The streets of Milton have been transformed into an open-air gallery, with local residents painting vibrant artworks on traffic signal boxes throughout the suburb. These eye-catching installations celebrate everything from local stories to community connections, turning everyday street furniture into conversation starters.
Koi
Located at the corner of Park Road and Douglas Street, this traffic signal box features multiple koi fish swimming among pond plants. Created by Ashleigh Westmoreland with assistance from Anna Ilyshechkin, Thomas Magree and Skye Baldock, the artwork draws parallels between the tranquillity of the Brisbane River and the bustling energy of Milton’s commercial centre. The piece incorporates the word “harmony” written in 35 languages across the top section, acknowledging Milton’s multicultural character reflected in its diverse dining scene and community events. The box was completed in April 2020 and received a nomination for overall winner.
Our Backyard
The intersection of Milton Road and Castlemaine Street showcases native Australian fauna rendered in a vibrant pop art colour palette. This 2021 artwork was designed and painted by Australian Defence Force veterans with support from Mates4Mates, a charity supporting defence personnel impacted by service-related injury or illness. Brienne Gibbs, a liaison officer with the organisation, facilitated the project. The playful colour scheme aims to remind passersby of the native creatures that share Brisbane’s urban environment whilst highlighting the responsibility to care for local wildlife.
Spots
At Milton Road and Cribb Street, Kirsten Baade’s geometric exploration uses colour and shape to reflect Milton’s dynamic character as a suburb. Completed in January 2017, the abstract design earned nominations for both overall winner and best adult categories.
Toot Toot Beep Beep Hoot Hoot Tweet Tweet
Anyone who has sat in peak-hour congestion along Milton Road will appreciate Bronte Mark’s lighthearted take on the daily commute at 291 Milton Road. The 2023 artwork depicts various vehicles—buses, electric cars, family vehicles and even someone towing a moving trailer—in a colourful, whimsical style. The piece earned the best Energex box award in 2023. Mark’s intention was to help commuters find humour in the shared experience of traffic whilst walkers might feel grateful for their freedom of movement.
Kookaburra Sits in the Old Gum Tree…Deconstructed
Alexandra Westaway’s 2017 piece at the busy intersection of Milton Road, Baroona Road and Park Road takes inspiration from the classic Australian children’s song. The artwork features a rainbow backdrop in colours representing the natural Australian landscape—volcanic soil reds, sky and sea blues, and the varied hues of native flora and birdlife. The piece, which earned nominations for overall winner and best adult, poses questions about the impact of rapid urban development on Brisbane’s natural spaces and quality of life.
Footy, Fireworks, Fans, Festivities and Fun!
Helen Lucas and Gemma Lucas’s 2025 design at Caxton Street and Hale Street pays tribute to the energy and excitement of Milton’s entertainment and sports precinct. The artwork acknowledges Lang Park Stadium’s 30th anniversary in 2025, capturing the diverse events hosted at the venue—from rugby codes to concerts and major football matches. The background incorporates the area’s history as native bushland, burial ground and parkland, whilst fireworks gesture towards Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic Games hosting duties.
About Artforce Brisbane
These artworks are part of Artforce Brisbane, an annual community art programme run by Brisbane City Council since 1999. The initiative invites Brisbane residents of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to paint original artworks on traffic signal boxes throughout the city’s suburbs. More than 5,000 volunteers have painted over 1,200 boxes across Brisbane, celebrating local characters, cultures, histories and landmarks while reducing graffiti and vandalism. The programme is managed by Artfully, a Brisbane-based arts consultancy specialising in public art and placemaking. Each year, approximately 80 painting opportunities become available as the council upgrades intersections and replaces old cabinets.
Residents interested in participating can register at the Artforce Brisbane website or email info@artforcebrisbane.com.au for more information.
Published 26-December-2025
