The Shell Cove PromenART Sculpture Walk is back this year with an even more captivating display, featuring over 50 artworks along the scenic Shellharbour Marina at The Waterfront, Shell Cove. The exhibition will be open to the public until October 30.

Building on last year’s success, the number of sculptures has been expanded by 25%, offering visitors a more immersive experience. The artistic trail, presented by ARTPark, winds its way through the picturesque marina’s pathways and boardwalks, with each sculpture accompanied by a QR code providing details about the piece and its artist.

Many works reflect the stunning oceanside setting of Shell Cove. Notable pieces include three bronzes from Mela Cooke’s The Swimmers series, capturing women preparing to dive into the water. Also on display is Tobias Bennett’s striking Hungry Egret, a towering 4.5-metre sculpture made from steel pipe, which stands as the tallest piece in the exhibit.

One of the standout highlights is Michael Van Dam’s Earth’s Custodian, a massive 900kg stainless steel and chain sculpture valued at $224,000. At the more accessible end of the price range, Andrew Kasper’s 105kg Fire, a weathered steel work standing at 195cm, is priced at $8,890.

All sculptures are available for purchase, catering to both private collectors and corporate buyers. In addition, several artists are open to creating custom, bespoke pieces for interested patrons. Proceeds from the sales go directly to the artists, further supporting the creative community.

Beyond the sculptures, the PromenART Sculpture Walk, sponsored by Frasers Property Australia and Shellharbour City Council, offers a lively program of live music every Saturday from 11am to 2pm, featuring talented local musicians like Mark Crotti, Glenn Whitehall, Jack Willis, and Blessie Pica.

The event also boasts large-scale murals created by local community groups and artists along the eastern edge of the marina. Among the muralists is Claire Foxton, renowned for her 14-metre depiction of Matildas’ star Caitlin Foord on Wollongong Central. Foxton will be adding a new piece to this year’s mural collection.

During the October school holidays, the Make Your Mark Youth Mural Painting Sessions will give young artists aged 8 to 18 the chance to contribute to a new mural at the northern end of Shellharbour Marina. The concept, developed by aspiring artists during July’s holiday program under the guidance of local artist Tegan Georgette, will come to life over three days between October 2 and 10.

Students from Shell Cove Public School and Stella Maris Catholic Primary School will also collaborate on a mural in Shellharbour Village, showcasing the community’s youthful creativity.

According to Mathew Gulliver, Development Director of The Waterfront, Shell Cove, the PromenART Sculpture Walk is well on its way to becoming a signature event on the NSW arts calendar, attracting both locals and visitors alike.

“Shell Cove has natural beauty in abundance and now it’s also fast developing its own cultural identity through events like this along with the likes of markets, community groups and programs. It’s all part of what makes this community the full package,” Gulliver said.

For details about the Youth Mural Painting Sessions email [email protected]

For more information about the Sculpture Walk and its surrounding events visit www.promenart.com.au

Become a Good Neighbour

Support your local by giving great journalism a helping hand