On Sunday morning, thousands of participants stripped down for a daring art installation by acclaimed photographer Spencer Tunick in Brisbane. The event, titled RISING TIDE, aimed to celebrate body positivity and community, as attendees gathered along the iconic Story Bridge before sunrise.
Despite the early hour and drizzling rain, excitement buzzed in the air as the crowd prepared for Tunick’s latest project. However, moments before the official start, the artist humorously reminded participants through a megaphone: “Nobody should be naked yet – there’s still 45 minutes until sunrise!” This prompted a brief pause, as some early birds quickly covered up while others chose to remain bare, defying the chilly conditions.
Participants, numbering around 5,500—a record turnout for Tunick in Australia—found a sense of unity in their shared vulnerability. “When there’s nowhere to hide, there’s nothing to hide,” remarked drag artist Zach, highlighting the liberating experience of being among so many bodies of all shapes and sizes.
The installation is a sequel to Tunick's earlier work, TIDE, shot in Brisbane as part of the Melt festival celebrating queer culture. As attendees took their places, Tunick emphasized the message behind the installation: a collective vote for diversity, equity, and inclusion, especially poignant after Queensland’s recent election results.
As the crowd followed Tunick's directions—striking various poses and lying on the wet ground—participants shared stories and laughs. For many, like Chris, the experience symbolized a personal journey toward self-acceptance, while others, like Reeta, saw it as a turning point after challenging times.
After an hour, the group moved to the Howard Smith Wharves for a second round of nudity. Here, the atmosphere was even more vibrant, with curious tourists capturing the moment on camera and locals observing from their luxurious balconies. One resident humorously lamented the view, but for the participants, it was a joyful celebration of body freedom, even as they struck poses that included a playful child's pose.
Despite the occasional monotony of waiting in the elements, the experience fostered connections among participants. Moments of shared laughter—such as collectively responding to sneezes and enjoying the presence of a friendly golden retriever—created a sense of camaraderie.
As the day progressed and the sun rose higher, participants walked back along the Riverwalk, where one enthusiastic onlooker joined in by shedding his clothes in solidarity. The resulting cheer from the crowd encapsulated the spirit of the day—a celebration of self-acceptance and community through the lens of art.
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