Sculpture Acquisitive Award Increases

Published on 04 September 2020

If you have ever considered entering a piece of artwork in Dunsborough’s Sculpture by the Bay, 2021 is the year to go for it!

The City of Busselton has increased the prize money for the 2021 Acquisitive Award. This winning piece of art work will be acquired by the City as part of its public artwork collection and installed in Dunsborough. Along with the honour and positive exposure, the Acquisitive Award winner will also receive $10,000 - this is twice the amount awarded in previous years.

City of Busselton Cr Jo Barrett-Lennard said: “The value of the prize reflects the maturity of the event, the calibre of artists it attracts and the increasing value our community places on sculpture and other forms of public art. This is not a small event - it brings over 10,000 visitors to the district each year. The City has been able to build a wonderful collection of public art works through the acquisitive process. We’re happy to support the event and we recognise the cultural and social benefits it brings to the broader community.”   

Sculpture by the Bay takes place during the March long-weekend as part of the Dunsborough & Districts Progress Association’s Arts Festival. In 2021, the Festival will be its 12th year and is gaining national acclaim.

Chris Harding is a long-time supporter of the event and a member of the coordinating team. “It’s really pleasing that the City has doubled the prize money for the Acquisitive Award. This is a demonstration of support for the arts industry and shows great respect for the creativity and hard work of contributing artists.

The Acquisitive Award is highly sought after. Yes the prize money is wonderful but the publicity associated with being part of such a unique public artwork collection is invaluable. Every sculptor wants his or her work displayed to as many people as possible. Sculpture by the Bay is the perfect arena for this type of exposure and there will be many eyes on the 2021 Acquisitive Award.” 

Sculpture by the Bay is on from 27 Feb – 1 March 2021. Entries opened on 1 September and close 30 November. In 2021 the entry fee for both the Sculpture by the Bay and the Small Sculpture Prize will be waivered. To find out more and to submit an entry form visit https://www.sculpturebythebay.com.au/

Image for free use: Pictured here are City of Busselton Cr Jo Barrett-Lennard, Chris Harding, Greg Banfield and Jacquie Happ.

Objectives outlined in this statement are aligned with Key Goal Area 2 in the City of Busselton’s Strategic Community Plan (Review 2019): Places and Spaces that are vibrant, attractive and affordable.

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