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Brisbane has today experienced an unusual transformation of its Story Bridge with 5,500 nude participants coming together for ‘Rising Tide’, a monumental live nude installation created by New York artist Spencer Tunick.

Participants of all ages, body types and genders braved the spring morning for this once-in-a-lifetime event that celebrated diversity, equity and inclusion.

Part of the Brisbane Powerhouse’s Melt Festival 2024, the installation marks the 30th anniversary of Tunick’s international career in documenting the nude figure in public spaces.

The event, Tunick’s largest Australian installation yet, Tunick not only celebrates the beauty of the human form but also honours Brisbane vibrant LGBTQIA+ community.

Reflecting on the event, Tunick stated “this work on Brisbane’s Story Bridge and locations around it has been my most inclusive installation to date. 5,500 people is my largest Australian work so far and this one is very special because it celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community and allies.

“Photographing all the participants on the bridge was like looking down the mouth of a whale, filled with love and diversity.”

Each participant will receive a print of the final artwork, captured by Tunick, as a gift of appreciation from Brisbane Powerhouse and Melt.

Rising Tide is part of a broader body of work that began with the intimate ‘Tide’ installation in 2023, where Tunick first engaged with the Brisbane community to explore themes of diversity, beauty and vulnerability.

The works are being showcased at the Brisbane Powerhouse as a projected video exhibition, marking Tunick’s debut gallery exhibition in Australia and the first time this work will be available for public viewing.

The Melt Festival is being held from 23rd October to 10th November.

Melt is supported by the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland, and Brisbane City Council, through Brisbane Economic Development Agency.

Images: The Rising Tide installation on Brisbane's Story Bridge this morning (top) and installation artist Spencer Tunick (below). Credit: 

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