This work is one of several that were commissioned for Wellington’s Civic Square redevelopment in the early 1990s. Originally located in the pools between City Gallery Wellington and the Central Library, the work has since been painted over.

In 1998, a Wellington City Council publication on the new library building, 'Opening windows on the wide world' highlighted the soothing qualities of water: “In line with current trends in library design overseas, two decorative ponds adjoin the wavy wall, providing a pleasant vista for those inside and a quiet place to sit for passers-by.”

"Robèrt Franken painted all the pools that form the water features around the square. The pools located between the Art Gallery and the Library do not have a label, but depict a snake or eel with faces. 'The Sun Sets the Stage to the Day' are other pools at the Civic Square edge of the alley between the Town Hall and the Michael Fowler Centre. The design for these pools are based on a theme of the events and activities that take place in the square and the Michael Fowler Centre."

Source: Virginia Douglas, ‘Public Art in the Civic Square’, c.1999

Franken was invited by Claire Athfield to complete the murals.

See also:

• Naga, Protecting the Ancient Knowledge, Robert Franken | Wellington City Libraries

• Virginia Douglas, ‘Public Art in the Civic Square’ (Victoria University of Wellington, c.1999). Courtesy: Wellington City Council Archives.

• Commissions | Robèrt Franken [artist’s website]