Nestled in the heart of Melrose Arch, The Melrose Gallery plays host to SculptX, the largest annual sculpture fair in the country.
Every year, this prestigious event transforms the gallery and Melrose Arch urban precinct into a bustling hub of creativity, attracting art enthusiasts, collectors, and curious onlookers alike. As SculptX enters its seventh year, it promises once again to showcase a stunning array of sculptures, each one a testament to the boundless imagination and skill of its creators.
One of the most compelling aspects of SculptX is its inclusivity and diversity. The fair welcomes dozens of artists each year, who collectively present hundreds of sculptures. SculptX is also unique in that it specifically avoids setting a specific theme or brief as artists are free to express their creativity in any form and medium they choose. This results in a mesmerizing variety of sculptures ranging from pieces small enough to fit on your desk to monumental works that require cranes for installation.
The materials used in these sculptures are as varied as the artists themselves. From traditional mediums like bronze and marble to unconventional ones such as recycled materials and modern composites, SculptX is a celebration of artistic freedom. This diversity not only highlights the versatility of sculpture as an art form but also offers something for everyone, whether you prefer the classical or the avant-garde.
Unforgettable moments abound
Reflecting on the past six years, SculptX has given us numerous unforgettable moments. One of the most impressive feats involved craning in three massive sculptures by Pitika Ntuli and Carol Cauldwell, each weighing a few tons. These colossal pieces were not just feats of artistic excellence but also engineering marvels, demonstrating the incredible scale and ambition of the fair.
The opening nights of SculptX are events in themselves, drawing thousands of visitors over the years. These openings typically have more than 300 people passing through the gallery doors on the first night alone. The buzz of excitement, the hum of conversation, and the collective awe as visitors take in the sculptures create an atmosphere of shared appreciation and wonder.
Without giving away too much, visitors to Melrose Arch this year will be treated to numerous monumental statures of figures in different poses created by Strijdom van der Merwe, the respected land artist, a captivating work by Alexander Stavvas titled Anemoi. Created from polished stainless-steel tubes. ‘Anemoi’, 2022 is laid out based on geometric patterns rooted in nature.
The reflective and multi-faceted surface of the sculpture mirrors a warped version of its surrounding environment. As the kinetic energy of the wind passes through the intricately layered pipes it whistles and sings. An audible and optical manifestation of the air itself.
The seventh installment of SculptX promises to continue its tradition of excellence, innovation, and sheer artistic brilliance. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector, an aspiring artist, or simply someone who appreciates beauty and creativity, SculptX offers an experience that is both enriching and inspiring.
This year’s installment of SculptX takes place at The Melrose Gallery in Melrose Arch from the 6th of September until the 3rd of November.
