Every September, thousands of art lovers will flock to the sandy shores of Currumbin beach on the stunning Gold Coast, as it’s transformed into an outdoor art gallery for the 17th annual SWELL Sculpture Festival.
This free, family-friendly, event runs from the 13th – 22nd September, where 50+ sculptures from local Australian and international artists will be on show across the 1km stretch of beach and along the broad walk.
The 10-day event showcases a great variety of installations and sculptures which offer an abundance of interactive experiences and free programs.
VISIT AN INFO HUB
Visit one of the many info hub’s located along the 1km walkway and purchase a $5 exhibition program. Purchasing the program helps support the SWELL festival, and all proceeds are reinvested back into the following year’s exhibition.
There’s plenty of information on artist talks and guided twilight walks, a mix of masterclass workshops for adults and kids hosted by participating artists, children’s weekend activities and a special pop-up screening of the documentary Rubber Jellyfish.
Vote for your favourite sculpture in the People’s and Kids Choice Award by placing your entry in one of the barrel’s at an info hub. The participating artists are in the running to take home a share of $27,500, with first place rewarded $15,000. They’re open daily from 9am-9pm.
A GLIMPSE AT THE ARTISTS
Participating international Iranian artist Shirin Abedinirad is just one of the many artist’s whose work is on display. ‘Tide’ is a conceptual piece, and like many of her artworks incorporates mirrors. When I asked what inspired her to create this artwork, Shirin explained that it is land art. “A collaboration between an artist and Mother Nature. This piece encourages viewers to challenge perception and take a good long look at themselves.”
Featured artwork “Tide” by Iranian artist Shirin Abedinirad
Images by: Jessica Munro
PARKING
There’s plenty of free parking options close to the beach, but, if finding parking close to the festival is tricky, a FREE shuttle bus runs from 9am-4pm on the weekends. The bus picks up approximately every 30 minutes from the carpark opposite Currumbin RSL and has various pick-up and drop-off points nearby.
Or park at the close by Currumbin Wildlife Park for $10 all day parking, where all proceeds from the parking go to the supporting the Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and Hospital.
SHOW OFF YOUR SKILLS
Show off your photography skills and enter the #SWELLsnap photo competition, judged by well-known local Gold Coast photographer Sean Scott.
GRAB A BITE TO EAT
Make a day of it and grab a bite to eat at one of the many nearby cafes’, pop-up food trucks or enjoy a meal from Currumbin RSL overlooking the beach, with views of the sparkling Gold Coast city skyline.
This event is great for the whole family and is sure to delight the creative side in all young and old.
For more info visit: http://www.swellsculpture.com.au/visitor-info
Moon Lane Media 