Brisbane’s playful new landmark The Big Hose uncoils at QAGOMA
From The Big Pineapple on the Sunshine Coast to The Big Mango in Bowen, Queensland has a proud tradition of supersized landmarks. Now Brisbane has its own playful contender, swapping fruit for the quintessential backyard accessory – a giant garden hose. Stretching 119 metres across GOMA’s riverside lawn, The Big Hose is the city’s newest permanent artwork and a bold invitation to play.
Created by Tony Albert (Brisbane, Girramay/Yidinyji/Kuku Yalanji peoples) and Nell (Sydney), the coiling hose draws on the familiar themes of the Queensland backyard – gardens, verandahs and subtropical breezes – while acknowledging the Indigenous history of Kurilpa Point, a traditional meeting place of the Turrbal and Yuggera peoples. At the hose’s end, visitors will discover Kuril the native water rat nestled into his hideout, linking the playful installation back to thousands of years of storytelling on this site.
The Big Hose may look whimsical, but it carries environmental and cultural meaning too. With no tap in sight, it nudges viewers to ask where water comes from, while sparking curiosity in children and adults alike.
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Fabricated locally by UAP Foundry, The Big Hose is now a permanent addition to Brisbane’s cultural landscape – best admired before or after a meal at the newly reopened GOMA Bistro.
Visit the QAGOMA website for more information.
This article was written in partnership with our good friends at QAGOMA.