After a five-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the New Zealand Sculpture OnShore is making its grand return to Auckland’s Operetu, Fort Takapuna.
More than 130 pieces are on display at the clifftop park, with sculptures made with varying materials ranging from bronze, Corten Steel and glass, to terracotta, Taranaki andesite and Oamaru stone.
NZ Sculpture OnShore board chairwoman Sally Dewar said 20,000 people are expected to attend over two weeks.
"What we try to deliver here is a snapshot of New Zealand’s contemporary art. Honestly, it's a relief to be back and it’s also just this sensation of complete enjoyment, and also coming home," she said.
Dozens of artists from around the country have travelled to Auckland with their pieces, which include a four-metre-tall stainless steel tūī, a giant glimmering hand, an illuminated waka, a whale tail and a horseshoe exhibit of Australasian racing horse Phar Lap.
"Many of the pieces are huge in size – up to four metres high – right down to some pretty small artworks. Some are quirky and playful, some are majestic and some are thought-provoking," Dewar said.
All of the sculptures are up for sale, ranging from $60 to $150,000.
The proceeds will be donated to New Zealand Women's Refuge, with the event raising $2 million for the charity in its 27 years.
"Women’s Refuge New Zealand is the cause that’s close to the hearts of everybody involved with this event," she said.
"That’s why the feeling around this event is so wonderful – because everyone involved knows what we are all working towards."
The event runs from Saturday, November 4 to Sunday, November 19.
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