A unique art exhibition recently captivated audiences as artist Jake Moss transformed a hired Queensland Rail train, departing from Fortitude Valley’s Roma Street Station, into a moving gallery for a journey that ended in Woodridge.
The unusual event took place as guests discovered their destination only after the train began its journey. This innovative display offered a fresh perspective on experiencing art while in motion.
A Personal Journey to Woodridge
For Jake Moss, the decision to host the exhibition on a train bound for Woodridge carried deep personal meaning. He spent his childhood living in a housing commission in Woodridge and, during his high school years, felt a strong sense of shame about his home suburb.
Moss has shared that he often lied to his private school friends about where he lived, avoiding visits and preventing himself from forming common memories, such as taking the train to Woodridge with mates.
He explained that the exhibition, titled “Something I Should Have Done A Long Time Ago,” allowed him to finally create a positive memory associated with that journey and share it with many people.
This sentiment was echoed in a heartwarming moment where his father, sitting on the specially hired train, expressed his fondness for paintings depicting moments they shared.
Art on Rails and Fashion Surprises
The exhibition showcased 32 new paintings by Moss, all specifically created to fit within the train’s window spaces. Beyond the visual art, guests were treated to a surprise fashion show, a collaboration with designer Shania Letondeur.
This event marked Letondeur’s first public presentation of her work, which featured designs inspired by train passengers and constructed from everyday materials such as cardboard, plastic, and even a curtain sourced from a Woodridge op shop.
The individuals modelling the garments were actors who had previously worked in Moss’s films, many of which are set and filmed in Woodridge, highlighting a collaborative community spirit.
Queensland Rail’s Support and Public Acclaim
Queensland Rail expressed its enthusiasm for the initiative, noting it was a rare and welcome use of their services. A spokesperson for Queensland Rail stated that the train was decorated throughout with Moss’s artwork, offering a distinctive artistic experience.
The public reaction to the moving exhibition has been overwhelmingly positive. Many found the concept inspiring and lauded the partnership between the artist and Queensland Rail.
Comments highlighted the originality of the idea and suggested that such events could become a regular occurrence, perhaps featuring multiple artists and live music, with an admission fee similar to established galleries. Community members also voiced hopes for the artwork’s protection and opportunities for Moss to sell his pieces. Several individuals who knew Moss personally spoke highly of his talent and character.
Jake Moss is a multidisciplinary artist who works across visual art, film, theatre, and literature. He is one of eleven siblings and has openly shared details about his background, including his experiences with homelessness and his unique childhood. He has also been recognised for his work with community organisations.
Looking Ahead
This creative collaboration between a local artist and Queensland Rail demonstrates the potential for public spaces to become accessible platforms for art and cultural expression.
The success of “Something I Should Have Done A Long Time Ago” could inspire similar initiatives in the future, fostering artistic engagement within the community.
Published Date 05-Jun-2025