FORM is calling for visionary artists to shape a world-class cultural landmark: the Esperance Sculpture Trail. Across a region of dramatic coastline, woodland and wetland, up to 21 permanent artworks will take their place in one of Australia's most striking landscapes.
Deep Roots, Unbounded Vision
Shaped by 18 months of deep community co-design, the trail balances large-scale landmarks with intimate discoveries. Our core principle is simple: who owns the story, tells the story. Artists will work with Traditional Owners, residents and community groups so that each artwork carries lived experience.
Rooted in the curatorial themes of Edge, Future, and Resilience, this initiative aims to deliver place-responsive contemporary art across Kepa Kurl.
Opportunities
Baarndi Trail - local artists
Sixteen commissions of $25,000 to $35,000 each, excluding footings and installation. Small scale standalone works along the coastal dune path linking Castletown Quays with Bandy Creek and the marina. Open to artists who live in or can demonstrate strong links to the Shire of Esperance. Emerging and established artists both welcome.
If you have never held a public art commission over $50,000, you are an emerging artist for this project. Apply for the Baarndi Trail and FORM will guide you through the design process, with a network of designers and consultants to bring your vision to life.
Helms Arboretum, Great Ocean Trail, Lake Monjingup and Salmon Gums
Landmark or experience-based works, $400,000 to $800,000 each. Open EOI, established artists.
Esperance Jetty
An artwork in the ocean area near the jetty and shoreline, $500,000 to $900,000. Open EOI, established artists.
All sites remain subject to approvals and may not go ahead. Budgets will be confirmed once approvals are issued.
Key Dates
EOI Submissions Due: 5 PM AWST, Monday 14 September 2026
Shortlist Notification: Monday 21 September 2026
Concept Proposals Due: Mid-October 2026
Contracting: Late October 2026
Ready to apply?
Bring your work to one of Western Australia's most extraordinary coastlines.
Download the full Artist Brief and submit your EOI application as a single PDF to:
Alyssa Reid
SENIOR PRODUCER
alyssa.reid@form.net.au
Apply for as many opportunities as you like, noting that each submission requires its own statement of intent.
want to chat?
Our team are happy to assist or chat you through an idea. Feel free to reach out to our Artistic Director Alex Desebrock at alex@canneryarts.com.au for advice. For assistance with your application, please reach out to Alyssa Reid, Senior Producer at FORM alyssa.reid@form.net.au