Sculpture on the Edge to grow to an 18-Day arts experience

Director Gretchen Keelty and Flaxton Gardens’ owner Alan Thompson.

Sculpture on the Edge, the renowned annual event, is set to take on a bigger role in the broader arts scene, according to Director Gretchen Keelty.

Now in its 13th year, the event continues to grow, showcasing a captivating exhibition of selected entries by artists from near and far. This year, the event will return to the picturesque Flaxton Gardens in November-December, offering an 18-day immersive creative experience for all to enjoy. The program will feature not only the annual exhibition but also workshops, artist talks, special events, and a diverse range of art forms.

“We’re growing Sculpture on the Edge into an 18-day event, based around the existing annual competition,” said Gretchen. 

“Our goal is to enable as many people as possible to immerse themselves in creativity. We have expanded the workshops program, catering to various artistic media and working with specialists in accessibility and disabilities. We will have Cheryl Nomnus from Paintbox and MonteLupo running programs. 

“Both specialise in working with people with disabilities, as well as working with adults and children. I really want everyone to be able to have fun!”

The event features indoor and outdoor sculptures, with the winning artist receiving the generous $10,000 first prize, donated by Flaxton Gardens. “(Flaxton Gardens owner) Alan Thompson deserves so much acknowledgment and support,” said Gretchen. “His support and generosity has been unwavering. And the venue itself features beautiful flat open spaces, it’s got lush manicured gardens and then this fabulous indoor hall as well. 

“So for the first time we were able to have indoor artworks and that made it more accessible for a lot of artists as well, because we could have smaller pieces made from delicate materials.”

Gretchen’s vision extends beyond the event itself. She sees the Sunshine Coast hinterland becoming the “heart of art” for southeast Queensland.  

“We’ve got so much to offer and we’ve already got an amazing program of great arts events going on all year so there’s no reason not to build on that association that is emerging.”

Entries open

Entries for the 2023 competition are now open, with a total of $22,000 in prizes up for grabs. Artists can submit their applications online at www.sculptureontheedge.com.au until August 31, seizing the opportunity to showcase their creative talents.

Workshops

• Cheryl Nomnus from Paintbox and MonteLupo will be running workshops about working with people with disabilities and working with adults and children.  

• Tina Cooper will cover ‘How to Grow Your Art Business’. 

• Nicole Voevodin-Cash on ‘How to Present Yourself for Opportunities as an Artist’. 

• Barry Alsop from Eyes Wide Open Images on ‘How to Photograph Your Artwork’. 

Prizes – non acquisitive

• Overall winner $10,000 sponsored by Flaxton Gardens

• Overall highly Commended Prize $5000 sponsored by the De Deyne Family

• Local Artist Prize $2000 sponsored by Illume Creations

• Reclaimed and recycled art $2000 sponsored by The Opal Cutter

• Artist’s Choice Peer Award $1000 sponsored by Tina Cooper Glass Gallery

• Emerging Artist Prize $1000 sponsored by Montville Art Gallery and Bodo Muche Studio

• People’s Choice Award $1000 sponsored by Montville Chamber & Hammond Optometry

• Voter’s Prize for People’s Choice accommodation package sponsored by Lovestone Cottages.