Originally decorating a drinking fountain at the playground in Pukekura Park in 1960, the steel sculpture "Cats" was designed by well-known New Plymouth artist, Don Driver (1930 - 2011). The initial installation and the paddling pool (Taranaki Herald 24 September 1960) alongside was funded by the New Plymouth Jaycees.
"Cats" was restored by conservator, Detlef Klein in the 2000s and the original is now held in the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery collection.
This replica, made by Klein, was installed in October 2013 for the opening of the upgraded playground.
Don Driver (1930 - 2011)
Donald (Don) Sinclair Driver, one of New Zealand’s most important 20th-century artists, was born in Hawke’s Bay in 1930. His family moved to New Plymouth in 1943 where he was educated at New Plymouth Boys’ High School.
He started work as a dental technician and began his art career during the 1950s.
His work was often controversial and challenging and always attracted national attention. In 1969 he joined the staff of New Plymouth’s newly-established Govett-Brewster Art Gallery where he worked for 24 years.
During that time Driver firmly established himself as a leading New Zealand artist. He has an impressive exhibitions history, has received many prestigious awards, and his work is represented in public and private collections both nationwide and abroad.
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