Residents of Kangaroo Point are walking past a permanent outdoor gallery where traffic signal boxes capture everything from the recent history of the pandemic to playful nods to the suburb’s name.
Capturing the Moment
The artwork on the streets of Kangaroo Point often serves as a time capsule for the community. Astra Ellis’s piece, “COVID Gabba Lights,” documents a specific moment in local history, referencing the nearby stadium and the unique atmosphere of the past few years. Nearby, Nadir Runkovski explores narrative themes with “Freedom – a tale of two cities.”
These works turn standard utility boxes into storytelling devices, allowing locals to reflect on shared experiences and the changing face of the inner city as they wait for the lights to change.
A Family Affair
One specific location, box B0479, highlights the collaborative nature of the Artforce Brisbane program. This single utility box features contributions from three different artists: Anna Sutherland with “Pattern Box,” Michael Romans with “Landscape no. 2,” and Oona Romans with “A gathering place.”
The clustering of these distinct styles—ranging from abstract patterns to scenic views—demonstrates how the initiative brings people together, quite literally sharing the canvas to create a multi-layered piece of public art.
Local Character
Other artists have drawn inspiration from the suburb’s name and residential spirit. Lucia Laus adds a touch of humour to the streetscape with “Climbing Kangaroo,” a literal interpretation that plays on the area’s identity. On a more poetic note, Rachael Dale’s “Two Houses, One Thousand Goodnights” evokes a sense of home and domestic life.
These designs soften the hard edges of the busy roads, reminding commuters that despite the high-rises and traffic, Kangaroo Point remains a neighbourhood where people live, sleep, and dream.
These colourful additions are part of the Brisbane City Council’s long-running Artforce Brisbane initiative. Established in 1999 to combat graffiti on metal infrastructure, the program has grown into a city-wide project involving over 5,000 volunteers.
By providing residents with the supplies to paint over 1,200 boxes, the council has empowered locals to take ownership of their streets. The result is a suburb that feels less like a concrete jungle and more like a community gallery, showcasing the creativity of the people who call it home.
Published Date 22-December-2025
