A group of artists will camp at Kowai Bush at the site where the braided Waimakariri River will turn into a concrete canal if the Central Plains water scheme goes ahead.
An exquisite valley of lush rolling hills and mature trees planted by generations of Deans will be submerged by a 55 metre dam if the scheme is approved.
The artists involved are Mark Adams, Nigel Brown, Linda James, Sam Mahon, Albi McCathy, Ramonda Te Maiharoa, Tiffany Thornley, Becky Turrell and also Hope and Zusters.
“We are camping from March 20 to 23 where the Waimakariri River leaves the Gorge and the braided section of the river begins,’’ Zusters and Hope said.
“This is the location of the Upper Intake and canal for the proposed Central Plains scheme. We will be organising a tour of the surrounding area that would be affected if this scheme goes ahead.
“Artists will be able to see, feel, touch, collect, sketch, photograph, film, write, process and draw their experiences to use as the basis for a water art exhibition we are planning for later in the year. There will be no decision on Central Plains Water before May and so this is perfect timing for publicity purposes to protect and celebrate the river through their artwork,’’ they said.