Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival Returns for 2026 with Over 180 Works
The biennial Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival will take place from 12 to 27 September 2026 in New South Wales, Australia. Since its inception in 2002, the event has turned the Wollombi Valley into an open-air gallery, inviting visitors to explore vineyards, curated indoor exhibitions, and a dynamic program of events. More than 180 sculptures by over 140 sculptors will be displayed across villages and valley sites. A free opening night celebration will feature the announcement of twelve prizes totaling over $80,000. Among the awards is the Governor’s Prize, which includes a twelve-month exhibition of the winning sculpture at Government House. The festival is free to attend, and the 2024 edition included works such as Mela Cooke’s Kindred Spirits, a bronze with corten plinth measuring 140 × 70 × 60 cm. The event continues to be a significant platform for sculptors in Australia.
Key facts
- The Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival is a biennial event held in New South Wales, Australia.
- The 2026 edition will run from 12 to 27 September.
- Over 180 sculptures by more than 140 sculptors will be exhibited.
- The festival has been transforming the Wollombi Valley into an open-air gallery since 2002.
- A free opening night celebration will announce twelve prizes valued at over $80,000.
- The Governor’s Prize includes a twelve-month exhibition at Government House.
- The 2024 festival featured Mela Cooke’s Kindred Spirits, a bronze with corten plinth, 140 × 70 × 60 cm.
- The festival includes curated indoor exhibitions and events across villages and valley sites.
Entities
Artists
- Mela Cooke
Institutions
- Wollombi Valley Sculpture Festival
- Government House
Locations
- Wollombi Valley
- New South Wales
- Australia