The Sydney Harbour Bridge
The Sydney Harbour Bridge opened in 1932 and was seen as a ‘symbol of modernity’ as it was a sign of ‘technological prowess’ and showed Sydney’s progression from a convict agrarian settlement to a modern metropolis. The role of the Bridge has diversified over the decades, initially being regarded as a functional transport link between North Sydney and the City.
In order for the Bridge to be constructed areas on the North and South of the Harbour had to be demolished to make way for the ‘forward march of progress’. As progress was embraced, the Bridge was built and provided Sydney with the ability to progress from an agrarian settlement to an industrial and modern city. Sydney was seen to be the Australian version of New York which was also a symbol of ‘urban progress’.
Structurally the Bridge has never changed but has taken on multiple meanings. These include: a place for suicide as it was a ‘dramatic way to die’, protests such as the Reconciliation Walk (2000) where the Bridge was used symbolically to ‘bridge’ the gap between Aboriginals and non-Aboriginals, subject of films and artworks, Earth Hour, background drops for the news to represent Sydney, weddings...
