Finalists revealed for University’s Sculpture Award and Exhibition

A 56-kilogram deer being pursued by a tiger and a two-and-a-half metre sandstone structure symbolising the perils of short term politics are just two of the stunning artworks announced as finalists in the Western Sydney University Sculpture Award and Exhibition (opens in a new window) for 2016.

In total there are 17 Australian and international works that will feature as part of this year's exhibition, which begins on Friday 6 May at the University's Campbelltown campus and can be viewed online via a virtual tour (opens in a new window).

University Art Curator, Ms Monica McMahon, says the Awards have attracted a stellar field of artists and artworks this year.

"The Sculpture Award and Exhibition continues to go from strength to strength, and we are seeing more and more entries from artists not only from around Australia but also from overseas," says Ms McMahon.

"Outdoor exhibitions are unique, in that they require a sculptor to take the viewer on a journey befitting the environment the artwork is set in.

"All artists have specifically designed their pieces to suit the picturesque rolling hills, lakes, woodlands and open spaces of the Campbelltown Campus. I think visitors to this year's exhibition will be suitably impressed."

A panel of judges will decide the category winners for the Western Sydney University Acquisitive prize, valued up to $30,000, and the Janice Reid Emerging Artist Award, valued at $5,000.

During the exhibition, visitors will also be asked to vote for their favourite sculpture, as part of the UrbanGrowth People's Choice Award. The winning artist will also receive $5,000.

The winner of the Western Sydney University Acquisitive prize will be permanently installed at the Campbelltown Campus, joining previous winning sculptures.

The exhibition is open to the community and runs until 5 June. Visitors are welcome to stroll through the campus parklands – even bring a picnic.

Tours and education kits for school groups can also be arranged. 

What:              Western Sydney University 2016 Sculpture Award and Exhibition

Where:           Campbelltown Campus, Narellan Road, Campbelltown

When:             Official Opening Friday 6 May (2:00pm – 4:30pm)

                         Exhibition runs until 5 June 2016

Hours:            Monday to Friday 9:00am – 5:00pm

                         Saturday to Sunday 10:00am – 4:00pm

Parking:         $7.00 Monday – Friday and Free Saturday - Sunday

Further information about the exhibition can be found at http://virtualtours.westernsydney.edu.au, or by contacting Monica McMahon 4620 3450 or email monica.mcmahon@westernsydney.edu.au.

Ends

28 April 2016

Tanya Patterson - Media Officer