Sculpture by the Sea has returned to Cottesloe Beach for its 21st edition, bringing with it a sweeping collection of works stretching along one of Perth’s most iconic stretches of coastline. After a hiatus in 2025, the exhibition’s return has been warmly received — with Artistic Director and Founding CEO David Handley noting that locals were out in force during the install week, “letting us know how happy they are the exhibition has returned.”
This year’s event features more than 70 sculptures from local, national, and international artists spanning eight countries, including five artists from India as part of a dedicated India Showcase. It’s one of Western Australia’s largest free public events, and based on 2024 figures — which drew more than 200,000 attendees and generated more than $4.5 million in local economic activity — the 2026 edition is set to deliver a significant boost to the Cottesloe area and its surrounding hospitality businesses.
New to the 2026 program is a separate public indoor exhibition at the Sea View Golf Club, featuring more than 120 small contemporary sculptural works by Australian and international artists. It’s a worthwhile complement to the main beachside experience, particularly if you’re planning a full day in the area.
Award winners and invited artists
Fremantle-based sculptor Stephen Tepper took home the $10,000 Alcoa Aluminium Sculpture Award for his work Suddenly Everything’s Changed, with the prize announced at the opening ceremony. He was joined by two special invited artists: Dr Subodh Kerkar, the Tourism WA Invited International Artist for 2026, whose performance installation Oceans and Civilizations is now on display; and Karla Hart, the Tourism WA Invited Aboriginal Artist, who is participating in Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe for the first time with her performance artwork Wardarn Dreaming.
Increased accessibility
This year’s event is the most accessible edition to date. A Lotterywest grant of $336,079 is supporting nine days of beach wheelchair matting between the Indiana Teahouse and the groyne, running from Wednesday, March 11th, through to Thursday, March 19th. The matting allows visitors with reduced mobility or who use wheelchairs to get onto the sand and experience the sculptures up close.
When and where
Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe runs until Monday, March 23rd. Entry to the beachside exhibition is free.
