Whaiwhakaaroaro Deep Thinker by Gregor Kregar, 2020

This two metre high gnome silently gazes out across the streetscape, contemplating all who pass by. A cheeky piwakawaka (fantail) playfully perches on his right shoulder, while a curious pepeketua (New Zealand frog) quietly rests on his hand.

While gnomes are commonly identified with cute and kitsch garden ornaments, they have a rich and complex history. The word gnome originates from the Greek gnosis, meaning knowledge. Gnomes were closely associated with the science of alchemy, and were thought to be guardians of minerals and metals.

This bronze gnome stands as a thoughtful guardian of his surroundings. A hero of the wise philosophers of everyday life, the monumental figure is both ridiculous and sublime.

Palmerston North Public Sculpture Trust Website