THOUSANDS of origami butterflies will be suspended over the laneway between Cinders Lane and Armidale’s mall to mark the International Day of Disability next month.
The ephemeral public art work, which will be in place from 7am until 7pm on Thursday 12 December, is the creation of Armidale artist Genevieve Tavener.
“I was inspired by the story of Hiroshima-born Sadako who had contracted the ‘atom bomb disease’ – leukemia,” Tavener said.
“Sadako recalled a Japanese legend that prompted her to begin folding 1000 paper cranes. She believed that it would make her healthy again.”
Sadako died before completing her task. The cranes however, were completed by others on her behalf after her death and the story remains a powerful symbol of strength and hope.
“I understand that one in five Australians has a disability. So in theory, 5000 Armidale residents could be living with disability,” Tavener said.
“This is the reason why I have chosen to create 5000 origami butterflies.”
The butterflies will hang in a rainbow above the laneway.
“I have been working with children from St Mary’s school to create the butterflies,” Tavener said.
“This process has added another layer to the artwork as the butterflies are all a little different. Each one is unique, but together they will appear as a colourful mass.”
