The fences are still up, but the $14 million Ouroboros briefly flickered to life this week as the lights were tested for the first time.
Seen in this video, Lindy Lee's epic masterpiece shone into the gathering dusk on Tuesday night as technicians tested the lights for the first time in situ.
The 13 tonnes of highly polished scrap metal is the result of years of planning and a massive feat of engineering, and Lee's vision took shape in a Brisbane foundry.
Perforated with tens of thousands of hand-cut holes, the sculpture - representing a snake eating its own tail - will sparkle at night.
By day, it will reflect the world around it.
Ouroboros is the most expensive artwork ever commissioned by a public institution in Australia.
It will be unveiled to the public next week, on October 25.