UK sculptor Sean Henry has taken out this year’s Sculpture by the Sea Cottesloe EY People’s Choice Award after thousands of visitors flocked to have their photo taken with his work ‘Seated Man’.
Visitors to the outdoor exhibition voted his artwork as their favourite out of more than 70 sculptures by artists from across the globe.
This is the first time Henry, who is one of England’s most celebrated artists, has exhibited in WA.
The famous artist adds an air of mystery to his pieces as he chooses to keep the identity of his sculptures anonymous and their meaning ambiguous.
Henry said he was ecstatic to win in his first time exhibiting at Sculpture by the Sea.
“I am very honoured to have won the People’s Choice award and I’m glad that my ‘Seated Man’ sculpture connected so directly with the community of Cottesloe and Perth,” he said.
“The proximity of the ocean and the ever-changing light gave the exhibition a unique theatricality and it has been a very memorable experience to visit and be a part of this year’s Sculpture by the Sea.”
He will take home $5000 for winning the people’s choice award.
Australian artist COADY took out the Kids’ Choice prize of $2000 for their artwork ‘Dave’.
“To all the young hearts who cast their votes and saw something special in ‘Dave’, I cannot thank you enough,” COADY said.
“Winning the Kids’ Choice award is not just an accolade, it’s a testament to the power of art to captivate and inspire young minds.”
Sculpture by the Sea Cottesloe ended on March 18 and director David Handley thanked those who made the 20th anniversary of the exhibition so special.
“Thank you to the artists, the people of Perth and everyone who made this year’s exhibition such a special 20th anniversary celebration. Congratulations to Sean Henry for receiving the EY People’s Choice Award and COADY for the Kids Choice,” he said.