Florentijn Hofman: Messengers of Brisbane

Overview

Brisbanites, it's time to go birdwatching — but not in the usual manner. You're looking for one type of winged creature. You're trying to spot the only six of them in the city, in fact. They're giant and perched atop Brissie landmarks, however, so they shouldn't be too difficult to locate.

One of Brisbane Festival's literally big 2020 inclusions, Messengers of Brisbane is comprised of a half-dozen Gouldian finches, all towering over the likes of the Goodwill Bridge, the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, Queensland Museum, South Bank, Brisbane Powerhouse and Brisbane City Hall. They're colourful, they can be seen whether you're walking, driving, cycling or on a CityCat, and they're another of the fest's arty pieces — like Hiromi Tango's Rainbow Circles (Healing Circles) and Brainbow Magic — that's designed to add some cheer to this year.

Messengers of Brisbane is also the latest large-scale art work by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman, who is known for placing oversized animals in iconic spots. If you've seen footage of his massive inflatable Rubber Duck sculpture, then you'll know why you should be getting excited.

Messengers of Brisbane is on display until Saturday, September 26.

Images: Atmosphere Photography.