Sculpture by the Sea

 The most spectacular

 outdoor exhibition in the world

Now in its tenth year, Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi 2006 is Australia's largest annual outdoor free-to-the-public exhibition of contemporary sculpture.

The unique coastal landscape is transformed by the 'Sculpture by the Sea' into a vibrant walking experience. Over 100 exhibits come from all over Australia and from 15 countries around the world, and more than 400,000 visitors come to 'Sculpture by the Sea'.

As the founder of 'Sculpture by the Sea' realized when he walked the coast walk- "Just as these rocks are sculpted by the elements, what better place to stage man-made sculptures?"

The Coast Walk where 'Sculpture by the Sea' is held, between Bondi beach and Tamarama, with its cliffs, caves and rock ledges is an ideal stage for showing off sculpture.

The sight of the sea, the sound of the waves breaking on the rocks and the movement of the wind combine to enhance the works of visual art.

Some 'Sculpture by the Sea' artists select a special place on the rocks which is just right for them, as if the pieces have been washed in by the sea.

Some 'Sculpture by the Sea' artists make use of the sea, and their displays are made up of floating material anchored to the sea-bed (like one that was inflatable and represented a woman floating on her back with only a few parts above the water!).

 David Handley – founder of 'Sculpture by the Sea'

Formerly a lawyer with a Masters of Law degree from London University, David Handley abandoned a promising legal career to enter the arts world. He traveled, and lived for a time in Prague where he discovered a photographic exhibition in an outdoor setting there, and back in Sydney in 1997, walking the Coast walk, he had a vision for an event that embodied his ideas and aspirations - Sculpture by the Sea.

Ten weeks after that initial inspiration, the first 'Sculpture by the Sea' exhibition was held. It only ran for one day, and on a miniscule PR budget of $400, it attracted 25,000 people.

Educationally, 'Sculpture by the Sea' offers the ideal opportunity for all students and sculptors to take part in an organized program which is an affordable visual arts experience that is both educative and enjoyable; and to work directly with practising contemporary artists outside of the classroom.  'Sculpture by the Sea' encourages the development of sculptural knowledge, skills and experiences.

 'Sculpture by the Sea' Awards

Since the inception of  'Sculpture by the Sea' in 1997, Sydney Water is the founding sponsor and has provided a major prize for the exhibition - 'The Sydney Water Sculpture Prize'. It is awarded to recognize the use of wind, waves, solar power, or other aspects of the natural environment. The winning sculpture is subsequently purchased and located in a public place to be enjoyed. The winner of the inaugural Sydney Water prize was Tommy Pershall (USA) for his sculpture "Urban American in Australia".

Other prizes are awarded by the 'Sculpture by the Sea' directors, the National Australia Bank, The Art Gallery of NSW, and prizes go to winners in the 'site specific' category, the people's popular choice winner, the kids choice winner, and the 'young artist' under 29 years.

  Come and visit us. Find out how to make money for travel!