IT’S GAME ON AT THE STATE LIBRARY OF QUEENSLAND

Deputy Premier Paul Lucas today launched the international exhibition GAME ON at the State Library of Queensland and invited Queenslanders to come and play.

“GAME ON, a touring exhibition from London’s prestigious Barbican Art Gallery, celebrates the pop culture phenomenon of gaming,” Mr Lucas said.

“It looks at the design, art, politics and evolution involved in video gaming.

“With more than 100 playable games, as well as rarely-seen consoles, controllers and collectables, this is a showcase of games history like no other.

“Congratulations to State Library of Queensland for presenting GAME ON, and thanks to the Queensland University of Technology for being the presenting partner.

“The State Library has successfully secured this international hit for its second and final presentation in Australia and I am sure that Queensland audiences will show their support in full force.”

Mr Lucas said the GAME ON exhibition had so far been seen by over one million people worldwide.

“This interactive exhibition will enliven the Cultural Centre this summer,” he said.

“Given Queensland is home to some of the world’s most innovative game development companies, this is an ideal time and place to celebrate and discuss this vibrant industry.

“Internationally best-selling games The Lord of the Rings: Conquest, Star Wars and Hellboy were all developed in Brisbane.

State Librarian Lea Giles-Peters said since the State Library of Queensland’s redevelopment in 2006, it has become well established as a place of learning for the 21^st century.

“Seven out of every ten visitors to the State Library are aged under thirty-five years and come because the State Library’s digital collection and resources have made learning and sharing knowledge so accessible,” Ms Giles-Peters said.

GAME ON is organised by the Barbican Art Gallery in London and the State Library of Queensland. For a full program of GAME ON events go to www.slq.qld.gov.au.

Media contact: Chelsea Toomey 0408 701 409