Giant reef inspired artwork completes $30m Skygate expansion
A new outdoor playscape featuring giant colourful fish inspired by Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef has been unveiled as the finishing touch to Brisbane Airport Corporation’s (BAC) $30 million Skygate expansion.
The child-friendly artwork by Cairns artist Brian Robinson is located at the new entrance of the DFO development which includes 30 new DFO stores, alfresco dining, offices and a multi-level car park.
Julieanne Alroe, BAC CEO and Managing Director, said the new artwork complements Brisbane Airport's extensive collection of public art displayed throughout the grounds and terminals which is believed to be the largest of its kind in Australia.
“Major art pieces can really transform public spaces and we’ve found that the millions of passengers and visitors travelling to and through the airport every year really appreciate and engage with the artworks on display.
“From the recently unveiled 750 metre long ‘Sensory Hug’ by the late Mrs Sally Gabori in the International Terminal Arrival’s Hall and the nine-storey kinetic façade adorning our Domestic Terminal car park, to ‘Keep the Sunshine’ by Sebastian Moody, each of these pieces shares a story about our city or state.
“It is a great honour to have Brian Robinson’s colourful creation showcasing the beauty of Queensland’s world-famous Great Barrier Reef as part of Brisbane Airport’s collection.”
Titled, ‘Woven Wonders of the Reef’ the artwork provides an interesting structure for children to interact with adding an element of surprise and delight for shoppers and visitors.
It is a perfect addition to the growing Skygate precinct with the extended Corso pedestrian area providing a relaxing environment which will soon host a further five new alfresco dining options.
Artist Brian Robinson said his creation was inspired by his childhood on Thursday Island.
“In the far north, Torres Strait Islander people weave coconut palm leaves to make shapes including the Angel fish,” Mr Robinson said.
“Woven Wonders of the Reef’ represents the many colourful schools of fish species in the waters around north Queensland.
“It offers children the experience of interacting with the Great Barrier Reef, one of the richest, most complex and diverse systems in the world, without getting their feet wet,” he said.
Brian’s work has been collected both privately and through major institutions in Australia and overseas.
The Skygate precinct is Brisbane Airport’s retail, lifestyle and commercial hub, home to Queensland’s first 24-hour Woolworths, DFO, Golf Central, Novotel Brisbane Airport and a range of speciality stores.
For more information about Skygate visit skygate.com.au.