The Queensland Cultural Centre (QCC), designed by Robin Gibson, is intrinsic to the urban fabric of Brisbane, forming the backdrop of the city for the last four decades. As the city heads toward the world stage for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, we reflect on this iconic precinct and its role in shaping the city’s identity.The Queensland Art Gallery opened first in 1982, followed by the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in 1985, Queensland Museum in 1986, and State Library of Queensland in 1988. The addition of the Playhouse Theatre completed Gibson’s original masterplan in 1998. In 2015, the four original buildings were state heritage-listed. The 2006 Millennium Library Project, celebrating 20 years in 2026, transformed and renewed the Library for a new century, and in 2026, QPAC entered a new chapter with the addition of the Glasshouse Theatre. Designed by Brisbane’s own Blight Rayner, in partnership with Snøhetta, its undulating façade brings a new vernacular to South Bank, and the broader cultural precinct.Through four decades of alterations, renovations, and additions - all while showcasing local and worldwide talent - QCC has continued to evolve as one of Brisbane’s most significant public precincts. Its enduring legacy invites us to consider several questions: what defines a successful public building? How do we ensure modern icons remain protected amid rapid urban growth, and what does that process look like? And how should new additions respond to this significant heritage context?About Our Speakers:Don Watson - Architect Don is a well-known Queensland architect who has had a diverse career encompassing university teaching, research, advocacy and practice including as a member of the Queensland Department of Public Works. He has researched key aspects of the local architectural tradition and in particular the lives and work of architects to have practised in Queensland. He is an adjunct professor in the School of Architecture Design and Planning at the University of Queensland and has won awards including the Australian Institute of Architects Robin Boyd Award in 1989 and its Gold Medal in 2021.Michael Rayner - Architect Michael is a director of Blight Rayner Architecture with Jayson Blight. His recent awards include the Brisbane Lord Mayor's Lifetime Achievement Award, the Australian Urban Design Champion Award and the Property Council of Australia Queensland Industry Impact Award. Notable Blight Rayner projects include the Glasshouse Theatre, the Kangaroo Point Bridge, and the National Rugby Training Centre at Ballymore. Michael is an Adjunct Professor at The University of Queensland and Griffith University, a Board member of the Property Industry Foundation for homeless youth, City Centre Advisor to Brisbane City Council, and a member of the Queensland Urban Design and Places Panel.Grace Liu - GOMA Grace's path to exhibition design combines formal training in interior design and architecture with over a decade of architectural practice in Brisbane. She believes art and architecture are intrinsically connected, with thoughtfully designed spaces capable of evoking emotion and shaping meaningful experiences in much the same way art works. Since joining QAGOMA in 2012, she has collaborated with many internationally renowned artists – most recently with Olafur Eliasson studio for the exhibition Presence, helping to realise ambitious artistic visions through immersiveexhibition environments. Her experience highlights the importance of research, collaboration, technical problem- solving and project management in transforming creative concepts into engaging public experiences.Megan Franks - GOMA Megan has been registered as an architect for over 10 years and working in exhibition design for the past 8 years. Her practice bridges architecture, art, and public experience. Beginning with bespoke homes and high-rise residential projects, she later transitioned into the cultural sector, drawn to the unique challenge of transforming artistic ideas into spatial experiences. She collaborates closely with artists, curators, and institutions to create temporary architectures that communicate stories, foster engagement, and bring creative visions to life. Through thoughtful design, she seeks to craft memorable environments that connect people with art and create meaningful experiences beyond the gallery walls.Presented by State Library of Queensland with the Emerging Architects and Graduate Network (EmAGN) and Brisbane Open House.Subscribe to be the first to know about our future events.Please consult our conditions of entry and Ticketing Terms and Conditions before making your booking.We respect your privacy. Personal information we collect is used only for our internal activities and functions (Libraries Act 1988 (Qld)) and will not be disclosed unless required by law. For more information, please read State Library's privacy statement.The views expressed by the speakers are their own and the promotion of products/services is not endorsed by State Library.
