Lockyer Valley Public Art Initiative

Yes, successful applicants chosen to proceed to Phase Two of the EOI will be paid for their work. This includes a Concept Design Fee for those invited to submit a concept design, and professional aretist fees for those make final selection under the project.

The project will shortlist artists from the EOI and invite them to design three-dimensional sculptural artworks that respond to the curatorial rationale.

“Between Water and Wild” draws on the region’s deep connection to nature, its rich cultural heritage, and its remarkable resilience in the face of environmental challenges. As a place of ecological and community significance, Lake Apex offers a powerful context for sculptural works that celebrate both the beauty and endurance of the local landscape. 

Proposed artworks will explore the interplay between realism and abstraction to interpret the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Some sculptures may evoke native species with detailed, lifelike accuracy, while others may use abstract forms to represent the invisible forces—like water flow, regeneration, and memory—that shape the region’s identity. Through this balance, the works will invite reflection on the interdependence of people and environment. 

Sculptures will serve as visual waypoints, marking the landscape with stories of survival, regeneration, and harmony. From the lifelike to the symbolic, the works will foster moments of contemplation and connection, inviting viewers to trace their own place within the broader living system. 

In grounding contemporary art in this setting, the project aims to inspire appreciation, curiosity, and stewardship—celebrating the living, breathing character of the Lockyer Valley.
 

Each phase of the project will be assessed by the project’s Assessment Panel, comprising of a member of each of the following groups:
1.    Lake Apex Community Advisory Committee (LACAC).
2.    LVRC Special Projects and Tourism Team.
3.    LVRC Libraries and Art Gallery Team.
4.    LVRC Councillor.

The Lake Apex Precinct is a widely utilised recreational precinct enjoyed by residents and visitors alike, offering an opportunity for the Public Art to be enjoyed by a wide range of users. Lake Apex also offers available land, and the project ties in with pre-existing sculptural art already located within the precinct. Additionally, Lake Apex aligns with the project’s Curatorial Rationale, “Between Water and Wild”, as a place of ecological and community significance in the Lockyer Valley region.

Council is calling for suitably qualified and experienced artists located within the Lockyer Valley and South East Queensland who have previous experience in creating high-quality public art and specifically, three-dimensional sculptural art. 

You can view the official Council report and meeting minutes on our website. Simply visit Lockyer Valley Regional Council and navigate through Menu - Our Council – Meetings and Committees – Agenda and Minutes to access Council’s record of Council Meeting agendas and minutes. 

Select the Meeting held on 16 July 2025 and find item 12.9.
 

No, this project is fully funded by the South East Queensland (SEQ) City Deal Public Art Initiatives funding. It is a commitment under the $1.8 billion SEQ City Deal between the Australian Government, Queensland Government, and the Council of Mayors (SEQ).  The Australian Government has committed $10.0 million to the Public Art Initiative, allocated to eligible member councils of the Council of Mayors (SEQ) through a non-competitive application and assessment process. 

The Initiative will enhance place-making and promote a more liveable SEQ through public art and architecture, allowing eligible local governments select and engage artists to develop and deliver public art within the region. 

Council has been allocated up to $430,000 within the Initiative. It is an opportunity afforded to Council and use of the funding does not impact Council’s access to funding for other projects, nor can Council choose an alternative project to utilise the funding for. These funds cannot be used for roads, parks or other projects and maintenance. 

As part of Council’s commitment to keeping the community informed, Council will provide regular updates throughout the project. This will be done: 

• Through updates on the Engagement Hub project page
• Announcements via Council’s various media channels.

Stay connected to follow the journey of this exciting public art initiative through our social media platforms!

• Facebook - @LockyerValleyRegionalCouncil
• Instagram - @lockyervalley_regionalcouncil
• LinkedIn - @Lockyer Valley Regional Council
• X - @LockyerValleyRC