Passing By

This mural explores the intersection of the natural and built environments, depicting iconic Bribie Island suburbia nestled amongst serene blue waters, harmoniously integrated with the surrounding salt marshes and tide pools. In this surreal, dreamlike composition, the wetlands and suburbs of Bribie Island have merged into a single entity, with oversized rhad fish, mullet, bream, egrets, mud crabs and pelicans gracefully traversing the landscape, threading between houses and backyards as if the air itself were their underwater playground.

Phoebe’s mural features the history of Bribie’s unique architecture and its evolving identity, informed by the personal stories shared by workshop participants as well as Phoebe’s additional research. Architectural styles include low set, weatherboard holiday homes, the classic Queenslander, fisherman huts and modern brick homes. Phoebe has also featured the slow creep of development and apartment living as part of the changing face of Bribie Island. Despite these structural changes, the natural environment remains strong and beautiful while our buildings change around it.  

The Bribie Island Library is a place of learning, imagination and community. ‘Passing By’ responds to the site of the library and all it offers with playfulness and childlike wonder in mind. The mural is designed to instil joy and a sense of local mythology for young people, children and families who visit this site, as well as connecting with older generations who hold a great deal of pride and love for the island, its history and natural environment.

Photography by Katie Bennett embellysh.com.au