Rising from the Ashes Sculpture Trail

SMOKE on the Water 2026 is inviting artists, makers, schools and community groups to help transform the Wimmera River frontage at Maydale Reserve into an immersive open-air sculpture trail across the King's Birthday long weekend.

The 2026 theme, Rising from the Ashes, explores renewal, resilience, fire, storytelling and creativity as communities reflect on the bushfires of recent summers. The theme also acknowledges the bonfires that have become a signature feature of SMOKE on the Water each year.

We welcome submissions across a broad range of styles and materials including:

- recycled and reclaimed materials
- new and mixed materials
- metalwork
- timber
- natural materials
- interactive works
- large-scale and small-scale sculptures

Works must be suitable for outdoor display and capable of withstanding winter weather conditions.

Sculptures must be safely installed on site by Friday, June 5th 2026. Please contact Andrea on 0400 425 254 to arrange a suitable installation time.

There is no entry fee.

Accepted entrants will receive a complimentary weekend festival pass to SMOKE on the Water. Student entrants must be accompanied by an adult.

Limited assistance may be available for large-scale installations, subject to discussion with festival organisers.

PRIZES & JUDGING
Adult section - $250

Junior section - $50

 

Entries will be judged on the morning of Saturday, June 6th 2026 and winners notified by noon.

Artists are responsible for ensuring works are structurally sound, safely installed and suitable for public display.

The Horsham Agricultural Society will take all reasonable care but accepts no responsibility for loss, theft or damage to artworks during the exhibition period. Artists are encouraged to arrange their own insurance where required.

Festival organisers reserve the right to decline any artwork deemed unsafe, offensive or unsuitable for the exhibition environment.