Ipswich City Council has been provided funding under the South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal Public Art Initiatives program and is seeking artists, designers, partnerships or consortiums of artists who are interested in creating public art projects for the city.

Council is seeking expressions of interest for public art commissions in four unique locations across the city. These locations have been selected as they all adhere to the SEQ City Deal guidelines, meet the objectives of the fund and would enhance existing projects.


This Public Art Initiative is a commitment under the $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal between the Australian Government, Queensland Government, and the Council of Mayors (SEQ). It is designed to enhance place-making and promote a more livable SEQ through Public Art and Architecture.

Public Art Locations

Artist Brief

More information on each of the four locations can be seen below by expanding each of the sections listed.

Ipswich City Council invites artists to create a contemporary sculpture for the Cultural Heart project. This installation will reflect the fusion of new and old Ipswich, embodying the city’s rich cultural heritage while embracing its modern evolution.

Located in d’Arcy Doyle Place, as part of the cultural precinct near the Ipswich Art Gallery, nestled between the Nicholas Street Precinct and the Ipswich Civic Centre, the sculpture should respond to its vibrant surroundings and serve as a subtle wayfinding piece.

Innovative proposals are requested that celebrate Ipswich’s unique identity and cultural legacy, creating a landmark that inspires residents and visitors alike.

Ipswich City Council is inviting artists to reimagine and transform the decommissioned terraced water feature at River Heart Parklands into a compelling artwork. This new piece should acknowledge the power and impact of floods on the city, reflecting both the trauma and the resilience of the community in the face of these natural disasters.

Artists are encouraged to create works that respond to the Bremer River and the effects of flooding. The artwork can take various forms, including murals, 3D sculptures, etchings, botanical installations, or a combination of these. However, it is crucial that the artwork is designed to be resilient to future flooding, ensuring its longevity and continued relevance. The new installation should not only commemorate past flood events but also inspire fresh perspectives on the city’s history and its ongoing recovery efforts.

The theme of resilience should be central to the artwork, highlighting the strength and determination of the Ipswich community as they continue to rebuild and adapt to their ever-changing environment.

Ipswich City Council invites artists to create captivating public art sculptures that harmonise with the natural surroundings of Bremervale Park in Raceview. This project aims to enhance the visitor experience as they explore the future ephemeral wetlands. The council envisions artwork that integrates seamlessly with the environment, enriching the visitor experience by telling a part of Ipswich's unique story. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from Ipswich's vibrant ecosystem and create pieces that resonate with themes of nature, conservation, and community.

The goal is to create artwork that not only enhances the park's aesthetic appeal but also serves an educational purpose, highlighting the importance of wetlands and their role in the ecosystem. These sculptures should reflect the beauty and diversity of the local flora and fauna, fostering a deeper connection between visitors and the natural world. This initiative aims to make Bremervale Park a cherished destination for all, where art and nature coexist in harmony, offering a space for reflection, learning and enjoyment.

Ipswich City Council invites artists to create an art piece for Tallegalla Cemetery, as part of its upgrade. This historic cemetery, with its stunning vistas, offers a serene and reflective environment. The artwork should recognise the past and be respectful to those visiting, providing a prompt for contemplation and remembrance. The art form can encompass various elements but preference is for a 3D sculpture that is resilient to the weather.

This piece will serve as a meaningful addition, enhancing the space’s contemplative nature and honouring the memories of those laid to rest. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from the cemetery’s rich history and natural beauty, creating a work that resonates with themes of remembrance, peace, and reflection. The goal is to create an artwork that not only enhances the beauty of the cemetery but also deepens the emotional connection visitors feel to this sacred space, further making it a cherished part of the community.

Budget

Indicative budgets should be between $35,000 and $650,000.

This large variation in budget will allow for a variety of proposals from various artists at different stages of their career. It will also allow for different projects of size and scale to be considered for the locations listed above.

Artists will be required to provide indicative costings under three sections:

  • Artist/s and administration fees
  • Materials, fabrication and installation
  • Contingency.

Once final concepts are received, The Ipswich Public Art Advisory Group will provide recommendations on how the funding will be split between projects. This means that small – medium installations could be recommended at multiple locations or it could be that the investment is made into one significant piece.

Additional Support for Emerging Artists

To support emerging artists or visual artists who are interested in submitting a proposal but have limited experience with sculpture or public art, Ipswich City Council recommends submitting applications in partnership with more experienced practitioners. These could include existing public artists, professional fabricators, project managers, or public art consultants. Below is a non-exhaustive list to assist you with your search:

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Courtney Strow

Coordinator, Creative Industries Development

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