Swell Sculpture Festival

The SWELL Sculpture Festival is an inspiring annual event that showcases awe-inspiring sculptures crafted by local, national, and international artists. Taking place in Wallace Nicoll Park, Currumbin, Australia, this festival serves as a platform for artists to exhibit their creations while engaging the community through unique experiences such as guided twilight walks, live music, comedy performances, masterclasses, artist talks, and workshops. The festival not only captivates the hearts and minds of visitors but also promotes a year-round collaboration with artists for public art projects.

In its recent offerings, the festival featured the second annual SWELL Art Prize, showcasing over 100 sculptures, paintings, and photographs from emerging and established artists across Australia. Notably, the event included sculptural workshops and soundscape experiences, alongside social gatherings like Waterlines at the Hinze Dam, which focused on land art and eco programming. The festival also presented larger-than-life installations and interactive experiences, such as a soundscape kayak tour. A highlight of the event was the live music performance by William Barton, an award-winning composer and didgeridoo player, who also led an intimate yarning circle. The SWELL Sculpture Festival has also been involved in significant events such as the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 Trophy Tour and the NAIDOC Week celebrations, showcasing community engagement and cultural recognition. The festival continues to honor the traditional custodians of the land, integrating Indigenous perspectives into its programming and performances.