Celebrating Community and Culture: The Launch of 51 Fish and the Arrival of 'Raphael, the Traveller 2024'

The vibrant neighbourhood of South Brisbane has welcomed an exciting new addition to its thriving cultural landscape with the launch of the 51 Fish retail precinct. Forming the streetscape of Stockwell’s latest residential tower, Croft & Cremorne on Fish Lane, this new development is not just about adding retail space; it’s about contributing to the community’s rich tapestry of art and culture. At the heart of this launch is a remarkable piece of public art that promises to captivate and inspire: ‘Raphael, the Traveller 2024’ by renowned French sculptor Bruno Catalano, the first of this artist’s work on permanent display in Australia.

The Importance of Public Art in Urban Spaces

Public art plays a vital role in the life of a city. It does more than just beautify the urban environment; it fosters a sense of community, encourages interaction, and enriches the experiences of both residents and visitors. In Brisbane, public art is a key component of the city’s identity, with around 200 artworks strategically placed throughout the city and its suburbs. These works range from large-scale contemporary sculptures to integrated bespoke elements, each contributing to the city’s cultural narrative.

The introduction of ‘Raphael’ to the Fish Lane Precinct is a testament to Stockwell’s commitment to enhancing the public spaces within their developments. It underscores the company’s dedication to contributing to the cultural vibrancy of South Brisbane, making it not just a place to live but a destination to explore and enjoy.

Meet the Artist: Bruno Catalano

Bruno Catalano is an internationally acclaimed artist known for his strikingly realistic bronze sculptures. Born in Morocco and now based in France, Catalano has made a name for himself with his distinctive portrayal of travellers, often depicted with fragmented bodies that seem to dissolve into their surroundings. His works, which balance negative and positive space, invite viewers to contemplate themes such as migration, memory, and the search for home.

Catalano’s sculptures have been featured in prestigious galleries and public spaces around the world, including a permanent installation of his ‘Les Voyageurs’ series in Marseille, which commemorated the city’s designation as a European Capital of Culture in 2013. His participation in the 2019 Venice Biennale further solidified his reputation as a leading figure in contemporary sculpture.

L-R Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner, Stockwell Head of Residential Maddy Stockwell, Stockwell Managing Director Mark Stockwell officiating the unveiling of 'Raphael, the Traveller 2024'.

‘Raphael’: A Journey Through Fish Lane

The centrepiece of the 51 Fish retail precinct is ‘Raphael’, one of Catalano’s iconic traveller sculptures. This captivating piece portrays a figure in mid-journey carrying luggage and navigating an unseen path. The incomplete form of ‘Raphael’ allows the viewer to see through the sculpture, creating a unique interaction between the artwork, its surroundings, and the onlooker.

The symbolism of ‘Raphael’ is rich and layered. The act of carrying luggage represents the weight of memories, nostalgia, and life’s burdens while also embodying the hopes, pride, and curiosity that drive us to explore new horizons. The piece is a powerful reminder that each of us is on a journey, carrying our own stories and experiences shaped by the places we have been and the people we have encountered.

As visitors and locals alike encounter ‘Raphael’ in Fish Lane, they are invited to engage with the sculpture on a personal level, reflecting on their own journeys and the paths that have brought them to where they are today.

Expanding Retail and Cultural Horizons

The launch of 51 Fish marks a significant milestone in the ongoing development of Fish Lane, further establishing it as a hub of culture, dining, and retail in South Brisbane. This new precinct will bring retail options for new businesses to emerge and enrich the area’s cultural offerings, making it a vibrant destination for locals and visitors.

Stockwell’s investment in public art, exemplified by the installation of ‘Raphael’, is a testament to the company’s vision for creating functional and inspiring spaces. As South Brisbane continues to grow and evolve, developments like 51 Fish ensure that the area remains a dynamic, engaging, and culturally rich environment for all who visit.

Meet ‘Raphael’ in person at 51 Fish Lane, South Brisbane.