Lorne Sculpture Biennale

A world-class outdoor exhibition has added another dimension to Lorne, according to Lorne Sculpture Biennale President Andrew Stobart.

The popular Biennale returns in March, commissioning established and emerging artists to present sculpture and spatial installations at 16 sites along the foreshore.

“Obviously Lorne is a holiday destination and people come here to enjoy the recreation and hospitality assets,” Andrew said. “Together with Qdos Arts, the Biennale has put us on the map as a cultural destination as well, presenting Lorne – and the Surf Coast – in another dimension. It attracts an audience who come to Lorne for another reason.”

Titled STRATA and curated by Simon Lawrie, Biennale 2025’s artistic vision derives from the iconic geology of Gadubanud Country.

“In 2022 we created the theme ‘Spirit Of Place’ and asked artists to prepare original works that talked to that theme,” Andrew said. “This year’s ‘STRATA’ theme continues to build on the ecological and cultural history of Lorne and the foreshore.”

Council’s Surf Coast Events is proud to sponsor Lorne Sculpture Biennale, which is free for the public to enjoy.

“It attracts around 20,000 visitors, and our surveys have told us that 60% come to Lorne specifically for the Biennale,” Andrew said.

“This year we’ve extended to five weekends. We encourage local people to come along and take it all in.”

The event runs from 1 to 30 March. For the full program – including Sculpture Plus which offers workshops, artist talks and performances – visit lornesculpture.com.

Image: Robert Hague, ‘What Remains’ Lorne Sculpture Biennale 2022. Shane Thomson, Urchin Creative.