The 26th edition of Sculpture by the Sea, Bondi, has opened its doors, showcasing a spectacular range of sculptures along the 2km coastal walk between Bondi and Tamarama. Amongst the 100 artworks on display from 16 different countries, the Indian Showcase stands out with 12 pieces created by a mix of Indian and Indian diaspora artists. The showcase, forged through a collaborative effort between Indian and Australian cultural organisations, includes works from eight Indian artists, such as Professor Avantika Bawa and Dr. Subodh Kerkar, as well as diaspora artists Niharika Hukku and Shaumyika Sharma.
Sculpture by the Sea has become a landmark cultural event, attracting around 450,000 visitors over its 18-day run, all eager to experience world-class sculptures in one of Australia’s most scenic outdoor settings. This year’s exhibition highlights the importance of cultural exchange and collaboration, reflected through the support of the Centre for Australia-India Relations, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, the Howarth Foundation, and the Consulate General of India.
The Indian Showcase offers a diverse array of themes, styles, and materials, reflecting the rich artistic traditions of India while also engaging with contemporary issues. Professor Avantika Bawa’s minimalist approach contrasts with the conceptual explorations of Shovin Bhattacharjee, while Dr. Subodh Kerkar’s pieces delve into historical narratives. Niharika Hukku and Shaumyika Sharma, representing the Indian diaspora in Australia, provide a bridge between cultures, further enhancing the diplomatic and creative ties between the two nations.
A major talking point of this year’s event is the awarding of the $100,000 Aqualand Sculpture Award to Chinese artist Professor Shen Lieyi for his work, ‘Tracing’. Crafted from bronze and granite, the 3m-high piece evokes the metaphor of walking upstream, symbolising the search for origins and deeper meaning. The Aqualand Sculpture Award, regarded as one of the most prestigious in the world, has seen its prize value increase from $70,000 to $100,000, underscoring the continued investment in the arts by its sponsor Aqualand. Shen Lieyi’s third participation in the exhibition has now cemented his reputation on the international stage.
Beyond the Indian and Chinese contributions, the exhibition also features celebrated Australian sculptors such as James Rogers, Stephen King, and Patricia McTaggart Marrfurra OAM. For Rogers, this marks his 20th time exhibiting at the event, an achievement recognised by his induction into the Double Decade Club. Meanwhile, Paul Bacon and Takeshi Tanabe of Japan join the Decade Club for their decade-long commitment to the exhibition.
Other notable mentions include the Helen Lempriere Scholarship recipients, Justene Williams, Jennifer Cochrane, and Joel Adler, each receiving substantial funding to continue their artistic pursuits. Likewise, artists from Japan, Switzerland, South Korea, and Denmark are also contributing to the diversity of this year’s event, with a particular emphasis on supporting Ukrainian artists, including Yevgen Prymachenko.
Sculpture by the Sea continues to draw international attention, not only for the high calibre of its artworks but for its accessible, public format that allows both locals and tourists to engage with large-scale sculptures in an open setting. As Aqualand’s Managing Director, Jin Lin, stated, “Creativity and vibrant communities go hand in hand,” a sentiment echoed by the exhibition’s CEO and Artistic Director, David Handley.
Running until 4 November, this year’s event solidifies Sculpture by the Sea as a crucial platform for global artistic dialogue, with the Indian Showcase adding another layer of depth to this cultural celebration.
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