Brian Robinson

Brian Robinson is of the Kala Lagaw Ya and Wuthathi language groups of the Torres Strait and Cape York Peninsula. He is a multitalented contemporary artist whose work seamlessly blends painting, printmaking, sculpture, and design, all while drawing inspiration from his Torres Strait Islander heritage. Based in Cairns, Robinson's artistic journey is characterised by a captivating interplay between reality and fantasy, reflecting the rich mythology, legends, and traditional motifs of his culture. His dynamic creations have garnered significant acclaim, with pieces featured in private collections and major institutions both within Australia and internationally, establishing him as a prominent figure in the contemporary art landscape.

Collaborating with the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and the Queensland Government, Robinson's artistic vision has contributed significantly to the Glasshouse Theatre. His work stands as a vital tribute to the cultural knowledge and narratives of the First Nations peoples, specifically honouring the Turrbal and Jagera lands. As a centrepiece of the venue, Robinson's sculpture invites interaction and engagement, fostering connections among Brisbane residents, domestic travellers, and international visitors alike. This remarkable piece weaves First Nations culture into the very essence of the venue, promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation for Indigenous perspectives and history.

As the Glasshouse Theatre’s Art Project Manager, we collaborated with Blaklash, a First Nations design studio, to develop the EOI call-out and artist selection process. We worked closely with panels of subject matter experts, including the project’s Art First Nations Selection Panel and the specialist advisors, which consisted of prominent Queensland-based arts leaders, artists, curators, and First Nations representatives. This group provided guidance on artist shortlisting and commissioning. Together with Blaklash, we also assisted in the artist briefing, contracting, and artwork concept development processes. Ultimately, we managed the commissioned artwork design development, fabrication, and installation for the winning artist, Brian Robinson.

With UAP as the Public Art Manager, ’Floriate’ began with Brian’s exquisite drawings from which UAP’s Design and Pattern Making teams developed the mode with a robotically milled polystyrene pattern, which served as the foundation for a unique creation. Our pattern-making department refined and finished the pattern, then skinned the surface with Lino to mimic Robinson’s typical 2D carving practice in 3D. Robinson then carved unique minaral (designs) into the surfaces, enhancing the pattern's visual appeal and adding intricate details that infused it with energy. Once perfected, the finished patterns prepared for casting and moulded.

The flower elements were sculpted digitally based on Brian Robinson’s sketches and 3D printed at full scale. The flowers are constructed in layers, with individual petals, stamens and leaves. The most complex flower, the Sally Wattle, is made of 547 individual handmade components. The forms, cast in bronze, exude timeless elegance, while the selected flower elements, also cast in bronze, add a natural, organic touch to the piece. The internal structure is designed with galvanised steel, ensuring durability and stability. All the cast surfaces of the flowers were sanded to achieve a luxurious satin finish, while leaving the natural cast finish in the carved lines to create contrast and textural interest. The carvings in the spiral body were patinaed with a chocolate brown patina and then the surface was sanded with the same care, ensuring a harmonious aesthetic throughout the artwork.