Centenary of Canberra – The Skywhale

BRAND IDENTITY
INTERFACE DESIGN
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

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THE BRIEF

The Skywhale is daring, large-scale sculpture by acclaimed Australian artist Patricia Piccinini. Built and flown as a hot air balloon, the artwork was commissioned as part of the Centenary of Canberra festival, celebrating 100 years since Australia’s capital city was founded.

It has a gentle face, 10 pendulous breasts, and was largely taxpayer-funded. It was certain to be controversial.

THE PROCESS

As opportunities to fly the balloon would be limited and weather dependent, there was a need for captivating imagery, film and online resources to ensure as wide an audience as possible. 

A website and social media channels were developed to showcase imagery and provide context for the sculpture: interviews with the artist and references to her previous work aimed to inform and contribute to the public conversation that the Skywhale prompted. 

Educational materials were also developed for primary and highschool students.

THE OUTCOME

The Skywhale’s launch made national and international headlines, with the video of its first flight attracting 80,000 views in the first 48 hours and social media attention engagement expectations, with critics and fans engaging on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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2013
Studio: Blueboat
Role: Lead Designer