UQ research station brings art and science together

Marine science, climate change, and the impact of humans on the environment are explored in five new artworks installed at The University of Queensland's Moreton Bay Research Station.

Funded by a $50,000 Arts Queensland grant, and with the aim of developing opportunities for local artists, the Moreton Bay Research Station Public Art Project will be officially launched on Friday, April 23.

It has successfully lured the talents of four island residents.

Education officer Dr Kathy Townsend said all works were created locally and aimed to promote education and understanding of the marine environment.

"They reflect the nature of the sciences that take place at MBRS and a vision for the future role of MBRS in the face of climate change," she said.

"They depict both charismatic macro fauna and micro flora and fauna, their environment and the impact of human activity on the bay.

"Conceptually the works explore the complexity and fragility of marine organisms in the bay and their habitats."

During the course of the project, the internationally renowned Indigenous artist Judy Watson mentored artists Belinda Close, Jennie Truman, Bernadette Mollison and Ali Braybrook.

Ms Watson participated in a similar venture at Heron Island Research Station in 2009, resulting in a showing of her works at the UQ Art Museum late last year.

The project, managed by Straddie local Jo Kasparie, will be launched on Friday, April 23 between 1.30pm and 3pm at Moreton Bay Research Station, Flinders Avenue, North Stradbroke Island.

Following the event at MBRS, Quandamooka Lands Council, Saltwater Murris and the Redland City Council will be launching "Quandamooka Stories: Public Art and Heritage Trails - Dunwich Streetscape" from 3pm to 4pm in Ballow Street - a five minute walk from the research station.

Media: Dr Kathy Townsend (0428 388 959, kathy.townsend@uq.edu.au) or Penny Robinson at UQ Communications (07 3365 9723, penny.robinson@uq.edu.au)