Step behind the scenes of one of Brisbane’s most extraordinary creative workplaces. UAP — founded in Brisbane over 30 years ago and now a global leader in public art and specialty architecture — opens its foundry doors exclusively for Brisbane Open House.
Global Curatorial Director Natasha Smith and Principal Specialty Architecture Michael Miscamble will guide you through UAP’s workshop, revealing the holistic process behind some of the world’s most celebrated public artworks. From big, bold creative vision to the beloved public realm, this is a rare and intimate look at how UAP’s collaborative spirit has helped shape Brisbane and cities around the world.
Your tour begins with a welcome and orientation before heading into the heart of the workshop. Explore Shed 41, where cutting-edge robotics meets traditional craft in the pattern-making, mould-making and paint shop. Then comes the centrepiece — a live foundry pour, where molten bronze is transformed into art before your eyes. From there, Shed 45 reveals the finishing stages of fabrication: welding, intricate patina work and the fine detailing that brings each piece to life. The tour concludes with a reflection on UAP’s extraordinary creative legacy.
Tours run at 8.30am and 10.30am. Places are strictly limited. Please wear covered shoes — hi-viz vests will be provided on arrival.
About UAP
Incredible things don’t just happen; they’re created, nurtured, believed in.
Established in Brisbane in 1993 by brothers Daniel and Matthew Tobin, UAP began as a studio and workshop with a simple but powerful mission: to work with artists and bring art to the public realm. Their collaborative approach gave artists the space to develop ideas, investigate materiality, and extend their practice — and, from those foundations, UAP has grown into a globally recognised leader in public art and specialty architecture.
While times have changed since we first opened our doors, one thing that has remained constant is our commitment to our clients and core values. At UAP we take pride in embracing uncommon creativity and extending creative practice. Bringing together people and capabilities to provide our clients with solutions to challenging problems is where we excel. Our unique culture emphasises determination, curiosity, generosity, teamwork and excellence in craft, and these values drive our success.
Today, UAP collaborates with artists, architects and designers across the world, delivering award-winning projects guided by core values of creativity, collaboration and innovation. With unrivalled manufacturing capabilities and a dedication to craftsmanship, UAP creates timeless works that transform spaces into places — and continues to ask what incredible things might be possible next.