THE SIGNIFICANCE OF SIG FOR ARTISTS IN THE REGION & BEYOND
This year will mark the fourteenth year of Sculptures in the Garden. From humble beginnings of a few hundred attendees to over 5000 visitors through the gate, the success of the event continues to dwarf previous years. In 2020, the two-day event was extended to 16 days, enabling more visitors to attend, and ultimately driving higher sales for the artists.
The objective of the SIG committee has long been to provide artists with a platform to exhibit their work. However, as the exhibition has evolved, one of the primary reasons the not-for-profit forges ahead year after year is to increase the public art collection available for the community to enjoy. The original public art display established in Lawson Park in Mudgee has now extended to sites in Rylstone, Gulgong, and the grounds of the Mudgee Hospital.
Ahead, Harrie Fasher (Portland). Winner of the 2021 MWRC / SIG Acquisition
The opportunity this presents for artists is not to be underestimated. Winner of the top prize in 2021, Harrie Fasher, commented that “producing an exhibition of the calibre of Sculptures in the Garden is a huge undertaking; but in reality, SIG is doing more than just showcasing sculpture, they are nurturing local talent.”
Fasher highlighted the importance of showcasing art in the regions, observing it was integral to the growth of creative rural communities. “Platforms like Sculptures in the Garden enable emerging artists to showcase their work, nurturing creativity and the arts in the regions”, Fasher explained.
In 2020, John Fitzmaurice submitted his magnificent 316 polished stainless-steel masterpiece, ‘Encounter’ into SIG. Fitzmaurice wasn’t successful in securing an acquisition prize that year, however in 2021, the Sculptures in the Garden committee purchased the work to donate to the newly constructed Mudgee Arts Precinct. The donation symbolises a special connection between Sculptures in the Garden and arts in the Central West; its placement linking the precinct to the Sculpture Walk in Lawson Park. It also represents the opportunity and possibilities for recognition that SIG can offer to artists.
Encounter, John Fitzmaurice. Permanently installed in front of the Mudgee Arts Precinct.
Paul Bacon, a sculptor from Avalon Sydney encourages sculptors to take place if not for the professional advantage, then at least for the personal experience: “A garden of sculptures, big skies, paddocks, wine and a warm welcome from Mudgee. There is nothing not to love about showing work at SIG”.
These thoughts were echoed by Bathurst sculptor, Stephen Hogan, who commented that “Sculptures in the Gardens is one of my favourite shows on the annual calendar. The Norton-Knights create a strong sense of family and that feeling of warmth extends to the many artists and visitors who participate and support this exhibition year on year. It's a wonderful event.”
Town, Paul Bacon (Avalon) & Tribal Totems, Stephen Hogan (Bathurst)