Bondi’s Sculpture by the Sea shines a spotlight on eight Indian artists

This year’s highly anticipated Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Bondi is putting in spotlight 12 remarkable works from Indian artists, marking a significant milestone in the event’s history.

The world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition has transformed Sydney’s iconic Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, opened to the public on Friday, 18 October.

Among the 100 artworks from 16 countries, the Indian Showcase will feature the creativity of eight Indian sculptors, alongside two artists from the Indian diaspora in Australia.

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David Handley, founding CEO and Artistic Director of Sculpture by the Sea, praised the diverse talent of Indian sculptors, noting the challenges they overcame.

“The Indian Showcase demonstrates the strength and diversity of sculpture in India. Despite significant disruptions to freight caused by this year’s cyclones, the artists’ commitment to this exhibition is inspiring,” Handley said.

Notable pieces include Avantika Bawa’s Scaffolds by the Sea, Shovin Bhattacharjee’s Cosmic Nest, Harsha Durugadda’s The Conversation and Whorl, and Subodh Kerkar’s Red Fold and The Chilly. Artists Niharika Hukku (Shelter) and Shaumyika Sharma (Swimmer) represent the Indian diaspora.

Tim Thomas, CEO of the Centre for Australia-India Relations, highlighted the cultural bridge the event represents, stating, “This sponsorship reflects our commitment to strengthening ties between Australia and India while showcasing the artistic traditions that connect our two nations.”

Returning to the event is Harsha Durugadda, a Hyderabad-based sculptor whose previous work Column of Sound won the prestigious Rio Tinto Sculpture Award in 2016.

Reflecting on his artwork, Durugadda said in an Instagram post, “Whorl captures the essence of whirling dervishes’ spiritual dance through its spiralling form, symbolizing the journey towards inner enlightenment. Inspired by their continuous rotation around a central axis, the sculpture evokes a sense of fluidity and grace. By freezing the motion of a dervish in the midst of their dance, this piece invites viewers to contemplate the harmony between motion and stillness.”

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Sculpture by the Sea is a major cultural event in Australia, drawing approximately 450,000 visitors over its 18-day duration (continues until Monday, 4 November 2024).

The Indian Showcase is supported by the Centre for Australia-India Relations (CAIR), the Howarth Foundation, the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre, and the Indian Consulate-General in Sydney.

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