While David Ball was named runner up for “Split” – taking home $1000 – at a launch of the 10-day art festival on Thursday, with the collation of 61 artworks open for public viewing from Friday.

The Farm plays the backdrop to 61 artworks for Sculptures at Killalea, though it was nearly 60 with a carved turtle disappearing temporarily.

Organisers were happy to report the piece by Ian Bell was returned, mistaken for something washed up on the beach.

Sculptors have travelled far and wide to install works on the Illawarra coastline in a range of shapes, sizes, and mediums – with more awards to be given out at completion of the festival.

Last year’s winning piece was by Michael Greve, who is exhibiting again.

Visiting the State Park to view the works is free with ceramic abstracts, metal fish, life-like chickens and a metal seahorse also on show. Works feature wood, resin, sandstone, steel, concrete, rubber and rope.

The event will also include interactive pieces for kids and families and we are excited to welcome a dedicated category for the region's schools to partake this year.

A twilight market and festival is new to the program this year, as well as live street art.

Nine artists will paint live across a number of days and once complete the boards will be available for sale with proceeds donated back to the charity of the artists choice.

Killalea is accessible for wheelchairs, prams or those requiring support. As well as ample and accessible parking with dedicated drop-off/pick- up zones for buses.

Friday 29th September 

Warrigal Young at HeART Day, a special event dedicated to regions the older people and a chance to recognise the benefits of art and colour and health and ageing.

Free workshops, live entertainment and a BBQ lunch by the Minnamurra Lions Club.

Music by Harper Martin from 11am - 1pm.

Indigenous Art Workshop with Saltwater Dreamtime - 10am.

Macrame Workshop with Made By Denean - 10am.

Woodcarving Workshop with the Shellharbour Woodcarvers - 10am.

Saturday 30th September

Live music by The Groove on stage from 11am – 1pm.

Live art demonstrations.

Food Vendors and the Illawarra Brewing Company.

Woodcarving Demonstration presented by Arbortech and featured sculptor, Ian Bell - 10am.

Read More: 10 years of Wollongong’s music scene in one exhibition

Sunday 1st October - Thursday 6th October

Walk and explore the Sculptures, live art demonstrations, food, music and more…

Tuesday 3rd October

As part of this years event a satellite exhibition will run in parallel to the festival at Stockland showcasing a number of artists with Indoor pieces (and a few outdoor too). 

School holiday workshop at Stockland Shellharbour at 10.30am.

Live Art and Mural Making with Andy Higgins of Grace & Stone Designs.

This is an interactive workshop and children are encouraged to participate and get involved.

Wednesday 4th October

School holiday workshop at Stockland Shellharbour at 10.30am.

Live Art and Mural Making with Andy Higgins of Grace & Stone Designs.

This is an interactive workshop and children are encouraged to participate and get involved.

Thursday 5th October

School holiday workshop at Stockland Shellharbour at 9.30am.

Woodcarving and Pyrography with the Shellharbour Woodcarvers.

Read More: 27 things to do in the Illawarra these school holidays (under $5)

Friday 6th October

Big Fat Smile Family Day

Free art and craft activities for the kids including Shellharbour Library’s Paint Shellharbour Read and Youth services Aerosol art project.

Goldsworthy Sculpture Workshop with Artist Gaillyn Cooper.

Neural Knitworks Workshop - 10am

Drumming Circle with Joe Powers on the main stage at 12pm.

Food stalls, jumping castle and more.

Saturday 7th October

Twilight Festival & Markets

Food, Beer & Wine

Makers & Creators Markets

Live Art Demonstrations

Live Music & Entertainment

Sunday 8th October 

Your last chance to walk and explore the Sculptures, live art demonstrations and music!

www.sculpturesatkillalea.com.au