UQ recently celebrated the launch of the new UQ Brisbane City campus at 308 Queen Street. The artworks on display at this location were carefully chosen from the UQ Art Collection to enrich the experiences of everyone using these spaces. They are powerful works that complement the historical significance of the building and also reflect the creativity and collaboration for which these spaces will now be known.
This heritage listed building has become a co-working and collaboration place for alumni, government and business to engage and connect. It was originally the site of the National Australia Bank and has been carefully restored as part of UQ’s ongoing commitment to the preservation of Queensland’s history and enriching its future.
308 Queen Street has important connections to the colonial history of Brisbane. It was designed by Francis Drummond Greville Stanley and built between 1881 and 1924. It is a significant example of the Classical Revival style.
Artworks on display
To counterbalance the historical weight of the building and its past, works of art were chosen to recognise the artistic contribution of First Nations people in Brisbane and Queensland, in recognition of the traditional custodians of the land on which UQ Brisbane City stands, and in reflection of the University’s commitment to reconciliation.
The works chosen were Mirdidingkingathi Juwarnda Sally Gabori’s Dingkarri (2008), Elizabeth ‘Queenie” Giblet’s Atapa Mukana, Tchununchi Mukana (Big river, small river) (2008), Carlene West’s Tjitjiti (2013), and Minnie Pwerle’s Awelye Atnwengerrp (2002). These very significant works by major Australian female artists reassert the importance of recognising the legacy of First Nations artists as the first creators. While singular in style and approach as well as subject matter, each painting speaks to the importance of Country in First Nations art and culture.
Learn more about the UQ Brisbane City campus.
