Sandgate residents continue to enjoy a vibrant outdoor gallery where everyday traffic signal boxes display the enduring creativity of locals through the long-running Artforce Brisbane program.
Stories on the Corner
Walking through Sandgate, locals are likely familiar with the colourful artwork that wraps around the suburb’s utility boxes. These pieces serve as snapshots of the community, with Ariya McDonald’s piece “Expanding Horizons” and Kimberly Smith’s “Birds of Sandgate” reflecting the local environment. At other intersections, the artwork speaks to the seaside lifestyle, such as Mary Harm’s “Fish n Chips,” while Nyree Cooper shares a simple message with “Gratitude.”
These designs have transformed standard metal infrastructure into points of pride that have become part of the daily scenery for commuters and pedestrians.
Expanding Horizons
Artist: Ariya McDonald Location: Sandgate (B0108)
This piece is a true tribute to the local area, specifically drawing inspiration from Sandgate District State High School. The design features the Ibis—often playfully known as the “bin chicken” but here celebrated as a school mascot representing the motto “I Believe In Sandgate.” The artwork is washed in the warm colours of a sunrise and sunset, reflecting the suburb’s stunning waterfront views. It also incorporates native Australian flora and a stack of books, symbolising both the natural beauty of the area and the value of education.
Birds of Sandgate
Artist: Kimberly Smith Location: Sandgate (B8031)
Living by the bay, residents are used to sharing the footpaths and foreshore with plenty of feathered locals. Kimberly Smith’s artwork captures this daily reality, turning a standard utility box into a celebration of the wildlife that calls the 4017 postcode home. By highlighting the birds of the area, the piece serves as a reminder of the unique environment that exists right on the doorstep of the suburban streets.
Fish n Chips
Artist: Mary Harm Location: Sandgate (SC814398)
It wouldn’t be Sandgate without a nod to the classic seaside dinner. Mary Harm’s artwork, “Fish n Chips,” playfully immortalises the tradition of grabbing a meal by the water. Whether it’s a family outing or a quick bite after a swim, this artwork connects with anyone who has spent a weekend afternoon on the Sandgate foreshore battling the seagulls for a hot chip.
Gratitude
Artist: Nyree Cooper Location: Sandgate (SC3543)
While some boxes celebrate nature or food, Nyree Cooper’s “Gratitude” brings a gentle reminder of community spirit to the streetscape. In a busy world, this artwork encourages passersby to pause and reflect. It stands as a simple but effective prompt for mental well-being, fitting perfectly into the friendly and supportive atmosphere that Sandgate residents are known for.
A Long-Standing Tradition
This splash of colour is part of the established Artforce Brisbane initiative, which has been running since 1999. Managed by the Brisbane City Council, the program was designed to turn traffic signal boxes and pad-mount transformers into art to discourage graffiti.
Over the last two decades, more than 5,000 volunteers have painted over 1,200 boxes across the city. What began as a way to keep surfaces clean has evolved into a way for suburbs like Sandgate to showcase their unique identity through visual storytelling.
Community at Heart
The program remains open to nearly everyone in Brisbane, ensuring that the art seen on the streets comes from the people who live there. School students, families, and community groups are encouraged to apply, not just professional artists.
Once a design is approved, the Council provides the necessary equipment and safety gear, giving the artist a set time to complete their work. The initiative also honours these contributions through annual awards, recognising the efforts of those who help keep the neighbourhood looking bright and welcoming.
Published Date 31-December-2025
