Art Deco Street Monument
The Art Deco Street Monument is a small sculpture on a busy street in Napier featuring geometric shapes from the early 20th century. It sits among more than 140 buildings and structures all built in the Art Deco style that define the city's character.
The monument emerged as part of Napier's rebuilding after the devastating earthquake of 1931 that destroyed the city. Residents chose the modern Art Deco style to rebuild and created a unique urban landscape that reflects this era.
The monument sits at the heart of Napier's distinctive culture, shaped by Art Deco design and the legacy of rebuilding after disaster. The sculpture and surrounding buildings reflect how residents have maintained their creative identity and take pride in caring for public spaces.
The monument sits centrally on a busy street and is easy to reach on foot; the city's compact size and wide streets make exploring by walking enjoyable. Visitors can pass by independently or join a guided walk with the Napier Art Deco Trust to learn more about the surroundings and history.
The monument was built by local craftspeople using traditional techniques and durable materials to resist harsh ocean winds. This choice shows how the city preserved its resilience and craftsmanship even in smaller artworks.
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