12 Queensland’s leading celebration of sculpture returns as the 2025 Brisbane Sculpture Festival transforms the stunning Mt Coottha Botanic Gardens into a vibrant outdoor gallery filled with creativity, imagination, and bold artistic expression. Presented by Sculptors Queensland, the festival features a combination of indoor and outdoor exhibitions showcasing works by some of the state’s most prominent and emerging sculptors. This much-loved annual event is free to attend, and all artworks are available for purchase. President of Sculptors Queensland Belinda Dekker said they’re proud to present an exhibition that honours the founders, Dr Leonard and Dr Kathleen Shillam, and showcases the incredible talent within Queensland’s sculptural community. “We invite viewers, artists and aspiring artists to experience the works in the spectacular Mt Coot-tha Botanical Gardens our long-standing home of the Brisbane Sculpture Festival. “Our diverse membership is growing and continuing to develop Queensland sculpture for generations to come. Curator Colleen Lavender explains that the festival embraces sculpture in all its forms. “Sculpture is a broad spectrum of styles and techniques. Personally my favourite sculpture captures the essence of the subject and shows the interpretation through the Artist’s lens. This exhibition takes viewers on a journey through diverse perspectives, stories, and textures—a true feast for the eyes and mind. I invite guests to escape the everyday and step into something magical.” The festival includes both an indoor exhibition and an outdoor sculpture trail, with separate competition categories. Prices start from just $50, making the artworks accessible to collectors and first-time buyers alike. Every sculpture is listed in an online catalogue and can be explored via QR codes throughout the gardens. The prestigious $1,500 Shillam Prize, named in honour of Sculptors Queensland’s founders, will be awarded to the most outstanding sculpture. The prize recognises a work of lasting material quality that demonstrates excellence in form, concept, and execution. Key Dates Outdoor Exhibition: Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens until Tuesday 14 October (open daily, 8am – 4pm) Location: Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens & Mt Coot-tha Auditorium Admission: Free (registration required) More info: sculptorsqld.org.au/ brisbane-sculpture-festival-2 Brisbane Sculpture Festival Returns to Mt Coot-tha With a legacy spanning over four decades, Vision Michael Hare Optometrists is a trusted name in optometric care on the Gold Coast. Operating from Southport, Benowa, Burleigh, and Paradise Point, the practice is renowned for its dedication to patient-focused care and cutting-edge technology. Michael Hare, founder and leader of the practice, along with co-owner Jonathan McCorriston, emphasises the importance of staying ahead in the ever-evolving field of eye health. “We’ve always prioritised investing in advanced technology because it allows us to provide the highest standard of care,” Jonathan explains. 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