Longreach goes for art in riverbank precinct revamp
Richard Dinnen - Queensland Editor |
It’s being hailed as a colourful masterpiece and it tends to confirm the contemporary view that art can be anything, anywhere.
It’s a dazzling mural painted on a pipeline across the old Thomson River Bridge in Longreach, created by a team of students from the Griffith University Queensland College of Art.
It’s one of a series of projects to improve facilities along a four-kilometre stretch of the river, launched by Longreach Regional Council in 2020 to create attractions for the local community and visitors.
Mayor Tony Rayner said the design was created in consultation with the community to reflect the history and future of the region.
“We’re excited to see the transformation of this pipeline, and we are proud that we have been able to partner with Griffith University to turn a piece of otherwise plain infrastructure into a beautiful and useful amenity for the community.
“It’s a partnership we’re interested in growing, because we see potential for good outcomes for the community and students alike.”
The old bridge was replaced by a new road bridge in 2001 but continues to operate as a pedestrian bridge.
Queensland College of Art lecturer, Simon Degroot, said Griffith University welcomed opportunities to help regional communities make improvements.
“We were delighted to work with everyone from the local area to help inform the design, as well as giving our students the experience of installing public art in a real-world setting.
“Collaborating with regional communities to develop a program of creative activities is a meaningful way to connect and share cultural and creative knowledge.
“Through projects like this, we are working together as co-creators for mutually beneficial creative outcomes that are socially and culturally relevant.”
