Home » TRAVEL EVENT NEWS » Get Ready for Sculpture by the Sea Cottesloe 2026: Over Two Hundred Thousand Visitors Expected at Perth’s Iconic Art Event Published on
January 4, 2026The highly anticipated Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe exhibition is set to return in 2026, running from 6–23 March 2026 along the picturesque shores of Cottesloe Beach, located in Perth, Western Australia. This year’s event promises to once again captivate thousands of visitors as it transforms the stunning beach landscape into an open-air gallery, showcasing large-scale sculptures from local, national, and international artists.An Iconic Cultural Celebration for Western AustraliaSculpture by the Sea has grown to become one of Western Australia’s largest and most significant public art exhibitions. Held annually at Cottesloe Beach, it draws large crowds, with over 200,000 attendees expected this year. The 18-day event has become a staple in Australia’s spring cultural calendar, attracting art lovers and tourists alike to experience the stunning combination of modern sculpture and natural beauty. By drawing such large crowds, the event provides a platform for both emerging and established artists, making it a unique opportunity for public engagement with contemporary art.Advertisement A Rich History and LegacyThe Cottesloe exhibition, which started in 2005, is an extension of the original Sculpture by the Sea first held in Bondi Beach, Sydney in 1997. After the success of the Bondi event, it inspired the launch of the Cottesloe exhibition, which has now become a renowned feature of Western Australia’s cultural offerings. Over the years, the event has grown in scope and scale, helping to cement Cottesloe as one of Australia’s premier art destinations. Featuring sculptures that range from traditional to modern, the exhibition offers something for every visitor, creating a dynamic intersection of art and nature.Visitor Numbers and Economic ImpactSince its inception, Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe has become one of the most visited art events in Western Australia. The exhibition consistently attracts a massive audience, with the 2024 edition alone drawing more than 235,000 visitors. The economic impact is significant, with the event generating an estimated AUD 4.5 million in local economic activity. Businesses in the hospitality, tourism, and local retail sectors benefit from the influx of visitors, supporting jobs and boosting revenue. As a free public event, it remains accessible to a wide range of people, contributing to the cultural and economic vitality of the region.AdvertisementSpecial Features of the 2026 EventThe 2026 edition of Sculpture by the Sea will not only feature the expected outdoor sculptures but also introduce several new features to enhance the visitor experience. A concurrent indoor exhibition will be held at the Sea View Golf Club, where 120 smaller contemporary sculptures from Australian and international artists will be displayed. This addition will offer visitors a broader scope of works to enjoy, expanding the event’s appeal and accessibility.In line with its commitment to inclusivity, the exhibition will also host a comprehensive Access and Inclusion Progra …
