Net

Net is a stainless steel sculpture which adorns an outside wall at the entrance to the Neville Bonner Building at 75 William St. As part of a public art commission in 1998, the artist Barbara Heath has again demonstrated her significant jewellery skills by creating this large interlinked set of rings. These form the shape of an elongated cylinder running down the side of the building.

The Neville Bonner Building recognises the contribution to Australian public life of former Senator, Neville Bonner, AO. It is a permanent reminder of Mr Bonner's distinguished career and contribution to Queensland and Australia. Neville Bonner was the first Indigenous Australian to be elected to the Parliament of Australia. In reading reviews at the time, my interpretation is that this sculpture refers to related themes of the area's original indigenous inhabitants including interconnectedness with the land and river, and their associated fishing practices, hence "net".

Barbara is certainly active throughout the Brisbane artistic community with both her work as sculptor and jeweller. I find it refreshing that not only does she do great work which earns her an income, but that she actively pursues public art and design projects. This, to me, allows her to give back to the community and allows us all to appreciate her craft. I've also had the pleasure of being in communication with one of her colleagues Malcolm Enright who has provided valuable insight into her work, as well as providing further resources on the wonderful city that we live in.

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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A tree a rock a cloud

Outside Central Plaza Two, on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Creek Street is the sculpture 'a tree a rock a cloud'. Designed by now Brisbane sculptor Barbara Heath, it was installed in 2000. The associated plaque reads that the sculpture is combining symbols of the world around us while reflecting aspects of the innovation and achievements of business.

After being born in Sydney and then studying her craft in Melbourne, Barbara moved to Brisbane to set up her studio in 1983. It would seem she's been here ever since, and is a fascinating artist on the Brisbane scene with fantastic jewellery works and design. A self professed Jeweller to the Lost, she has exhibited many times in Brisbane, Queensland and internationally.

The picture above doesn't quite do the design justice, and with the water restrictions in Brisbane at present, there is currently no associated water feature with the sculpture. The angle also didn't quite capture the colour of the cloud part of the sculpture as much as I would have liked. This is another classic example of sculpture in the city which although not immediately grabbing your attention, will cause you to reflect on its themes once you do!

Cheers, I Love Brisbane, Wes.

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