Calling artists nationwide! Don’t miss the chance for your artwork to be featured at Sculpture in the Garden Wollongong in 2027.
Expressions of interest are now open to artists living in Australia for the outdoor exhibition at Wollongong Botanic Garden. There will be 20 artists chosen for the biennial event, which will run from 20 March to 28 April 2027, with each finalist receiving $1,500 towards costs.
A significant prize pool of $53,000 will be on offer for the selected artists, including the Acquisitive Sculpture Prize now valued at $40,000 (up $10,000 from 2025), as well as the $3,000 People’s Choice Award, and a $10,000 Ephemeral Prize.
The winning Acquisitive Prize sculpture will also be added to Council’s Public Art Collection.
Lord Mayor of Wollongong Councillor Tania Brown said this is a wonderful opportunity for artists to make their mark in Wollongong, especially at one of our city’s most treasured open spaces.
“It’s no secret how loved the Wollongong Botanic Garden is. The natural beauty coupled with the varied collections will always make for a lovely visit, which I do quite often,” Cr Brown said.
“I can attest that Sculpture in the Garden Wollongong has been a great addition to Wollongong’s event calendar, drawing many visitors from near and far. With such a unique environment, the exhibition has done a tremendous job to enrich people’s experience with art.
“I strongly encourage artists to apply. This exhibition has given great exposure for artists, sparking curiosity in those who wouldn’t normally interact with art. If you’ve a sculpture that you’re itching to get out there, please don’t miss this opportunity.”
More than 66,000 people visited the exhibition in 2025 , with Melbourne artist Jenny Reddin claiming the Acquisitive Prize for her work Affinity, that is now on display at the Garden. It also saw the launch of the new Ephemeral Prize for temporary works which was awarded to Stephanie Quirk for her work I Belong Under the Sun, You Belong Under the Sun, while Dr Virginia Keft (Muruwari) was the People’s Choice winner for her work Nuwa ganda (Look up).
Applications are now open until 10pm, Monday 31 August 2026.
