Sydney’s iconic coastal walk from Bondi to Tamarama again hosts Sculpture by the Sea, the world’s largest free public sculpture exhibition.
Over 100 sculptures by artists from Australia and other countries will adorn the stunning natural landscape for three weeks, transforming the well-traveled route into a vibrant 2 km-long outdoor gallery.
This year’s exhibition, from 18 October to 4 November 2024, marks a significant milestone for Sculpture by the Sea. The event celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2023 and has become a beloved fixture on Sydney’s cultural calendar, attracting up to half a million visitors annually.
Over the course of its history, what started out as a modest one-day event in 1997, organized by volunteers, with 64 artists participating, has developed into a significant international art event featuring the work of over 1,100 artists from 51 countries.
But Sculpture by the Sea is more than just a visual spectacle. The exhibition has a rich history, born from a desire to make art accessible to everyone. Founding Director David Handley aimed to create an event to break down the barriers sometimes associated with experiencing art, bringing sculptures out of the traditional gallery setting and into the public domain.
This commitment to accessibility remains at the heart of Sculpture by the Sea, ensuring that art lovers and casual passersby alike can engage with these incredible works.
Sculpture by the Sea has been crucial in promoting Australian sculpture over the past three decades. Many of the country’s most prominent sculptors, including figures like May Barrie, Bert Flugelman AM, and Ken Unsworth AM, have exhibited their work multiple times.
The exhibition’s increasing international profile has also attracted some of the biggest names in contemporary sculpture, with artists like Sir Anthony Caro from England, Sui Jian Guo from China, and David Černý from the Czech Republic participating in past years.
This year’s exhibition promises to be another captivating display of artistic talent, offering a unique opportunity to experience contemporary sculpture against Sydney’s breathtaking coastline.
Published Date 14-October-2024