Briggs’ Lanterns

OVERVIEW
Briggs’ Lanterns is an ephemeral lighting installation, which celebrates the workers and traders of Brisbane’s historic Tank Street Precinct.

From the late 1800s, the precinct was a bustling hub of small business enterprise and boarding houses. J Briggs & Sons had a drapery store at 428 George Street from c1917 until at around 1951, which backed onto what is now known as Briggs Lane.

The installation consists of nine lanterns, the skeleton of which references the shape of a Victorian-era dining chair, familiar to local boarding houses of the time. And, wrapped in a patterned fabric membrane they give a respectful nod to local textile tailors and merchants.

DETAILS
Exhibition Title: Briggs’ Lanterns
Year: 2009
Dimensions: Variable
Materials: Marine grade plywood, battery-powered timer lights, digitally printed two-way stretch polyester fabric
Location: Briggs Lane, Brisbane
Images: Troy Hansen