Arts on the Peninsula featuring Montalto and Frankston Arts Centre

ARTS ON THE PENINSULA

Jos Van Julsen with his winning entry in the 2021 Montalto Sculpture Prize.

The art of sculpture at Montalto

Nestled in the hinterland at Red Hill South, Montalto vineyard, winery and restaurant has become a much-loved destination on the Mornington Peninsula for good reason. In addition to award-winning wine, exceptional food, and magnificent views, the Montalto Sculpture Prize and Sculpture Trail is another major drawcard here.

The Montalto Sculpture Prize is among the most valuable private sculpture prizes in Australia; the prize value for 2021 was $40,000. It is also the longest-running consecutive sculpture prize in Australia, with 2021 marking the 19th exhibition and prize. The first exhibition in 2003 saw 17 finalists competing for an $8000 prize. From then through to 2020, Montalto has exhibited 468 entries and awarded more than $410,000 in prize money.

The Sculpture Trail winds its way through the beautiful property, and the natural gallery provides diverse settings for the sculptures on display. Keep your eyes peeled to discover intimate works positioned among the wetlands and vines, while monumental pieces are easy to see in open spaces that complement their scale. The permanent collection on the trail now consists of 33 sculptures and is one of the most visited attractions on the Peninsula.

The trail is about 1km long and suitable for most ages and abilities. It meanders over grassy lawns and gravel pathways, through vines and wetland boardwalks. The grounds are undulating and reasonably steep in sections, and there are benches dotted along the walk for a well-earned rest as you go. It’s best to wear walking shoes or gumboots if the weather is wet, but don’t let a bit of rain deter you – dress for the conditions and immerse yourself in art and nature in this stunning setting.

The grounds at Montalto are open daily from 11am-5pm, and it’s recommended you allow an hour to enjoy the trail across the estate. For a ‘virtual sculpture tour’, see Montalto’s Facebook and Instagram pages; the collection is showcased every Monday. You can also follow #montaltosculptureprize

Sculpture prize entries for 2022 will be called for in July, with finalists on display at Montalto from mid-November. MONTALTO A: 33 Shoreham Rd, Red Hill South W: www.montalto.com.au

Jos Van Hulsen with his winning entry in the 2021 Montalto Sculpture Prize.