This September beachgoers and art fanatics alike can find over 50 contemporary sculptures set amongst the breathtaking landscape of Currumbin Beach, just an hour drive south of the Brisbane CBD.
This free 10 day festival, taking place between the 11th and the 20th of September, is an annual event that invites guests to immerse themselves in a one-of-a-kind beachside experience. SWELL features local, national, and international artists to showcase some of their most thought-provoking and sculpturally impressive works. Think whimsical white sheet canopies flowing in the wind, repurposed washing machines perched on the sand, colossal bread basket pyramids, and gigantic arches made from trolleys and chairs.
This awe-inspiring event is Queensland’s largest outdoor sculpture festival and welcomes 275,000 visitors annually. SWELL also offers a range of unique experiences to the public that includes; guided twilight walks through the beachside exhibition, artist-led discussions and workshops, and immersive art-focused activities for the children.
SWELL was the brainchild of two local creatives in 2002, Natasha Edwards and Kylie Mitchell-Smith. The pair shared the idea of creating a new art experience for everyone while their four young children played alongside them. Their idea was bold and challenging but 18 years on they have created the largest, free, outdoor sculpture exhibition in Queensland.
More information about this event, including Festival Programs and Activity Timetables, can be found here
Looking for more great adventures? Check out MyBrisbane’s round-up of the best things to do at this years Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers- here
