Australiaʼs most celebrated regional outdoor sculpture exhibition, Sculptures in
the Garden (SIG), returns
this October with a record-
breaking number of entries, and this year it will feature a local artists.
Orbost’s Neil Findley is a first time exhibitor at the event, and will bring his large scorpion, Nipper, to
the exhibition.
He has been self-employed for 35 years, repairing earth moving equipment, before he diversified in 2020 into art using worn out parts off equipment and other recycled materials.
He has won three first prizes at various sculpture shows and one third, and has several pieces on public display and in private possession.
Now in its 15th year, the event has become a cornerstone of the Australian cultural calendar, bringing together an inspiring mix of established artists and emerging voices.
The 2025 exhibition will present more than 260 works from 130 artists, with one-third exhibiting for the first time at regional Australiaʼs premier outdoor art showcase.
Artists will travel from across the country to take part, with more than 12 per cent of the exhibiting cohort journeying from outside New South Wales, including Tasmania and Western Australia.
Running from October 11-26, this yearʼs exhibition will deliver a striking celebration of artistry, originality and skill, complemented by an immersive program of events.
Visitors can enjoy live music, food and wine from local producers, along with creative activities for children — ensuring thereʼs something for everyone.
With fresh faces joining well-known regulars, this yearʼs exhibition is shaping up as one of the most unmissable events in its 15-year history.
“Itʼs incredible to see so many new applicants alongside returning favourites. It really shows how firmly Sculptures in the Garden has cemented its place in the Australian art landscape,ˮ Kay Norton-Knight, founder and curator of Sculptures in the Garden, said.
“Weʼre delighted to welcome such a high calibre of artists, presenting an extraordinary variety of works. Thereʼs nothing
quite like seeing the sculptures spread across the gardens and vineyards of Rosby Wines.
“October is one of the most beautiful times of the year in Mudgee, and the exhibition is the perfect reason to experience everything our region has to offer. The landscape is alive with colour, the cellar doors are buzzing, and Sculptures in the Garden brings a truly special energy to
the region.ˮ
All exhibited works are eligible for the SIG and Mid-Western Regional Council Prize, a prestigious $30,000 award. The Friends of SIG Prize and the Fernside Pastoral Company Prize will each award $10,000.
Many of these acquisitions join permanent public collections such as the Lawson Park Sculpture Walk, Rylstone Riverwalk and Mudgee Hospital, continuing Sculptures in the Gardenʼs legacy of enriching regional spaces with contemporary art.
