm. Wind Wand can bend at least 20m. The red sphere on the top contains 1,296 light-emitting diodes (LED).

About Len Lye

Born in 1901, Len Lye is arguably New Zealand’s most celebrated expatriate artist. His reputation stands primarily on his achievements as a film-maker and kinetic sculptor.

Source: New Plymouth District Council