An exciting new challenge has been thrown open to artists from throughout the country, Aspiring Arts and Culture Trust Chairwoman Jeri Elliot said.

The trust will advertise next week for a special art installation to feature at the newly remodelled Queenstown Airport.

"We are looking for something that makes a real statement at the entranceway to one of the most beautiful backdrops in New Zealand and the world. It's a fantastic brief for any artist," Ms Elliot said.

The trust was seeking expressions of interest for the installation, which would feature at the exterior entrance to the airport.

"We are extremely excited at the prospect of this installation. We have a blank canvas at this stage so it's a brilliant opportunity," she said.

All parties, including the Queenstown Airport Corporation were agreed that the artwork needed to be something very special.

"It's a chance to make a huge statement as people enter the landscape. It's also an opportunity to leave them with something they will find memorable as they depart," she said.

Submissions needed to be with the trust by the end of September.

"We hope to be able to make a decision in October, with the work to be installed by April 2007," Ms Elliot said.

Designs of the chosen entry would be displayed at the airport from November.

ENDS

For further information please contact Jan Maxwell 03 441 0499 or Jeri Elliot 03 442 9587.

By: Sarah