Wanneroo Artist Ayad Alqaragholli Presents New Bronze Sculpture at Cottesloe Event
Renowned Wanneroo bronze sculptor Ayad Alqaragholli, a crowd favourite, has officially unveiled his latest artistic creation for the upcoming Sculpture by the Sea exhibition in Cottesloe. The installation, titled For Peace, will be prominently displayed alongside more than 70 other sculptures when the event returns on Friday, March 6, following a hiatus in 2025.
Symbolism and Message Behind the Artwork
Alqaragholli's new piece features a raven perched atop a chair, which he explains carries deep symbolic meaning. The raven represents Australia's enduring peace, while the chair symbolises the country's comfort and welcoming nature. "This artwork is a global message," Alqaragholli stated. "It says Australia is a land of peace. We believe in peace and we stand beside peace everywhere in the world."
He further elaborated that the chair embodies Australia as a comfortable place to live, reflecting his personal experiences since migrating from southern Iraq to Perth in 2005. The sculpture, which took approximately six months and $28,000 to create, previously debuted at Sculpture by the Sea in Bondi last year.
Artist's Background and Exhibition History
This year marks Alqaragholli's 14th participation in the Cottesloe exhibition, underscoring his longstanding connection to the event. He was a joint winner of the People's Choice prize in 2020 and has works displayed internationally across Europe and Asia. Alqaragholli expressed hope that viewers will reflect on Australia's unique sense of safety and harmony, which he believes is sometimes taken for granted compared to other regions.
"We are a multicultural society. We live together in peace," he emphasised. "This artwork represents every Australian. It talks about how we stand beside peace and how we live in a great country."
Return of Sculpture by the Sea with Strong Support
After last year's exhibition was cancelled due to unresolved funding issues, the event has secured its return with both Federal and State government support. Artistic director and Sculpture by the Sea founding CEO David Handley highlighted the significance of the exhibition, noting that over 200,000 visitors are expected this year.
"This year's exhibition promises a powerful and diverse collection of works from leading and emerging artists across Australia and around the world," Mr Handley said. "Bold, thought-provoking pieces alongside playful and inspiring works will captivate visitors of all ages. The connection between the community and the artists who create these works is something very special."
The 21st Sculpture by the Sea in Cottesloe will run from March 6 to 23, featuring more than 30 Western Australian artists among its participants. The exhibition transforms the Cottesloe shoreline into a spectacular outdoor gallery, celebrating artistic expression and community engagement.
