What better way to end the summer than following the journey of a group of extremely talented artists sculpting over 10 days?!

The Whangarei Sculpture Symposium is a biennial event back for a fifth season. Located on the Hihiaua Peninsula from March 12-22, 2018, 20 artists will gather to provide a live sculpture exhibition that is open to the general public, art lovers and art collectors as blocks of Oamaru stone, hard stone and/or wood transform in front of your eyes.

We have a great line-up of Northland locals: Miriam Von Mulert, Elijah Revell, Els Van Drunen, Dave Taylor, Justin Murfitt, Natasha Smyser, Peter Schouten, Trisha Fisk, Ross Mann, and Susan Dinkelacker. Out-of-town artists with some first-time attendees include: Trevor Nathan, Lawrence Makoare, Paul Olson, Rhyll Stafford, Rex O'Brien Steve Molloy and Tai Meuli. From across the ditch, Australian-based artist, Nicholas Compton joins us and we welcome Anthony Dunn and Graham Nathan, both receiving a scholarship from Te Wananga O Aotearoa to participate.

The theme for 2018 is 'journey' based on first encounters, exploring and navigating. We are furthered inspired by the Sestercentennial 250th anniversary of the voyage of the Endeavour captained by Lieutenant James Cook, which commemorates his exploration of our coast. When life ends, life will begin anew whether it's through reincarnation or the beginning of someone else's journey, life continues on. These experiences - physical, natural or historical influences -inspire the design of the sculpture.

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This is a free public event which culminates into a live auction on the last day where 18 sculptures will be auctioned and the announcement of two selected art pieces will be purchased by Whangarei District Council and Te Au Marie 1769 Sestercentennial Trust. As in previous years, visitors to the site have an opportunity to nominate their favourite work for the Quest Whangarei People's Choice Award.