By CRAIG FARRELL MLC
| DID you have a look at The Bridge Art Prize Exhibition at New Norfolk? It was the end result of a discussion between an artist and an engineer over a coffee at the Black Swan Cafe. Already, we can see the bridge-building between the people and businesses to get this going, but wait, there’s more!
There is no doubt that the long-awaited new bridge across the River Derwent between Granton and Bridgewater has been a spectacle in its own right, but it has given us so much more than a river crossing. Those who have regularly travelled around, and through, the construction site have watched this bridge grow from barges and pylons into a completed bridge.
Although at times the traffic delays may have caused some frustrations, at least there was something to watch while you waited for the traffic to start to flow again. The bridge construction has shown us that engineering and art share many disciplines, and The Bridge Art Prize has brought artists and engineers together.
Recently, a large crowd assembled at the 9B Studios, in Burnett St, New Norfolk, for the major prize announcement. It was very clear that the artists had a respect and understanding for the engineering and construction crews. This was evident in their art, whether it was sculpture, painting, photography, video or written. It was also apparent that the engineers and construction workers had a keen connection to the work of the artists.
The gala event began with our fabulous Derwent Valley Concert Band performing Timtumili Minanya. This piece of music was commissioned by the Derwent Valley Concert Band and composed by James Henry. It follows the journey of the river from the western mountains, through the Derwent Valley to Hobart and out to sea.
Following this moving outdoor performance, not far from the banks of its namesake, the exhibition was opened by the Governor, Barbara Baker. It was clear from the various speakers on the night that all the planning and work that went into bringing this exhibition to life was well worth it. The evening showed that building a bridge builds bridges.
Craig Farrell is president of the Legislative Council and member for Derwent. He writes regularly for New Norfolk and Derwent Valley News.
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