Created for the Saltwater ArtStory Light Walk at the Shine On Gimuy Festival in Cairns, these illuminated inflatable spheres formed part of a mesmerising public art experience celebrating First Nations storytelling. Hosted by the Yidinji Nation and led by Artistic Director Rhoda Roberts AO, Shine On Gimuy has quickly established itself as a significant cultural tourism event, attracting more than 40,000 visitors since its launch in 2023 and continuing to grow as one of Queensland’s standout annual festivals.
Commissioned as part of the immersive ArtStory Light Walk, the custom inflatable spheres showcased the intricate artwork of Indigenous artist Michelle Yeatman, translating her designs into large-scale sculptural forms set within the Tropical North Queensland landscape. By day, the inflatables displayed detailed blue-and-white artwork across smooth curved surfaces, creating striking visual markers throughout the walk.
As night fell, the spheres transformed. Internally illuminated, the inflatables glowed brightly throughout the darkness, becoming captivating light sculptures that guided visitors through the experience. Combined with soundscapes and surrounding installations, the illuminated inflatables helped create an entrancing journey that reflected the beauty, culture and imagination of First Nations artists.
The glowing Saltwater Spheres became a popular focal point of the festival, creating moments of reflection and discovery while demonstrating how custom inflatables can become powerful platforms for cultural storytelling in large-scale public events.
Shine On Gimuy hosted by the Yidinji Nation
Artwork of Indigenous artist Michelle Yeatman
