World Expo 88 30th Anniversary — Public Art Trail

A free retrospective art trail that travels across Brisbane.
Melanie Colwell
May 10, 2018

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Overview

Back in 1988, as part of an ongoing mission to elevate Brisbane's standing on the world stage, the city hosted a World Expo. The event, featuring exhibits and entertainment from more than 50 nations and corporations, spanned over six months and was considered a huge cultural success. Over 90 artworks were loaned, gifted or commissioned and displayed throughout the site reflecting the theme of 'leisure in the age of technology'.

This year marks the event's 30th anniversary. And to celebrate, the council is hosting a dazzling retrospective public art trail. A number of sculptures — many of them pieces that have been restored or relocated from the original 88 exhibition — have be placed throughout the CBD and parklands for residents to explore.

Among the pieces featured in the trail are Peter D Cole's Man and Matter series — 12 red steel sculptures installed along Kangaroo Point Cliffs Boardwalk — and The Human Factor, a series that was created by Brisbane's Artbusters and originally displayed at the World Expo's 88 site. For the anniversary, the latter has been re-cast with fibreglass and the figures, which include 'The Juggler' and 'The Trapeze Artist', have been dotted throughout King George Square, Brisbane Botanic Gardens and Southbank House.

Meanwhile, Forme del Mito, a bronze series created by renowned Italian sculptor Arnaldo Pomodoro, has been restored and relocated to the top of Edward Street for the 30th anniversary event.

The art trail is self-guided — you can find a map on the Brisbane City Council website along with details on each of the artworks.

Information

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