April Pine's aluminium sculpture bags the Capral Artist Subsidy of $5,000

Australia's largest extruder and distributor of aluminium products, Capral, is thrilled to announce its continued National Supporting Partnership with Sculpture by the Sea. This esteemed annual outdoor sculpture exhibition has captivated audiences for over two decades. A new chapter unfolds in the rich tapestry of Capral and Sculpture by the Sea's collaboration with the introduction of the Capral Artist Subsidy of $5,000.

This prestigious award has been bestowed upon April Pine (WA) in recognition of her exceptional sculpture, 'Echo'. This subsidy demonstrates Capral's commitment to supporting artists and highlights the versatility and merit of aluminium in these dynamic sculpture projects. Capral aims to foster innovation and creativity through this subsidy, empowering artists like April Pine to continue pushing boundaries and creating works that captivate the imagination.

"I am beyond grateful to be supported by Capral this year as this marks my return to sculpture by the sea after having my first baby. The artwork works to feminize a robust and raw metal, marrying it with an exact and robust fabrication methodology to inject a harmonic softness. It becomes complete magic when strength and softness align, and the aluminium emits a warm glow when the afternoon light falls on the sculpture. A personal discovery is that when used innovatively, aluminium can have a depth of warmth in a sea of soft strength, confirming that aluminium was the right choice for this piece," said April Pine. 

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About the event

Held in stunning locations across Australia, such as Bondi Beach and Cottesloe Beach, this event draws in thousands of visitors each year, providing a distinctive opportunity for the public to interact with art amidst a natural and expansive setting. As Australia's premier extruder and distributor of Aluminium products, Capral boasts a longstanding connection with this exhibition, providing crucial material support to numerous exhibiting artists since the inception of Sculpture by the Sea at Cottesloe.

This year, Capral has generously supplied 3.4 tonnes of aluminium to six talented artists from Western Australia: Dr Richard Hammer, Tim Macfarlane-Reid, Anne Neil, Denise Pepper, April Pine, and Erica Zaino. In addition to material provisions, Capral stands by these artists by offering expert technical advice and support throughout the installation process, ensuring their creative visions come to life seamlessly.

Aluminium stands out as an exceptional material for public art for many reasons. Its strength and lightweight nature allow for easy manipulation into various shapes and designs, allowing artists to explore their creativity. Furthermore, aluminium's remarkable resistance to corrosion and weathering makes it an optimal choice for outdoor installations, ensuring longevity and durability even when exposed to the elements.

These qualities have solidified aluminium as a favoured choice among artists and designers undertaking large-scale public art projects and sculptures, much like those featured in Sculpture by the Sea. April Pine's sculpture 'Echo' beautifully showcases the potential of aluminium, standing proudly among over 70 other captivating sculptures featured in this year's exhibition.

"Capral are very proud to continue our long association with Sculpture by the Sea and the WA community, we are excited to be sponsoring 6 local WA Artist at Cottesloe SXS 2024, and we are delighted to see April Pine win our inaugural Capral Artist Subsidy Award," said Nigel Williamson.

"We are delighted to celebrate our 20th annual Sculpture by the Sea, Cottesloe exhibition with Capral, especially given they have been supporting us since the first exhibition in 2005. Congratulations to WA artist April Pine, on receiving the Capral Artist Subsidy. I am sure her sculpture will be a favourite with visitors to the exhibition," said David Handley AM, Founding CEO & Artistic Director of Sculpture by the Sea.