This year marks the 5th anniversary of oOh!media New Zealand’s “Art in the Hood”, a community-driven initiative that runs throughout different regions around Aotearoa and aims to make public spaces better by transforming bus shelters into canvases for young Kiwi artists.
The 2024 theme “Nature Taking Over”, invited primary school students across Aotearoa to imagine what their neighbourhoods might look like if nature reclaimed the streets. Students submitted entries to a judging panel comprising Chris Swift, creative director at Auckland Transport, Wayne Gazley, board member of Keep New Zealand Beautiful, Mansour Johari, passenger transport engineer at Christchurch City Council and Daniela Biaggio, urban ecology manager at Wellington City Council.
The winning entry for 2024 comes from 11-year-old Ruby of Karori Normal School in Wellington, whose imaginative artwork captivated judges with its vibrant depiction of a community harmoniously intertwined with the natural world. Ruby’s design, along with finalists from participating schools, will feature on Large Format wraps that will be featured at their local bus shelters, ensuring their neighbourhoods have a touch of unique, student-driven creativity.
Says Gazley: “oOh!media’s “Art in the Hood” initiative exemplifies a community-first approach that empowers our tamariki to use their voice in a creative way. By showcasing the unique perspectives of young artists, we’re not just bringing beauty to our public spaces but also fostering a sense of pride and connection to neighbourhoods around Aotearoa.”
Says Mark Hundal, head of commercial at oOh!media New Zealand: “We really enjoy seeing ‘Art in the Hood’ brought to life each year, as it allows us to connect in a meaningful way while also spreading a little joy through our public spaces. This year, having Ruby’s winning design from Karori Normal School featured in Wellington, with support from the Wellington City Council, highlights how this initiative fosters collaboration across communities. It’s not just about art; it’s about community pride and giving young people a platform to make a positive, visible difference in their neighbourhoods.”
The winner’s ceremony, was held on 12 December 2024, at the newly transformed shelter by Karori Normal School, with attendees including key judges and oOh!media representatives.
Since its inception, Art in the Hood has provided children with a rare opportunity to not only display their artistic talents but also take ownership of their communities by contributing to public spaces.
