Image: Perc Tucker Regional Gallery
Entries are now open for 'Strand Ephemera' 2027, the outdoor sculpture exhibition that will return to Townsville’s beachfront from 24 July to 8 August 2027. Artists from across Australia are invited to submit proposals for the event, which is described in the source material as one of Northern Australia’s largest and most celebrated outdoor sculpture exhibitions.
The call for artists positions the exhibition as a short-run public art project centred on The Strand in Townsville. According to the event announcement, 'Strand Ephemera' will transform the beachfront into a dynamic pop-up public art gallery for 16 days, presenting a curated collection of works by local, national and internationally recognised artists. The organisers say the exhibition is intended to encourage community engagement and conversation around contemporary ideas in shared spaces.
The 2027 edition will include the return of the Young Artists Category, Open Competitive Category and People’s Choice Award, along with a new Environmental Advocate Award. The announcement also notes that artists are encouraged to create bold and innovative works that celebrate Queensland’s unique stories, spark curiosity and foster connection. No selection outcomes or artist names are given in the call.
Prizes announced for the 2027 exhibition include a $10,000 Artistic Excellence Award, a $1,000 Young Artistic Excellence Award, a $1,000 Environmental Advocate Award and a $1,000 People’s Choice Award. The source material also characterises 'Strand Ephemera' as an ephemeral exhibition, emphasising that it will exist for just 16 days and will be accompanied by a programme of events and public programs bringing art, nature and community together.
The submission deadline is listed as 10am AEST on Tuesday, 3 November 2026 in the linked call for artists. The news item accompanying the announcement gives a deadline of Tuesday, 3 November 2026. The source material does not provide further details on eligibility beyond directing prospective applicants to strandephemera.com.au for entry information, exhibition details and requirements.
Perc Tucker Regional Gallery’s newsletter identifies Townsville City Council’s galleries and theatre services in its institutional context, and the council website notes that the city has a bi-annual sculpture festival called 'Ephemera'. The 2027 event is scheduled to take place at The Strand, Townsville, from 24 July to 8 August 2027.
