The artwork is inspired by the idea that perspective shapes everything we understand. It takes a playful approach, using humour and simple storytelling to invite people to see both the world—and each other—a little differently. At its centre is a cat with a curious and humorous expression, looking directly at passersby. This creates an immediate sense of interaction, as if the cat is sharing a moment with the viewer.
The gentle turning of the cat’s head is a key part of the message. It suggests that sometimes, all it takes is a small shift in how we look at something to understand it in a completely new way. This idea extends beyond observation into relationships and everyday life, encouraging us to pause before settling on a single interpretation and to remain open to other ways of seeing.
From this idea of shifting perspective comes a second layer: empathy. The work gently reminds us that our point of view is only one among many, and that others may experience the same moment differently, with their own valid understanding of it. It encourages a more open and curious way of engaging with people and situations, where listening and considering other perspectives becomes just as important as our own.
One side of the design shows a fish swimming against the direction of the school, symbolising individuality, independence, uniqueness and originality. It reflects the freedom to follow the crowd as well as the confidence to move in one’s own direction. This idea is intentionally linked to the cat’s gesture of shifting perspective—together they speak about both thinking differently and being different, and how both are valuable in shaping identity and understanding.
The narrative continues with contrasting fish imagery, adding a subtle sense of storytelling and visual rhythm while keeping the overall composition clear and accessible. Within this visual world, each character can be understood as experiencing the same moment from a different point of view—the cat, the school of fish, and the individual fish all sharing the same space, yet each living a slightly different version of the story depending on where they are positioned. This creates a playful reminder that meaning is not fixed, but shaped by perspective.
The composition is supported by a restrained and considered use of colour, used only where needed to highlight key elements and maintain clarity within a busy urban setting.
Overall, through humour, simplicity, and layered storytelling, the design transforms a functional utility cabinet into a memorable public artwork. It brings warmth and character into the streetscape while encouraging people to pause, smile, and reflect on how shifting perspective can open the door to greater empathy, understanding, and appreciation of different ways of seeing the world.
Karolina Serrano is a multidisciplinary artist whose creative path was shaped early on within a family of over 60 painters, where storytelling and artistic expression coloured everyday life. Passionate about the role of art in fostering healing and belonging, Karolina has led creative initiatives with migrants and former refugees. She also designs hand-painted jewellery and accessories, carrying the spirit of her heritage into wearable art.
As the Cultural Navigator for Shared Communities Whakatū Nelson, Karolina was the project manager for the Nile St Wall. This is just one of 64 community-led projects that were delivered by 27 migrant and former refugee communities, including festivals, films, workshops, celebrations, exhibitions, and performances. These projects were hosted across various venues, from small-scale workshops to large public events.
Follow Karolina on Facebook and Instagram.
Click here to see the ArtBox that Karolina painted for the Theatre Royal.
ArtBoxes is a joint project with Arts Council Nelson.
Huge thanks to NEL (Nelson Electricity Limited) for supporting our artists to transform their boxes!
