Public Art In Central Christchurch - Christchurch Art Gallery

Floral ClockCategory : SculptureTitle : Floral ClockFoundry / fabricator : English ClockSystems Ltd, LondonOther collaborators : Installed byEngineering Department, Christchurch CityCouncilUnveiling date : 5 April, 1955Media : Plants and clock mechanismApproximate dimensions : d 8.2mLocation : Situated in front of the SalvationArmy CitadelSetting : Has a border of shrubs and a metalfence.Owner / administrator : Parks Unit,Christchurch City CouncilThe floral clock was gifted to the citizens of Christchurch on 5 April, 1955 by the Calder MackayCompany in conjunction with the Christchurch Beautifying Association. The impetus behind the donationwas the Calder Mackay’s celebration of their 25th anniversary in 1953. 1The clock mechanisms were made by English Clock Systems Ltd, who were based in London. Installationwork of the mechanisms was done by Christchurch Council engineers. The face of the clock is 8.2metres in diameter and requires about 14 000 plants each year for the floral design. Two plantings areundertaken per year with a different pattern for each one, there is a planting in the autumn and another inspring. This system provides a floral effect all year round.After discussions concerning the placement for the clock it was decided to locate it outside the SalvationArmy citadel, beside the Parkroyal. This spot in Victoria Square meant it was keeping prestigious companywith other Christchurch public monuments.Later in the year problems were encountered with vandalism to the clock face, so the council made thedecision to fence the clock in an effort to protect it.1Brittenden, W.J.A; Christchurch in Colour, (Christchurch, Bascands Ltd, 1973). p6.