Sydney's Sculpture By The Sea hit by pandemic

Organisers say COVID-19 limits on mass gatherings means the annual event will not be going ahead as scheduled from 8 October.

Sculpture Filter by Maurizio Perron is exhibited along the Bondi to Tamarama Coastal walk during the 2019 Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Sydney,

Sculpture Filter by Maurizio Perron is exhibited along the Bondi to Tamarama Coastal walk during the 2019 Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Sydney, Source: AAP

Sydney's popular Sculpture By The Sea exhibition has been postponed with organisers concerned about proximity of attendees during COVID-19.

The 2km trail of art along Sydney's eastern beaches and clifftops has become an annual fixture attracting scores of thousands of people.

But on Sunday it was announced the event, scheduled to run for a month from 8 October, might not go ahead until next year.


"Due to current public health orders limiting mass outdoor gatherings, our 2020 event will not be going ahead as planned," director David Handley said.

Potential new dates for the exhibition include later in 2020 or early 2021.

"We are continuing to work with ... agencies, including NSW Health on reviewing all options for an exhibition that will ensure safe attendance," he added.



More than 100 artists have collectively spent up to $1.8 million freighting their sculptures to Sydney from across Australia and around the world for the 2021 event.

"So it was important to wait and see if there was any chance we could proceed with this year's exhibition as planned," Mr Handley said.

"Now, like everyone, we are waiting to see what might be possible, being mindful that everyone's health comes first."

People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others. Check your state’s restrictions on gathering limits. If you are experiencing cold or flu symptoms, stay home and arrange a test by calling your doctor or contact the Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. News and information is available in 63 languages at .


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2 min read
Published 27 September 2020 6:47pm
Updated 27 September 2020 6:52pm
Source: AAP, SBS



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