Three new sculptures installed around region

Published on 09 July 2025

Three new sculptures have been installed in the region following their acquisition through the 2024 Sculptures in the Garden exhibition.

The installations are part of a partnership between Council and the annual Sculptures in the Garden event.

Among the newly installed works is Hope by Michael Vaynman, winner of the Sculptures in the Garden and Mid-Western Regional Council Acquisitive Prize. This prestigious award, accompanied with a $30,000 prize, is presented annually to the most outstanding work featured in the exhibition.

Vaynman, based in Springfield, NSW, created Hope using bronze and stainless steel, blending abstraction and symbolism to explore humanity’s place in a rapidly changing world. The work reflects his personal anxieties and questions about whether we are facing “the precipice of crisis and catastrophe or a hopeful and bright future,” inviting viewers into a space of reflection and imagination.

The other two pieces, Wren Temple by Paul Bacon, winner of the Friends of Sculptures in the Garden Prize, and Rimsky by David Horton, winner of the Fernside Pastoral Company Prize, will be installed along the Rylstone River Walk.

Sculptures in the Garden founder and curator Kay Norton-Knight praised the calibre the 2024 entries.

“The sheer creativity and quality of the submissions were astounding,” she said.

“It was a tough decision for the judging panel, but the winning entries truly stood out for their originality, craftsmanship and connection to the theme of art and nature. Congratulations to all our winners and participants.”

Mayor Des Kennedy encouraged residents to enjoy the sculptures in Mudgee, Gulgong, Kandos and Rylstone that have been acquired over more than a decade.

“These new additions further enrich the region’s growing public art collection and reinforce the value of regional arts and cultural experiences.

“Council is proud to support Sculptures in the Garden and help grow the region’s public art offering, contributing to the region’s cultural vibrancy.”