The Georgina Beyer statue to be discussed by Carterton council is set to honor a trailblazing figure in New Zealand’s history. Beyer, a beloved local and national icon, became the world’s first openly transgender mayor and later, the first transgender Member of Parliament. Carterton councillors will soon deliberate on a proposal for a memorial sculpture that celebrates her legacy.
Key takeaways
- Carterton council to discuss a memorial sculpture of Georgina Beyer.
- Beyer was the first openly transgender mayor and MP in the world.
- The sculpture project is community-led and endorsed by Beyer’s estate.
- Estimated project duration is 12-18 months with a $300k-$500k budget.
- Public engagement may determine the sculpture’s location.
Contents
Memorial Sculpture Proposal
Carterton’s elected members are poised to consider a significant addition to their town’s landscape—a sculpture of the late Georgina Beyer. The project, initiated by Wairarapa sculptor Paul Quested, has garnered support from various sectors, including the People and Places Advisory Group and Beyer’s own estate executors. It aims not only to pay tribute but also to inspire future generations with Beyer’s story.
The proposed statue will depict Beyer adorned in a Korowai, a traditional Māori cloak, symbolizing her heritage and the respect she commanded. The design includes intricate details and subtle colors, with ground lighting to enhance its visual appeal. This artistic endeavor seeks to capture the essence of Beyer’s vibrant personality and her impact on society.
Funding and Project Timeline
The council report outlines a project timeline of 12 to 18 months, allowing ample time for fundraising efforts and the artistic process. The cost is estimated to be in the range of $300,000 to $500,000, which is consistent with similar public art installations across Aotearoa (New Zealand). The project will be externally funded, with a detailed budget to be finalized upon council approval.
Council staff are set to collaborate with the sculptor and Funding HQ to secure the necessary resources. Funding HQ specializes in assisting councils with fundraising, ensuring that projects like the Beyer statue have the financial backing they require. This partnership aims to facilitate the realization of the memorial without financial strain on local government resources.
Location and Public Involvement
While the exact location for the statue has not been determined, the executors of Beyer’s will have expressed a desire for it to be placed prominently for public appreciation. The council staff have suggested that the community’s input should be sought to identify the best possible site for the sculpture, ensuring it becomes an integral part of the town’s social and cultural fabric.
Engaging the public in the decision-making process is seen as a critical step in ensuring the memorial’s success and relevance. Carterton residents will have the opportunity to contribute their views on where Beyer’s legacy should be immortalized, making the tribute a collective expression of respect and admiration.
Legacy of Georgina Beyer
Georgina Beyer’s groundbreaking achievements have left an indelible mark on New Zealand’s political and cultural landscape. Her election as the world’s first openly transgender mayor in 1995, and subsequent tenure as an MP, shattered barriers and paved the way for greater inclusivity in politics. Beyer’s courage and advocacy continue to inspire many, both within the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
The proposed statue serves as a testament to Beyer’s life and work, embodying her spirit and the values she fought for. It stands to educate and remind future generations of the progress made in the realms of acceptance and equality, and the individuals who courageously led the charge.
| Project Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Subject | Georgina Beyer |
| Type | Life-sized bronze statue |
| Duration | 12-18 months |
| Cost Estimate | $300k-$500k |
| Funding | Externally sourced |
| Location | To be determined by public engagement |
The Georgina Beyer statue to be discussed by Carterton council promises to be more than just a work of art; it’s a celebration of a life that broke new ground and a reminder of the strides made towards inclusivity. As councillors prepare to debate the merits of this project, the community looks forward to potentially seeing a piece of its history and pride cast in bronze for future generations to admire and learn from.
