Stay

Stay is a cast iron sculpture series in central Christchurch comprising two life-sized human figures positioned at a fixed location along the Avon River. The sculptures are marked by their static positions but engage directly with the flowing river and the surrounding urban space.

The works were created in 2015 and mark the first artistic presence of this internationally known sculptor in New Zealand. The installation was part of Christchurch's efforts to revitalize public spaces after the 2011 earthquake through contemporary artworks.

The iron figures embody the relationship between human presence and physical space, showing how the body relates to its surroundings. They invite visitors to reconsider their own position within the place and become aware of how they occupy the space.

The figures are located along the riverside walking path between Worcester Boulevard and Hereford Street and are easily accessible on foot. The location is open to the public at any time, though different times of day create varying visual effects on the iron sculptures.

The two figures maintain exactly the same body posture, yet they appear completely different to viewers depending on changing light and season. This constancy combined with visual transformation makes each visit a new experience and encourages visitors to look more closely.