Renowned art figure Philip Bacon praised artist Lindy Lee as one of Australia’s greatest sculptors, highlighting the significance of her work, Being Swallowed by the Milky Way, at Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane. He emphasized the public accessibility of the sculpture and the impact it will have on the cityscape, describing it as being on another level in terms of scale, beauty, and technique. The Star Brisbane chief executive Daniel Finch also expressed excitement about the unveiling of the masterpiece, believing that it will enhance Brisbane’s cultural reputation and become a must-visit attraction in its own right.
Inspired by her childhood in Brisbane, Lee’s sculpture was revealed just over a week before the partial opening of the Queen’s Wharf precinct on August 29. The gradual opening will continue throughout the year, including public spaces like the Neville Bonner Bridge, Miller Park, and Sky Deck, as well as various bars and restaurants. Additionally, The Star Grand hotel, event center, and terrace dining establishments are expected to open during the initial phase of the precinct’s unveiling, coinciding with the launch of the Brisbane Festival.
As part of the phased opening, public spaces will be among the first areas to welcome visitors, in celebration of Brisbane’s largest party, the Brisbane Festival. However, the Sky Deck, anticipated to be a prime viewing spot for Riverfire, will not be open to the public for this year’s event on August 31. Despite this, the overall response to the Lindy Lee sculpture and the forthcoming Queen’s Wharf precinct opening has been positive, with expectations high for the impact it will have on the city’s cultural landscape.
Overall, the commissioning of Lee’s sculpture at Queen’s Wharf represents a significant moment for Brisbane’s public art scene, with industry experts and city officials praising its beauty, scale, and unique presence. The unveiling of the sculpture marks the beginning of a phased opening for the precinct, which will introduce a range of new public spaces, dining options, and entertainment venues to the city. This development is expected to elevate Brisbane’s cultural standing and create a must-visit destination for residents and tourists alike, setting a new standard for public art in the city’s urban landscape.
