Brisbane set for public art boom with $2.8 million investment

Brisbane, February 26 (Australia India News Newsdesk)

Brisbane’s public spaces are set to become even more vibrant, with millions of dollars in investment as part of the South East Queensland City Deal Public Art Initiative. The initiative, funded through the SEQ Liveability Fund, will provide $2.8 million for murals, sculptures, and other public art across the city.

Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner emphasized the impact of public art in shaping Brisbane’s identity and boosting tourism. “Public art can be a tourism drawcard, and this is an opportunity to invest further in new public art in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games,” he said.

“Brisbane is Australia’s lifestyle capital, and I want to make our city even better by further activating our public spaces.”

The funding deal, a collaboration between the Australian Government, State Government, and South East Queensland mayors, is expected to enhance Brisbane’s public art scene. It will build upon successful initiatives like the Outdoor Gallery, Artforce Brisbane, and the Street Art Wall program.

Brisbane’s first-ever Street Artist in Residence, Matt Tervo, highlighted the cultural significance of public art. “Public art is a powerful tool for teaching visitors about the identity of Brisbane. Large, bold imagery can transcend language or cultural barriers to proudly tell people what Brisbane is about,” he said.

“Our city’s mural industry is flourishing, and Brisbane artists are now recognized across Australia and the globe for their talent.”

With public art known to drive tourism—as seen in Penang Street Art, Melbourne’s laneways, and Montreal’s Saint-Laurent Boulevard—this investment aims to position Brisbane as a global creative hub. Local artists are encouraged to get involved, with the Council’s Creative Register now open for sign-ups. The grant application process will soon open, inviting expressions of interest from the creative sector to develop concepts for three major projects.

Mayor Schrinner reinforced the city’s commitment to fostering creativity: “We look forward to working with our local artists to make Brisbane more liveable and our lifestyle even better through these new public art installations.”