Japanese-Australian multidisciplinary artist Hiromi Tango will start a six-month residency from 2 March 2024 where the contemporary creative will transform Museum of Brisbane’s Adelaide Street Pavilion into a sculptural arrangement of vibrant flowers through the 花弁 Hanabira (Gentle Petal) public installation.
As the community-led project begins to blossom, Hiromi invites residents and visitors to create decorative flowers and foliage fashioned from upcycled textiles and foraged local materials inspired by the abundant blooms and buds found across Meanjin/Brisbane.
Museum-goers can participate in facilitated hands-on workshops or simply wander in and engage in self-guided art activities to contribute to the budding public project.
Hanabira (Gentle Petal) will reflect the changing seasons as handmade flowers are added to the walls, creating a floral sanctuary and a meditative space for expression, transformation and healing.
Examining the intersection of art, health and neuroscience is at the root of Hiromi’s decades-long practice, which manifests as colourful, tactile and multilayered sculptural displays.
Her process is cumulative; she weaves, wraps and stitches over everyday objects and materials before joining them together to construct immersive environments.
Through her art, Hiromi has developed an immediately recognisable style that has seen her works displayed in major Australian museums as well as international exhibitions in the US, Belgium, Dubai and throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
As Artist-in-Residence, Hiromi will be in attendance at MoB, allowing visitors to witness her expression in action, draw inspiration as the healing garden takes shape and help the artist add to the blooming display.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the Museum of Brisbane is one of Brisbane’s best kept cultural secrets.
“The Museum of Brisbane tells the stories of our city, while displaying incredible exhibits from local and international artists,” Cr Schrinner said.
“The latest exhibit from artist in residence Hiromi will bring our Adelaide Street Pavilion to life with an outstanding public installation of fantastic florals.
“Best of all, entry to the museum is free, providing more to see and do around our city.”
Hiromi would like to personally thank Professor David Craik, Wendy Mansell and The University of Queensland Institute for Molecular Bioscience (IMB) for their ongoing support.
MoB respectfully acknowledges Warunghu, Aunty Raelene Baker’s insight, conversation and
participation in developing this project and thanks Molly Green for her commitment, generosity and contribution.
