Come and feel the sand between your toes as you meander along Cottesloe Beach and celebrate the 21st anniversary of Sculpture
by the Sea, as it returns for 18 days of art, creativity and community this March.
The much-loved outdoor exhibition, one of Australia’s largest free public events, attracts more than 250,000 local, interstate and international visitors each year.
The exhibition is returning thanks to grant funding from the Australian government, delivered by Austrade of $750,000 a year for the 2026 and 2027 Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe exhibitions.
Artistic director and founding CEO, David Handley said it was wonderful to see the event return.
“Each year it is a very special feeling to see the connection between the people of Perth and the sculptures created by artists from across Australia and around the world,” he said.
“I would like to sincerely thank Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Federal Trade and Tourism Minister, Don Farrell for making the federal funding available. Without their personal support, the exhibition simply would not have happened.”
This year’s event will feature more than 70 sculptures, with many of the works never previously exhibited.
More than 30 Western Australian artists will showcase their creations, alongside artists from seven countries, including 11 from Japan and four from Denmark.
Cottesloe Beach will once again transform into a spectacular open-air gallery, offering visitors the chance to stroll along the sand, meander the boardwalk and experience large-scale artworks set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
The event continues to draw thousands of people all eager to enjoy Perth’s warm March weather and vibrant arts scene.
In addition to the beachside exhibition, a concurrent indoor display will be held at the Sea View Golf Club, featuring 120 smaller contemporary sculptures by exhibiting artists. The free indoor exhibition will be open daily from 9.30am to 5.30pm, with entry via Jarrad and Broome Streets. Many of the smaller works will be available for purchase.
Handley said the enthusiasm of visitors, especially children, continues to inspire him.
“To have an idea that captures the imagination of artists globally – who then create artworks that excite and inspire such a large proportion of the people of Perth and south-west Western Australia – is a humbling privilege.
“That sense of connection is what brings me back each year, and what drives our Board and colleagues to persist through the ongoing funding challenges to ensure this remarkable free public event continues,” he said.
Sculpture by the Sea runs from March 6 to 23 at Cottesloe Beach.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the nearby restaurants, cafés and bars along Marine Parade for a complete seaside experience.
