Imagine a city remembering its watery past. Before you stands Watermark a powerful sculpture. It’s a testament to Brisbane’s floods. This isn’t just any art piece. It’s a poignant reminder of the Brisbane River’s fury. The 1893 and 1974 floods are etched into its very form. Watermark is more than just steel letters. Each letter is meticulously crafted. They are welded airtight to prevent rust. It’s a detail reflecting the artist’s dedication. The artist Richard Tipping wanted to capture the river’s power. He also wanted to convey the anxieties about future floods. The word flood is partially submerged mirroring the river’s destructive force. The sculpture’s name Watermark is a double meaning. It symbolizes the high-water mark. It also represents the way a watermark authenticates paper. Tipping’s work connects words and shapes. He believed words gain a physical presence reflecting the energies they contain. Originally commissioned in 2000 there was a belief the Wivenhoe Dam would prevent future floods. The 2011 flood proved that wrong. Watermark became a literal watermark. Floodwaters rose a couple of centimeters above its base. The ‘F’ reaches 180cm high. It’s tempting for children to climb. Yet it’s not so high that parents nearby worry. Watermark is part of Brisbane. It belongs to the city’s history. It’s a symbol of resilience. A reminder of a city that endures. This enduring sculpture has a 50-year contract. Brisbane City Council guarantees its care and maintenance. Watermark will stand for many years to come. It will continue to remind us of the city’s relationship with the river. It’s a powerful story told in steel.
Paper Boats Flood Markers Installation
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