When you think of Outback Queensland, a booming art scene probably doesn’t pop to mind… But did you know that Western Queensland is actually covered in cracking silo art, sculpture trails, galleries, murals and more?
Silo art
Over the past year, silo art has certainly taken our beautiful state by storm! These days, you can catch a glimpse of these massive murals in nearly every corner of the country. If you’re ever on the road out West, be sure to pull into Thallon, Moura, Cloncurry and Yelarbon to see the towering art. Trust us when we say that you won’t believe your eyes!
Find a full list of where to see silo art in Queensland here!
Sculpture trails
Not only is Outback Queensland covered in silo art, but it is also home to some very impressive sculpture trails. The Lake Dunn Sculpture Trail is a must-see for anyone travelling through Aramac. The 200-kilometre trail consists of 38 sculptures dotted along the road to Lake Dunn and Rangers Valley, all created by local artist Milynda Rogers. You can pick up a map to the trail at visitor centres in the area.
Murals
Not far from Aramac is the tiny town of Alpha. Alpha is a very creative town; the town’s streets are named after poets. Around the town, there are 27 murals to see, each telling a story about life in the Outback. Art fanatics will easily be able to while away a day in Alpha, checking out the murals and exploring the Jane Neville-Rolfe Art Gallery. Keep an eye out for the Fossilised Forest Sculpture in the main street while you walk around town.
In Moura, make sure you check out one of Joel Fergie’s most recent pieces of work on the sides of Dawson Highway Cafe and Karinya Cafe on the Dawson Highway. It’s an incredible sight to see!
Unique art
Arno’s Wall in Winton is probably one of the more unique pieces of art you will find out West. Arno Grotjahn’s wall isn’t your average wall; instead, it is a massive 70-metre long concrete collection of household items. His wall pays homage to nearly every household item there is: from sewing machines to typewriters, lawnmowers, motorbikes, tyres, and even dolls. The wall has been a work-in-progress for 30 years, and it continues to grow.
Indigenous art
If you are ever out near Birdsville, swing into Betoota to check out The Dreamtime Serpent, carved into the side of the hill. The artwork brings the local Indigenous community’s Dreamtime Stories to life, telling the story of a serpent connecting two rivers by carving a path.
