Contemporary Sculpture – Australia

Landmark Sculptures

Browse our range of Large-scale outdoor sculpture today.

Large-scale art, and specifically works of contemporary sculpture, are a fantastic way to add recognizability, community interest, and character to any landscape. We work closely with landscape designers and property developers to find the perfect large-scale sculpture and installation view for their client's specific needs and preferences. We have an extensive range of modern artworks that are sure to add a unique touch to any outdoor area.

Mike Van Dam, Greg Johns, Martin George, Ben Fasham

Contemporary Sculpture Placement

ARTpark provides consultation and expert advice for sculpture placement, installation and installation view.

There are a myriad of variables that determine the possibilities of sculpture placements - such as terrain, and site access. Allow us to provide you with insight as to what is possible for your project with a phone call, or invite us for a site visit.

Contemporary Artists

There is no one definitive answer to the question of who or what contemporary artists are. However, they can be broadly defined as modern artists who are working in the present day and creating art that reflects our current experience of the world.

This means that they often explore social and political issues in their work, as well as more personal themes. Many also experiment with new media and technology, pushing the boundaries of what art can be.

Who We Work With

ARTpark provides expert knowledge and years of industry connections to assist architects, property developers, interior designers, landscape designers, and private estates and homes in servicing all aspects of all sculpture.

Whether you’re looking for a garden sculpture for the home, a large outdoor sculpture for your rural property or corporate premises, we’re sure to have something that will suit your needs.

Commissioning Custom Sculpture

Whilst browsing our contemporary sculptors and sculpture you may come across a work of art that you really enjoy, however, it is not available at scale or finish desirable for you. If this is the case, please do still contact us as most sculptural pieces have the ability to be produced at a variety of dimensions and from a range of materials. Explore our range of exhibited pieces or contact us for more information about a custom piece for your home or project. If you have a unique design in mind or an artist you love, make an enquiry about having a bespoke piece made.

Supporting Australian Arts.

Many of our Australian sculptures are representative of the culture and magnificence of the landscape they are placed in. Our sculpture artists come from all around the country and work to create art that is representative of, and a complement to, the stunning Australian landscape. Purchasing sculptural work from ARTpark Australia supports these amazing sculpture artists directly – allowing contemporary sculptors to create more fantastic large-scale works with the ability to present them across Australia via Our Sculptural walks.

History of Sculpture

Sculpture is an art form that dates back thousands of years. The first sculptures were likely made during the Upper Paleolithic period when early humans began creating small, handheld statues and objects out of stone and bone. These early sculptures were used as religious or spiritual objects, and they played an important role in the development of human culture.

Over time, sculpture evolved and changed to reflect the developing cultures of the people who created it. Ancient civilisations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all had their own distinct styles of sculpture, which reflected their unique views and cultures. In more recent history, artists have continued to push the boundaries of what sculpture can be, using new materials and methods to create truly innovative and original works of art.

Throughout history, sculpture has been used to communicate religious beliefs, political messages, and personal expression. It can be found in every culture and period, from ancient Egyptian tomb sculptures to 21st-century public art installations.

In a modern context, sculpture can be found in all corners of the globe, in every culture. It is an art form that continues to be a driving force of change, reflecting and inspired by the ever-changing world around it. Sculpture artists are pushing the boundaries of what sculpture can be. They’re experimenting with new materials and techniques to create works that are both visually stunning and thought-provoking.

Internationally-Acclaimed Sculptors From Australia

Some well-known Australian contemporary sculptors are Ron Mueck and Peter Schipperheyn.

Ron Mueck is an Australian artist who was born in Melbourne in 1958. His work is some of the most highly acclaimed and well-known worldwide. He is a hyperrealist artist who produces life-like human figures. His work often deals with themes of birth, death, and ageing.

Mueck's sculpture "Dead Dad" (1996) was included in the 1997 exhibition Sensation. The sculpture is a life-size representation of his father's own body, lying on his back with his eyes closed. His monumental works often incite unease from his viewers as they tend to expose aspects of the human condition and life that are deemed private.

Peter Schipperheyn's works are said to show his artistic journey inspired by his "love affair with Italy", with most of his works being influenced by Italian culture. He won the 1992 Wynne Prize for large sculptures of himself and his partner Cinzia.

A few notable commissions are the "Three Runners" for Melbourne High School, Eternal Flame for the Holocaust Museum, Melbourne in 1988, and Dame Joan Sutherland for the Sydney Town Hall in 1988.

Other Categories of Sculpture

Abstract

Sculptures are often classified by their appearance into categories such as representational, nonrepresentational, or abstract. Abstract sculptures are those that do not attempt to represent specific objects or scenes but instead explore form, shape, line, texture, and other elements of design. These works can be expressive and emotional, or they may simply seek to capture a feeling or mood. Abstract sculptures are often made from materials such as metal, glass, stone, wood, or even found objects.

Surrealism

Abstract sculptures are often seen as representations of the subconscious mind. They can be created from a variety of materials but are most commonly made from metal or stone. Surrealist sculptures often feature unexpected juxtapositions of objects, which can create a dream-like or nightmarish effect and quite often use illusions and negative spaces to achieve these effects.

Impressionism

An Impressionist sculpture is one that represents the natural world in a way that is realistic and yet not overly detailed. The materials used to construct these sculptures are often light and airy, such as clay, paper mache, or even cloth. This allows the artist to capture the fleeting moments of beauty that they see in nature. Impressionist sculptures often have an ethereal quality to them, as if they might blow away in a gentle breeze.

Realism

Realist sculptures are those that attempt to represent the subject matter as realistically as possible. This can be achieved through a variety of means, including detailed carving, casting in metals, or even using more unconventional materials like clay or plaster. Realist sculptures often depict scenes from everyday life or showcase the human form in a realistic way. As such, they can be seen as a window into the artist, their world and their views on the subject matter.

Australian Sculpture

There's no denying that Australian sculpture is everywhere. Whether you're taking a stroll through the park or meandering through the city, you're bound to come across some form of sculptural artwork. And while some may find these pieces of art a little strange or even intimidating, there's no denying their impact on the landscape. Contemporary sculpture from ARTpark adds to whatever man-made or natural environment it is placed in. We work with customers to place and install their works for the perfect installation view.