Bardon residents don’t need to venture far to experience some of Brisbane’s most creative public art. Just down the hill in neighbouring Paddington, a vibrant collection of sculptures, murals and mosaics transforms the familiar shopping strip into an unexpected outdoor gallery. It’s the kind of cultural offering that makes living on the leafy fringes of the inner west even more appealing – world-class art within walking distance, or a quick bus ride away.
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The Bright Siders’ Historical Tribute
At Bizzell’s Garage, artist collective The Brightsiders have created a mural that honours Paddington’s transport heritage. The artwork depicts the bustling tram scene that defined the suburb during the 1900s, when trams were the lifeblood of the community. The mural serves as a reminder of Paddington’s transport history and the trams that once connected Bardon residents to the city below – the very line that helped shape both suburbs into the residential communities they are today.
Scott Harrower’s Highland Rest
Further along the terrace, you’ll discover Scott Harrower’s “Highland Rest”, a stunning mosaic-tiled bench that offers both respite and visual delight. Harrower’s mosaic work creates a permanent installation that functions as both art and amenity. The intricate patterns reward close inspection, making it an ideal spot to pause during your shopping expedition or weekend wander.
The Kooka! Trail: Paddington’s Signature Sculpture Walk
The highlight of Paddington’s public art offering is undoubtedly the Kooka! Trail, featuring 16 vibrant kookaburra sculptures scattered along Latrobe Terrace and Given Terrace. Launched in 2022 through Brisbane ‘s Paddington Terraces Precinct Grant Project, these sculptural seats are far more interesting than your average street furniture.
Each sculpture was made from waste materials before being reimagined by local artists into functional seating that celebrates the laughing kookaburra. Brisbane design collective Derlot created the base forms, while individual artists added their distinctive interpretations.
Debra Hood decorated her kookaburra with delicate dotted patterns inspired by Brisbane’s springtime blooms. Zoe Porter’s “Latrobe Kookaburra” features the vivid pinks, yellows and greens of galahs, cockatoos and lorikeets, weaving native bird species into traditional kookaburra markings. Torres Strait Islander artist Tori-Jay Mordey created “Care and At Night”, a thoughtful reflection on the struggles native wildlife face in urban settings.
One particularly moving sculpture represents five cultural groups – Irish, Hungarian, Croatian, Polish and Italian – commemorating the Catholic immigrant families who made Paddington home between the 1940s and 1970s. Other contributing artists include Rick Hayward, Stephen Mok, Hailey Atkins and Spectator Jonze, each bringing their unique artistic voice to the project.
Making the Journey
For Bardon residents, accessing Paddington’s art trail couldn’t be easier. You can walk down Latrobe Terrace from the Bardon end towards Given Terrace and Suncorp Stadium, turning the journey into a leisurely afternoon outing. Multiple bus routes service the area if you prefer to save your energy for the return uphill journey.
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Between artworks, you’ll pass the cafés and boutique shops that make Paddington such a popular destination for Bardon locals. The entire art trail experience is free, making it an ideal outing for families, a creative date idea, or simply a fresh way to experience a familiar neighbourhood.
Living in Bardon means having access to nature reserves, quiet streets and community spirit. But it also means being minutes away from cultural experiences like Paddington’s public art trail – proof that the best galleries don’t always have walls, and the best exhibitions are sometimes just a short walk from home.
Published 31-January-2026
