Flowstate Is South Bank's Luminous New Temporary Creative Space

It'll feature a glowing arc-like LED installation, workshops and a year-long program of free events.
Sarah Ward
January 30, 2018

Thirty years since Expo 88 lit up the Brisbane River's southern banks, the area we all know as South Bank still has a few luminous tricks up its sleeves. Flowstate is one of them, a new temporary creative space taking over the former Arbour View Café precinct, featuring an immersive digital art installation, an open-air performance pavilion and a grassy relaxation zone.

It's the first aspect, JEM by design studio ENESS, that'll immediately capture the city's attention — and have Brisbanites rushing to the South Brisbane parklands. A glowing arc-like structure fashioned from LEDs, it responds to movement, meaning that everyone can influence its display of light and sound. Or, to put it another way, it emits a symphonic and visual experience when approached.

In addition to JEM's eye-catching wonders, the 3000-square-metre space will also boast an array of performances, including a year-long free program during its first year of operation. On the just-announced 20-show-plus bill: CIRCA showing off their acrobatic skills in Aura, Dead Puppet Society unleashing their roving installation Megafauna and live, immersive, moonlit orchestra event Song to the Earth. Other highlights include participatory dance performance Planets, South Bank art tour What I'm Here For, and whispered storytelling from Brisbane writers, poets and artists in These Frozen Moments.

Also on offer are talks, classes and workshops, from an evolving lineup that features Magda Szubanski, Luke Ryan and Margi Brown Ash. And, because South Bank's grassy areas are made for relaxing, Flowstate Green will host a resident DJ set every Friday evening.

Officially opening on January 29, Flowstate has been planned as interim-use site by Australian architecture and performance design firm Stukel Stone. It's intended to be in place for between 18 months and three years.

Find Flowstate at South Bank Parklands near the Epicurious Garden, and visit flowstate.southbankcorporation.com.au for further information.

Image: Tony Gwynn Jones.

Published on January 30, 2018 by Sarah Ward
Tap and select Add to Home Screen to access Concrete Playground easily next time. x