Carved in Stone by Archie Moore examines the significance of Latin and English words carved in stone on the facades of buildings and official documents. The stones used in the construction of these buildings, including tuff stone from the Kangaroo Point Cliffs, may have once contained ancient Aboriginal rock art or markings. The permanence and unalterability of text carved into stone elevates its status and importance, embodying the beliefs, morals, and ideals of an individual, family, or institution. However, the artwork questions the notion of permanence, as the only constant in life is impermanence.

The artwork invites the audience to engage with the concept through their senses, creating an immersive experience. "Carved In Stone 2021" reexamines the meaning of the text, bringing new life to seemingly forgotten phrases and highlighting the ongoing presence of history. Moore challenges us to consider the landscape as a repository of history, preserving memories and layers of the past, and raises the question of whether new meaning can be created from the remnants of destruction.

The artwork was animated so the letters appeared to chisel themselves into the rock, creating an illusion of pieces of rock flying off as the words took form on the projected surface of the cliffs at Howard Smith Wharves. The result is a stunning display of art and technology, reminding us of the power of words and the timeless nature of history.

Developed as a part of Brisbane City Council’s Indigenous Art Program 2021 curated by Blaklash.