The iconic Sculpture by the Sea 2025 exhibition has officially opened along Sydney’s breathtaking Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, marking the triumphant return of the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition. Nearly cancelled at the last minute due to funding and logistical challenges, the event has made a stunning comeback, drawing artists and visitors from across Australia and the world.
A Global Celebration of Creativity
Running from October 17 to November 3, 2025, this year’s edition of Sculpture by the Sea features more than 100 sculptures from international and local artists, transforming Sydney’s coastline into a dynamic open-air art gallery. The exhibition, which has been a cultural highlight since 1997, celebrates artistic innovation, environmental awareness, and community spirit.
Artists from over 20 countries, including Japan, South Korea, the United States, New Zealand, and Spain, are showcasing works that explore themes of sustainability, resilience, and human connection. From towering steel installations to delicate glass and stone creations, the collection represents a blend of contemporary design and traditional craft.
A Near Cancellation Turned Triumph
The 2025 event almost didn’t happen. Organizers faced significant financial hurdles earlier this year, with rising costs threatening to shut down the long-running exhibition. However, renewed sponsorship and community support helped save the event in time for the spring season.
David Handley, the founding director of Sculpture by the Sea, praised the public’s enthusiasm: “It’s a testament to how much this event means to Sydney and Australia. It’s more than art—it’s about community, culture, and our connection to the environment.”
The revival has brought renewed energy to Sydney’s arts scene, which has been recovering from pandemic-era disruptions and ongoing funding challenges in the creative sector.
Half a Million Visitors Expected
Organizers expect close to 500,000 visitors to attend the exhibition over its two-week run, making it one of Australia’s largest cultural gatherings. The coastal trail from Bondi to Tamarama offers an unparalleled backdrop, with sculptures placed along cliffs, beaches, and walking paths, inviting spectators to engage with the artworks in a natural setting.
Tourism NSW predicts that the event will generate millions in economic benefits for Sydney’s hospitality and tourism industries. Local businesses, cafes, and hotels along the Bondi strip are already seeing a surge in bookings and foot traffic.
Highlight Works and Artists to Watch
This year’s Sculpture by the Sea 2025 features standout works from both established and emerging artists:
- Keizo Ushio (Japan) presents a monumental stone loop that symbolizes the infinite connection between people and nature.
- Lucy Humphrey (Australia) returns with a breathtaking glass installation that refracts sunlight and ocean waves, creating a shifting kaleidoscope of color.
- David Černý (Czech Republic) brings a thought-provoking metallic structure exploring urban isolation and technology’s impact on identity.
- Caroline Rothwell (Australia) unveils a climate-focused piece made from recycled industrial materials, emphasizing sustainability in modern art.
Environmental and Cultural Impact
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Sculpture by the Sea continues to advocate for environmental preservation. Many installations are made from recycled or biodegradable materials, aligning with global sustainability goals. The event also works closely with local Indigenous communities, ensuring that First Nations voices and cultural heritage are represented through art and storytelling.
Educational programs and artist talks are scheduled throughout the exhibition period, offering visitors insight into artistic techniques, environmental issues, and creative expression.
Accessibility and Community Engagement
Entry to Sculpture by the Sea remains free, maintaining its legacy as an inclusive event for all ages. The exhibition’s open-air format allows visitors to enjoy art in a relaxed, natural environment while supporting Australia’s thriving creative community.
Organizers have also enhanced accessibility, providing designated paths, viewing platforms, and guided tours for individuals with mobility challenges.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sculpture by the Sea
As it approaches its 28th year, Sculpture by the Sea continues to expand its reach and influence. Future plans include satellite exhibitions across regional Australia and international collaborations to showcase Australian artists on the world stage.
Despite the financial and logistical obstacles it faced this year, the 2025 edition stands as a testament to the resilience of the arts and the unifying power of creativity.
Final Thoughts
Sculpture by the Sea 2025 is more than an art exhibition—it’s a celebration of imagination, nature, and community. From sunrise to sunset, the coastal walk from Bondi to Tamarama transforms into a living canvas that connects people from every corner of the world through the universal language of art.
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