Sculpture by the Sea to remain in Bondi

24 April 2020 | Media Release

24 April 2020

Waverley Council is pleased to announce that Sculpture by Sea has signed a license agreement with the Council to remain in Bondi.

The license agreement is for a five-year term with an option of a further five years for the Sculpture by the Sea event commencing this year.

Mayor of Waverley, Paula Masselos, said the agreement is an important step forward in the future of the world-class sculpture event.

“Waverley Council will continue to monitor what impact COVID-19 measures in NSW will have on public events in the future, but for the meantime, we just want to congratulate Sculpture by the Sea for moving forward in this new chapter,” Mayor Masselos said.

“Our Council has provided in-kind support for the event for the past 23 years, and we look forward to this year’s event in whatever exciting form it takes.

“Our iconic coastal walk from Bondi to Tamarama Beach and Marks Park community headland park provided a stunning backdrop for so many years and we’d like to see this continue.

“I would like to congratulate Waverley Council officers for negotiating a license that works for both parties and gives artists from around the world the opportunity to continue to showcase their cutting-edge works".

Mayor Masselos pictured in 2019 with Victorian artist Jimmy Rix's sculpture Waiting for Rain, announced as the recipient of the $5000 Mayor's Prize for Sculpture by the Sea 2019. Mayor Masselos described Waiting for Rain as "an uplifting depiction of the strength of the Aussie bush again the backdrop of a land ravaged by drought".

Founding Director of Sculpture by the Sea, David Handley AM, said the event is all about hope.

“We hope to be able to stage the exhibition this spring.  Like everyone, we hope life in Australia and the world returns, as much as possible, to normal as soon as possible,” Mr Handley said.

“With many artists asking us if the exhibition is going ahead and wanting to make sculptures to exhibit we have hope for the future and are excited to be planning to stage the exhibition for many thousands of people to enjoy. In the meantime, we hope that everyone stays safe and well.”

Media inquiries: Waverley Council, media@waverley.nsw.gov.au or 0416 075 532

Sculpture by the Sea: NIXCo / Harriet Dixon-Smith, harriet@nixco.com.au or 8399 0626