Cai Guo-Qiang: Falling back to earth

9 The Queensland Government is committed to providing all Queenslanders and visitors to our state with access to great art and enriching cultural experiences. This summer one of the most respected contemporary artists in the world, Cai Guo-Qiang, has spectacularly transformed GOMA’s soaring ground-floor spaces with ‘Falling Back to Earth’ — three major installations, including two new works that draw inspiration from Queensland’s natural beauty and distinctive culture. Eucalyptus 2013 was created in response to time spent among the ancient forests of Lamington National Park, while Heritage 2013 was inspired by the artist’s visits to North Stradbroke Island with his family. Heritage has been acquired for the Gallery’s Collection with the assistance of funds from the Josephine Ulrick and Win Schubert Diversity Foundation and I thank Mrs Schubert for her incredible generosity. These new installations, together with one of Cai’s signature works, Head On 2006, will make this exhibition an unforgettable experience for visitors to GOMA. QAGOMA plays a dynamic role in Queensland’s cultural tourism aspirations, attracting national and international visitors with its exclusive exhibitions and innovative audience engagement strategies. Attracting artists like Cai Guo-Qiang supports my Government’s commitment to build on the reputation of Brisbane’s Cultural Precinct as a major cultural destination. I would also like to acknowledge the Minister for Science, Information Technology, Innovation and the Arts, the Honourable Ian Walker MP , and I congratulate the Minister and his department, through Arts Queensland, who have supported the Gallery and shared its enthusiasm for this important exhibition. ‘Cai Guo-Qiang: Falling Back to Earth’ is proudly presented by Tourism and Events Queensland with support from the Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games, the Honourable Jann Stuckey MP . I commend the Minister, Tourism and Events Queensland and Brisbane Marketing for working together with the Gallery to profile this special cultural attraction to visitors and potential visitors to Queensland. I gratefully acknowledge Presenting Sponsor Santos GLNG Project, whose support for this exhibition is part of this company’s five-year commitment to the Gallery’s annual summer exhibition series. I also acknowledge Principal Sponsor Audi Australia, a company passionate about contemporary art; and welcome Deutsche Bank who, as Supporting Sponsor, has supported the exhibition’s vital education programs and activities. I personally thank the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation for once again generously supporting the Gallery’s integral children’s program. Tim Fairfax, AM , Gina Fairfax and their family are deeply committed to helping make art more accessible to children and regional communities — a commitment my Government is strengthening through our Arts for all Queenslanders strategy. Finally, I commend QAGOMA Director Chris Saines and the talented team of staff at the Gallery who inspire us with their creative energy, infectious passion for contemporary art and inventive approach to audience engagement. ‘Cai Guo-Qiang: Falling Back to Earth’ is another exceptional project for Queensland’s leading visual art institution and a tremendous coup for Queenslanders. Tea Pavilion 2013 Installation detail, Gallery of Modern Art 2013 Government message The Honourable Campbell Newman MP , Premier of Queensland