“Queensland is the state of diversity with its vast coastlines, open flat interior and abundant resources. But one thing that unites us all in the ‘SunshineState’ is indeed, the sun. It’s the binding factor that makes Queensland what it is. Sunlight energises the productive heart of our state and imprints our land-scape such that we all benefit.”

The repetition of “suns” in this sculpture represents the numerous but similar solar farms popping up in recent years in Central West Queensland, all doing their bit to power our lives and our future prosperity.

Increasingly, the iconic and quintessential Queenslander home many of us have spent at least part of our lives in, is now being powered by energy harvested from the sun.”

“I first heard of the Outback Way Billboard art concept though Flying Arts and thought it was an excellent way to brighten the day for travellers on the Plenty Hwy while expanding the reach of the arts in a very remote region. Thinking of recent completed artworks that would fit the bill, I chose ‘Sun Harness’. There is plenty of sunshine in the desert and most travellers today make some use of it with solar panels to harness the sun and run their caravans.”

Joanne Taylor was a finalist in the 2019 Queensland Regional Art Awards, and this artwork toured with the State of Diversity exhibition.