Melbourne Sculpture Biennale was founded in Naarm/Melbourne in 2024. This ambitious project aims to enhance engagement with critically engaged sculptural practices and increase opportunities for contemporary sculptural artists.

The first edition of Melbourne Sculpture Biennale was held in October 2024 at the Villa Alba Museum, a heritage mansion and garden in Kew. The exhibition, titled The Burden of Objects, featured 19 artists based in greater Naarm/Melbourne who make objects at scale, in costly or labour-intensive materials, and using traditional sculptural processes such as carving, moulding, casting, modelling, and assembling.

After the success of the inaugural edition, Melbourne Sculpture Biennale will return for a second edition in October 2026. Supported by Bayside City Council, the 2026 Biennale will bring together a new group of leading artists who will create sculptural installations in response to the significant heritage site of Billilla Mansion in Brighton. Set against the backdrop of Billilla’s grand architecture and lush gardens, the 2026 Biennale will explore site-responsive work and contemporary forms of sculptural storytelling.

Melbourne Sculpture Biennale is a non-profit project founded and directed by Adam Stone and Laura Couttie. If you would like to discuss how you can get involved or support the 2026 Melbourne Sculpture Biennale, please contact us.