The hidden art of Kurilpa
The easiest way to look at art is to head to the corner of Peel St and Grey St. There you will find Queensland Art Gallery. A place where art is displayed open for everyone to see — but sometimes not for free. This is of course the best solution if you want to look at what the majority think is art and don’t feel too adventurous.
If you truly want to see art that is made by the locals and is part of the soul of this beautiful area, you have to take a walk around Kurilpa and look very closely around you. Sometimes you have to look really close to spot the artwork. It is not designated to a certain street. Some streets have no art at all, while others have these hidden gems that you sometimes only notice the second or even third time you walk past it when looking very closely.
Street art is not for everyone; and not everyone will appreciate Monet. But art isn’t always meant to be liked by everyone, or understood. Sometimes it is the placement of it or the symbolism that makes the art. What we hopefully can agree on is that it is a way for a younger generation to express themselves more creatively, rather than running around bashing people and smashing things.
Isn’t it more beautiful to look at a colourful piece of art than a grey concrete wall?
I don’t think I will be able to see or find all the artwork around Kurilpa, but when I do I try to appreciate it and hope that I understand what the artist is trying to tell me. West End and Highgate Hill (Kurilpa) would look very naked and boring without this kind of unique form of art. An art form that is not socially accepted by everyone and will for sure start a debate if mentioned in public.
If you decide to have a walk around West End and Highgate Hill, keep in mind that not only will you see unique and beautiful street art, you will also see a very unique and beautiful suburb that still hasn’t become a concrete jungle. You might even be so lucky to spot one of the Bluetongues that live around here; the diminishing local wildlife that is trying to adapt to our modern way of life.
