Tea and Me
ON DISPLAY
Tea and Me
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What feels more Queensland than catching up for a chat and a cuppa? While tea arrived on Queensland shores with a distinctly colonial flavour, the concept of infusing plants for health and happiness has been part of First Nations life for generations, and a vital part of so many other cultural communities who now call Queensland home.
To celebrate this idea, in 2011 we asked Queenslanders to tell us what a cup of tea meant to them, through a project called Tea & Me. We received hundreds of stories from across the state, and even some actual teacups and sets.
These donated sets are now on display throughout Queensland Terrace. From the finest bone china to an enamel pannikin stained brown with billy tea, they tell the stories of people families and businesses from all over the state.
Explore the stories below.
Queensland Terrace: history and design
Queensland Terrace opened to the public in 2006, designed by architectural firms Donovan Hill and Peddle Thorp and led by architect Timothy Hill FRAIA.
It was built as part of the Millenium Library Project: a full refurbishment and extension of State Library of Queensland, doubling the size of the South Bank building, designed by Robin Gibson in 1988.
Queensland Terrace was intentionally designed as a uniquely Queensland space, with the outdoors bought indoors, and the formality of a ‘great room’ blending into the warmth of a sunny verandah. Even the walls – like cabinets in a welcoming Queensland living room – hold special tea sets.
Today, State Library welcomes thousands of people to Queensland Terrace every year for events, receptions, functions and weddings.
As a public space, we welcome equally those just seeking a quiet moment, a shelter from the rain or sun, or to catch up with friends.
“The wonderful thing about a library is that it is one of the most public institutions we have in our society; where people can gather together as citizens rather than just customers. Libraries are social, community and meeting places, as well as learning centres.” – Timothy Hill
Queensland Terrace is proudly supported by the Dowling Family. In recognition, memory and honour of John Keith Dowling MBE.
