John Petrie Monumental Stone Sculpture: John Petrie, a seasoned Sydney-based sculptor, has achieved a remarkable milestone in his sculpting career by winning the prestigious $100,000 first prize at Sculpture by the Sea, an iconic annual event. What makes this victory even more special is that Petrie has a longstanding history with the event, having participated for over 25 years. His award-winning sculpture, titled “23.5°,” is a monumental and abstract stone creation that stands at an impressive 2.6 meters in height. Crafted from two massive basalt pieces sourced from the Brindabella Range on the ACT/NSW border, this colossal work weighs a staggering 5.5 tonnes and demanded six months of intricate engineering to bring it to life.
The title, “23.5°,” holds a special significance as it references the Earth’s axial tilt, signifying the angle at which the Earth’s axis is inclined concerning its orbit around the sun. It’s a nod to the profound connection between art and the natural world, capturing the essence of the Earth’s enduring mysteries.
Creating this masterpiece wasn’t without its challenges, as Petrie candidly admits. He explains how the concept emerged: “I had this idea of that angle. It just popped into my head, and I thought, ‘That’s a good idea.'” However, the transition from concept to realization was far from straightforward. The artist elaborates, “I did the drawing, wrote 23.5° on it and submitted it, and then I got in and thought, ‘Oh, shit. Now I’m going to have to make this thing!'” The ambitious project involved the meticulous selection of suitable stone, logistical hurdles, and engineering complexities. As an artist, Petrie’s journey was a combination of inspiration, dedication, and perseverance.
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The resulting artwork is a magnificent sight to behold. The top boulder, which appears to have been sliced through, presents four highly polished faces. These polished surfaces reveal intricate and mesmerizing patterns, akin to stars in a galaxy, adding a touch of celestial wonder to the sculpture. It’s a testament to the unexpected surprises that artists can uncover within the heart of the stone when they carve away layers of the unknown. “One of the best things about working like this is that when you cut open the stone, you don’t know what you’re going to find,” Petrie shares.
In an interview, Petrie’s profound connection to his craft becomes evident. He started his artistic journey as a painter and transitioned to working with stone later in life. He underscores that carving stone is a unique process full of surprises, almost like a conversation with the material. He appreciates the element of unpredictability and the way the stone’s natural characteristics, patterns, and textures influence the final creation.
This award-winning sculpture, “23.5°,” signifies more than just a personal achievement for John Petrie. It’s a representation of the enduring bond between art and nature. “Art is a serious business and speaks of optimism and possibility. It shows confidence in the world,” Petrie reflects. His work now stands as a monumental tribute to the ancient beauty of Australia, the oldest continent on Earth, integrating the natural world into the realm of art.
Sculpture by the Sea’s CEO and Artistic Director, David Handley, expressed his delight that John Petrie had won in the event’s anniversary year. Handley acknowledges the significant evolution in Petrie’s practice and the artist himself over the years of his involvement with the exhibition. Petrie’s journey has been a testament to his dedication to his craft and his enduring commitment to the event.
Petrie’s award-winning sculpture, along with 104 other remarkable creations, graces the Bondi-Tamarama coastal walk, spanning over two kilometers. The annual event, known as the world’s largest free outdoor sculpture exhibition, anticipates approximately 450,000 visitors during its 18-day run. This is a striking contrast to the event’s inaugural year in 1997, which saw a significantly more modest 25,000 attendees. The event’s popularity has surged, with social media, particularly Instagram, playing a pivotal role. Instagrammable sculptures have the power to boost visitation by up to 10%, demonstrating the influence of art in the digital age.
This year, marking a milestone, sponsor Aqualand has generously increased the first prize money to $100,000 from the previous $70,000, further highlighting the significance of this achievement. Aqualand has also committed to another three years of sponsorship, ensuring the event’s continued success.
When asked about his plans for the prize money, John Petrie humorously revealed that a new utility vehicle is on his shopping list, indicating that even in the world of monumental stone sculptures, practicality has its place.
The story of John Petrie’s triumph is not just a tale of artistic success; it’s a testament to the enduring connection between human creativity and the natural world. The monumental stone sculpture “23.5°” will remain as a lasting reminder of this connection, leaving an indelible mark on the world of art and sculpture.
Our Reader’s Queries
Who won the sculpture by the sea 2023?
Renowned Australian artist and recipient of the prestigious Aqualand Sculpture Award, John Petrie, recently sat down for an interview to discuss his latest masterpiece, ‘23.5º’. The sculpture, which is currently on display at the Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Bondi 2023, is a true testament to Petrie’s exceptional talent and creativity. In the interview, Petrie delves into the inspiration behind his work and the intricate details that went into its creation. As one of the most highly regarded artists in the country, Petrie’s work continues to captivate and inspire audiences around the world.
What is the theme of Sculpture by the Sea 2023?
While the theme of Sculpture By the Sea 2023 is centered around conservation, the end result is nothing short of pure entertainment. From Bondi to Tamarama, this event is set to run until November 6th, showcasing a range of captivating sculptures that are sure to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a lover of art or simply looking for a fun day out, this exhibition is not to be missed. So why not come along and experience the magic for yourself?
What is the prize money for the sculpture by the sea?
Aqualand Sculpture Award, a generous $100,000 acquisitive prize, is bestowed upon the winner with the sculpture gifted by Aqualand for permanent placement in Sydney. Australian artists can apply for the Helen Lempriere Scholarship, which offers a substantial $30,000. International artists can also participate, but they must bear the cost of up to $3,000 (conditions apply).
What is the difference between a sculpture and a statue?
Sculptures are typically crafted by chiseling a material, commonly stone, into a tangible, three-dimensional form, often depicting a human figure or a group of individuals. On the other hand, statues are typically produced by creating a mold for the statue, as seen in the iconic Statue of Liberty. These statues are intended to be showcased in a public setting.