Letterbox Love: A Creative Tribute to Richmond’s Red Zone History

At a recent Christchurch City Council meeting, community advocate Hayley Guglietta and Richmond woodworker Stephan took the podium to express gratitude for the Council’s support of the Richmond Community Garden’s unique Letterbox Competition—a creative initiative that breathed new life into discarded objects from the red-zoned neighbourhoods.

During the deputation, Hayley introduced Stephan’s standout sculpture titled “Letterbox Love”, a deeply symbolic piece made from old letterboxes salvaged from homes demolished after the earthquakes. The boxes were flipped upside down and planted with greenery, representing the upheaval experienced by former residents—lives literally and figuratively turned upside down. The work resonated with the community, winning People’s Choice in the competition.

Hayley used the opportunity not only to thank the Council but also to advocate for the permanent incorporation of Stephan’s artwork into public space—proposing it serve as a lasting tribute to the resilience and creativity of the Richmond community.

The moment was a touching example of how art, memory, and grassroots collaboration can shape a more compassionate and reflective urban landscape.