When locals say that Brisbane has a thriving arts scene, they’re usually talking about performing arts. Yet the Queensland capital has some of the best visual art in the country, and there is no better way to explore it than to follow one of the four art trails in Brisbane.
Art and the River
The Art and the River Public Trail is broken into three sections, though as it only covers 2.5 kilometers, it’s entirely possible to walk the trail in a day, stopping at other local attractions or for a picnic lunch along the way – the Maritime Museum in particular is a popular detour. The Art and the River Trail begins at the Kangaroo Point Boardwalk under the Story Bridge, winding past the Afterlife River Centre, Thornton St. Ferry Terminal and Kangaroo Point Park.
The Art and the River Trail showcase twelve installations, some of which have been in place for almost twenty years. Artworks include ‘Biomechanical Pelicans,’ a pair of stylised pelican sculptures; ‘Reflections at Midday,’ a sundial complete with astrological symbols; ‘Flickering Wind Generator;’ ‘Seven Versions of the Sun,’ a series of viewing platforms; and ‘Wormholes.’
Contemporary Art and Architecture
The Contemporary Art and Architecture Public Trail is situated within the CBD, and the artworks are integrated with building design, often located in building foyers, facades, or laneways. The Contemporary Art and Architecture Trail is the newest trail, with most artworks installed post 2008.
Artworks include ‘Infinity Forest,’ a picture which reflects the skyscrapers around it; ‘Trickle,’ in the foyer of 400 George St, which is constructed from domestic objects; ‘Eyes are Singing Out,’ symbolising omnipotence and enlightenment; ‘Waterography;’ and ‘Shades of Green,’ a 44-meter sequence of screen printed panels.
Cultural Heritage
Situated around the heart of the city’s historic plazas and squares, the Cultural Heritage Public Art Trail celebrates Brisbane’s history. Beginning at King George Square and ending at St Stephens Cathedral, the Cultural Heritage Trail is only 1.3 kilometers long, but mixes historic, heritage-listed and contemporary installations to demonstrate the story of Brisbane.
Artworks include ‘Speakers Corner,’ which depicts three key figures of Queensland’s history; ‘Lions,’ mimicking the common symbol of British heraldry; ‘Petrie Tableau,’ which acknowledges the pioneer families of Brisbane; the World War II Memorial; a bronze statue of Major General Sir William Glasgow, who was one of Queensland’s most distinguished WWI officers; and ‘River of Stone.’
World Expo ‘88
The World Expo ’88 Public Art Trail was established to commemorate the 25th anniversary of World Expo ’88. The trail consists of eleven artworks commissioned for the expo, arranged within walking distance of the Brisbane CBD, Mt. Coot-tha and Boondall.
Artworks include ‘Continuous Division;’ ‘Forme de Mito,’ telling the story of the historical figure Agamemnon, the optical illusion piece ‘Mirage;’ ‘Night Companion;’ ‘Morning Star II;’ the ‘Man and Matter’ series; and ‘Showdown.’
