Artwork in our Gardens

Guest Blogger: Alison Smith - Volunteer Guide, City Botanic Gardens

The City Botanic Gardens is similar to most other gardens you might visit, there is artwork here that complements the surrounds. In a little niche, just near the Rotunda, is Building Blocks of Life, one of two sandstone pieces displayed, the other being the Sundial, enclosed in the hibiscus garden. If you are looking for a bronze sculpture we have Big Red, lying under a tree near the kiosk on Residents Hill. You could have a seat while petting the platypus on the Love Seat close to the Edward Street entrance.

Remember Expo 88? The stainless steel Morning Star 2 on the lawn adjacent to Parliament House and Plant Form on the river bank might bring back some fond memories. Jemmy Morrell and the Brolgas, reminds us of our past and Jemmy can be seen in all his glory in the lily pond near the rainforest.

Although not artwork as such, the steps down to the river from the Bunya Avenue are worth a look. The southern-most ones were built from the bricks of the demolished Government House Lodge while the other two sets of steps show us what the old geological society building was built with. Our Gardens believed in recycling.

Why not go and explore?

Alison Smith - Volunteer Guide, City Botanic Gardens