Award grows in stature

The City of Busselton has doubled the prize money for Dunsborough’s Sculpture by the Bay Acquisitive Award, raising the prize to $10,000 for the winner.

City of Busselton councillor Jo Barrett-Lennard said the prize value reflected the event’s maturity as well as the calibre of the artists it attracts.

“This is not a small event. It brings more than ten thousand visitors to the district each year,” she said.

“The City has been able to build a wonderful collection of public art works through the acquisitive process.

“We’re happy to support the event and we recognise the cultural and social benefits it brings to the broader community.”

March will see Sculpture by the Bay in its twelfth year as part of the Dunsborough and Districts Progress Association’s Arts Festival.

DDPAAF spokesman Chris Harding said it was good to see the City double the award prize money.

“This is a demonstration of support for the arts industry and shows great respect for the creativity and hard work of the contributing artists,” he said.

“Sculpture by the Bay is the perfect arena for this type of exposure and there will be many eyes on the 2021 Acquisitive Award.”

The event runs from February 27 to March 1 and entries are now open. Visit www.sculpturebythebay.com.au/.