SWELL Sculpture Festival, the largest outdoor art exhibition in Queensland, has revealed the 55 artists that will be taking part in the 2016 event, held in September on the Gold Coast.
Over a ten day period, Currumbin Beach will be transformed into a free outdoor gallery, featuring 50 works by both Australian and international artists. A mix of first timers and returning artists alike, SWELL fosters a collaborative, inclusive spirit. Now entering its 14th year, it has become an integral part of the Gold Coast arts scene.
“Each year, we are proud to present a unique, outdoor exhibition connecting people, art and place with the intention to inspire our audience with the diversity and quality of the works displayed, which range from whimsical and fun-spirited to pieces carrying a serious message of conservation,” says Natasha Edwards, SWELL director and curator.
Heading this year’s curatorial panel were Natasha Edwards, fellow director Ruth Della, Professor Derrick Cherrie from the Queensland College of Art, Simone Oriti of Urban Art Projects, and Dr Daniel Templeman from the Brisbane City Council.
Highlights this year include ‘Big Alphy’, otherwise known as The Alpha Turtle, a giant inflatable turtle from Far North Queensland artist BJ Price, an as-yet-unrevealed giant Scrabble word from Colombian based artist Emma Anna (it’s six letters and worth eleven points – place your bets now!), and Antidote, a collaborative piece between Gold Coast local Andrew Cullen and students from Helensvale State High School.
SWELL Sculpture Festival runs from September 9th to September 18th, at Currumbin Beach, on the Gold Coast. Entry is free.
For more information, please see the SWELL website.
Picture credit: See Life by John Cox (photo by Daniel Michaud)
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