Sculpture in the Garden returns in 2023

The 2023 Sculpture in the Garden returns to the Wollongong Botanic Garden later this month and promises to be another exciting event for lovers of outdoor art in public spaces.

The display is our biggest one yet, with 25 thought-provoking sculptures created by local, national and international artists and on exhibition throughout the Garden.

The works will be on display for six weeks, with an engaging program of free events also on offer.

“This will be the fourth “Sculpture in the Garden” event at the Wollongong Botanic Garden and it’s shaping up to be fantastic experience,’’ Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said.

“As well as the fascinating mix of sculptures to see, there are workshops, talks, guided walks, music and other events on offer which all add to the experience viewing the artworks in the Garden. Plus, there is the opportunity to participate in creating a collaborative sculpture using clay and natural materials with Sculptor in Residence Julie Nash. It’s going to be a fun artistic experience involving all ages and skill levels.’’

Sculpture in the Garden runs from 18 March until 30 April, and it’s anticipated more than 30,000 people will walk through the Garden’s gates at one of its seven different entry points, which include the pedestrian entries on Murphys or Northfields Avenues.

On Thursday 23 March, the winner of the acquisitive prize will be announced, with the winning sculpture being added to the city’s public art collection. Previous winners include Fatih Semiz for Curious Dream of an Architect, Michael Purdy for Steel City and Louis Pratt for King Coal.

“Sculpture in the Garden has become an important part of the Wollongong Botanic Garden’s events calendar and its popularity has grown as the event has evolved since 2016,’’ Cr Bradbery said.

‘’We’re expecting a record number of people to come into the Garden this year to enjoy the experience of engaging with sculptures and the associated events and activities. The Garden holds a special place in many people’s hearts and are used for social activities, family gathering and relaxation. The fact that people will also be able to see some new public art will be an additional reason to visit over the six-week exhibition.’’

Sculpture in the Garden essential information

• From 18 March until 30 April 2023
• Wollongong Botanic Garden, Keiraville
• Free and open daily from
  • 7am-6pm weekdays and 7am-6.45pm weekends and public holidays until 1 April.
  • From 2 April from 7am-5pm daily)
  • Note: The Garden is closed on Good Friday
• Details of the workshops and events are available on Council’s website.

Some of the workshop highlights

Sculptor in Residence - The Fragile Forest – Drop in event.

See Council’s website for session times

Contribute to Julie Nash's ephemeral sculpture which will grow over the exhibition period. You will work with clay and natural materials and add to the work to express the contrasting characteristics of our natural forest environments. This work is about the fragility and vulnerability of our plant life. Each small work created by you will represent a tree or plant and will be grouped together to form a forest, emphasising growth and protection.

Creative Ark Children and Young People's workshops - WILD NESTS – Drop-in event

See Council’s website for session times

Join us for a 'drop in' workshop where fantasy meets zoology. Inspired by the best nest builders like birds and possums, you will create your own nest-crown or small habitat. Make an amazing animal home using sticks, twigs, bark, flowers, mosses and vines - share with the animals or wear it as a crown. You could even sculpt tiny clay animals to live in your creation.

Sculpted Sounds - Final day Celebration

Visit our Sculpture in the Garden exhibition on its final day and enjoy our free music gig featuring Freyja Garbett, The Bearded Cat and Night Diver with something for all ages and musical tastes from 1-4pm on Sunday 30 April on the Turpentine Lawn just west of the education centre (Madoline St entrance).

See Council’s website for session times