Bridget Smyth is a distinguished recipient of this year’s Prize and is outstanding for her commitment to improving cities as places for people. This is demonstrated not only through her public projects but also in her collaborative approach to facilitating countless strategies, master plans and programs focused on urban transformation. Bridget’s approach to art, architecture and urban design are in sympathy with the vision of Marion Mahony Griffin in many ways. Importantly she has involved herself in a broad range of cultural, educational and professional activities that extend beyond her professional practice.
Bridget has been Design Director for the City of Sydney since 2001, providing strong leadership in the transformation of Sydney and the shaping of the city’s sustainable future. In particular she has been one of the key drivers behind the promotion of public art as a major enhancement of the urban environment.