On the Edge
Nina Shadforth takes to the hills to find they are about to come alive for this year’s Sculpture on the Edge
Sculpture on the Edge is an outdoor sculpture prize held on the escarpment of the stunning Sunshine Coast hinterland town of Maleny. Held annually at Spicers Tamarind Retreat it attracts renowned artists from all around Australia and invites visitors to immerse themselves in the picturesque 18-acre property which provides a unique setting for the artwork and installations.
The beauty of site-specific art such as this is that it draws us to particular places for their unique environmental qualities and thus further engages us in conversations pertaining to the surroundings in which they are installed.
As well as being interesting to observe, art in-situ can also prompt broader discussions on local and global environmental concerns, like climate change, human impact and First Nations reconciliation and healing.
Sculpture on the Edge (SOTE) was established in Maleny, initially beginning as an adjunct program under the Maleny Garden Club’s Open Gardens Festival during 2010. It was such a successful component of their program, that the following year it became a stand alone event sponsored by the Spicer’s Group – with the inaugural festival held at Spicers Clovelly Estate. In 2012 and auspiced under the community arts organisation: Arts Connect Inc, the festival moved to the lush gardens of Spicer’s Tamarind Retreat where it has been staged ever since.
A visit to what is one of Queensland’s largest outdoor sculpture exhibitions with up to 40 sculptures by local and interstate artists is a great day out.
Wander through the rainforest paths and open gardens; book for lunch or order a picnic basket from The Tamarind Restaurant and take time out with family and friends. Tea and scones are available every day and there’s even a treasure hunt for the kids. If you come on a Sunday, there will also be Jazz playing in the restaurant.
Artist applications are open until 1 October with a $10,000 first prize, $1,000 Encouragement Award and $500 People’s Choice Award. The artworks will also be for sale for the keen collector.
Nothing short of exceptional, to complete a day’s outing with family and friends – including the canine friends (on a lead) – SOTE is a ‘must do’ addition to your social calendar!
Sculpture on the Edge
22 October – 7 November
Artist entries close: 1 October
Exhibition dates: 22 October – 7 November
Open Daily from 9am-4pm
FREE exhibition
Spicers Tamarind Retreat, 88 Obi Lane South, Maleny
Don’t Miss!
Awards Night and Official Opening
Friday 22 October, 4pm-7pm
Includes welcome drink and Asian-inspired travelling feast in the gardens of Spicers Tamarind.
Tickets: $75
Bookings Essential: www.sculptureontheedge.com.au
