Sculpture by the Sea returns for its 27th edition to the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk. The outdoor art show is on now until Monday 3 November. You’re invited to enjoy a leisurely 2km stroll along the waterfront and take in artworks by Australian and International artists in ‘the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition, featuring more than 90 works from artists across 13 countries’.
Because of the volume of visitors expected the festival encourages you to arrive by public transport. However if you have individual needs they advise Marks Park as the accessible drop-off and pick-up zone, located at the corner of Kenneth Street and Marks Lane. It is a flat area which features a large portion of the sculptures.
The organisers have also mapped out ‘easy routes’ for walking. The Blue route is a walking tour designed for those who prefer to avoid stairs or long distances, focusing on Marks Park, where you’ll find the Sculpture Inside gallery, featuring artists’ smaller works, along with accessible toilets. Where as the Purple route is for visitors comfortable with some stairs, moderate slopes, and walking over 1km.
There is a wealth of art work to see, such as “Splotcher” by Australian artist Tim Storrier AM who is participating for the first time. It is a whimsical and large piece, over 2m high, which the festival says ‘hints at a self-portrait. Beneath the whimsy lies the universal anguish of the artist (and of us all).’
Other remarkable works include Geraldo Zamproni’s piece ‘Vital Threads’, a larger than life needle made from resin, PVC and automotive paint, more than 4m tall the needle appears to puncture the rocks near Marks Park.
For the animal lovers among us, see if you can find the Water Dragon by Andrew Cullen, playful Dolphins from Drew McDonald and a rainbow Grass Snake from Sharyn Egan!
Cullen’s work is designed to prompt us to reflect on uncertain futures, as the festival says the artwork is ‘crafted from reclaimed timber, this towering water dragon embodies adaptability in the face of changing waters with its poised stance mirrors nature’s resilience.’ Where as the dolphins jumping over the toaster have a more light-hearted feel, with the event noting the artist draws inspiration from Dada, Surrealism, and Pop Art, to ‘transform familiar icons and creatures into playful and absurd amalgamations that challenge perception and spark curiosity.’
Egan’s sculpture came to life in the first four days of the presentation where visitors were invited to help weave sections of the python on site; the choice of subject has totemic significance for the Nyoongar people.
This Sunday evening 26th October the sculptures on Tamarama beach will be lit up until 9:30pm. Also during the day there will be artist talks;
10:00am: James Rogers – Marks Park, site 46
10:30am: Chris Atichian – Tamarama, site 75
11:00am: Shovin Bhattacharjee – Tamarama, site 84
12:30pm: Cui Yi – Tamarama, site 87
1:00pm: Hamish Petrie – Marks Park, site 26
1:30pm: Dale Miles – Marks Park, site 18
Enjoy art outdoors!