Sculpture by the Sea (SBTS) is a much-anticipated Sydney event. For two weeks each October, over 100 exceptional artworks dot the 2km Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk. I am not the only one drawn to this this stunning event. Over half a million people attend.
Spoil yourself
Give yourself plenty of time to immerse. Even if you find a carpark it will likely be far away from the start point and only provide two hours, meaning you will need to rush away. Leave the car and take one of the many Number 333 buses to Bondi. Locals already fighting the heavy traffic bemoan ‘how many 333 buses can you fit on Bondi Road?’ Answer: More than you’d think possible. They also complain of the added stress the event puts on parking. As a local, I know the camel’s back was flattened years ago but view it from a different perspective. I feel privileged that I live nearby and get this yearly treat for myself and visiting friends and relatives.
Take a water bottle – there are refill stations en route.
Visit on a weekday. Earlier is better and treat yourself to breakfast! Bondi Icebergs has the best beach view but of course there are ample other choices.
Abstract, real or just plain quirky
The variety means it is hard to pick a favourite work. I am more a fan of the quirky and real rather than the abstract. I have never been attracted to those bulky rusty iron works which always seem to get a showing. I prefer the more realistic as I try imagine the motivation and mind of the artist.
The banana shark creator is really on to something. I see a theme emerging and the possibilities are endless. A real Jack in the Box? Lady Di? Genghis Khan? All fearsome in their own way.
The Spaceman observes us and marvels that we have oxygen, water, a pleasant climate and so much more denied to him.
And the ants do not think about us at all except perhaps a passing muse that their future generations will be happily toiling long after we humans leave forever.
Location location location
These sculptures could be appreciated as works within a gallery, but the striking coastal terrain lifts them to a higher sphere. All are for sale. Somehow, I am sure there is a bit of buyer’s regret when the shine fades from big buddha or big lizard when mounted in the corner of a Vaucluse backyard rather than against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Man or God
Despite human passion poured into these magnificent creations, sometimes nature wins out. The following picture shows a sculpture totally diminished by a resplendent spread of pigface flowers. They are putting on a stunning show while quietly going about their role of stabilising coastal soil.
Cultural interpretations
International artists are well represented. My favourite abstract was by an Indian. Although simple it conveys the peaceful flowing lines of Moghul architecture.
But for the Aussies it’s childhood memories of the beach. In this setting it works well.
All good things end
The walk finishes on Tamarama beach. It’s shoes off and onto the sand where there is always something zany to cap off the experience.
Inspired and armed with a bucket and spade, these kids are about to start their own creations watched by a happy snorkeler.
Bondi does not have it all
Another famous beach, Cottesloe in Western Australia, also has Sculpture by the Sea. Sadly in 2025 it was cancelled due to a lack of government funding. It is planned to return in 2026. I would love to hear a report on this exhibition to see how it compares.
Founded in 1997 by David Handley, Sculpture by the Sea began as a one-day exhibition run by volunteers on a shoestring budget of $11,000. Today, it stands as the world’s largest free-to-the-public outdoor sculpture exhibition. It honors an ancient human tradition: using the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Sydney’s coastline as a canvas for storytelling, far more dramatic to anything a modern gallery could achieve.
Muz lives in Sydney. When not conducting investigations he divides his time between travel adventures, backgammon, family and luring dumb fish to their demise.