Sculptor and Artist-in-Residence Peter Syndicas to present art workshop in Hydeaway Bay

Peter Syndicas at Chapel Hill Winery in McLaren Vale with his 2022 commission.

ARI Whitsundays and the Whitsundays Arts Festival are excited to announce the 2025 Artist-in-Residence Program will feature the renowned sculptor, Peter Syndicas. As part of this program, Peter will immerse himself in the Whitsundays' landscape, creating new works inspired by the region’s environment. Peter will be sourcing locally found stone for his sculptures, reinforcing the program’s focus on place-based artistic practice.

Peter Syndicas is celebrated for his dynamic, large-scale sculptures, such as his most recent installation, Celestial Lifeform, an 11-metre-long artwork at Burnside Village in Adelaide’s Luxury Shopping Centre. His work often reflects his deep connection to nature, inspired by the organic shapes of the world around him. Renowned for his bronze and stone forms, his sculptures are born from the likeness of a twig that he’s collected on walks through parks and on camping trips. “When I look at twigs, I don’t see a twig – I see a human form in a pose and often, they’re akin to dancers,” says Peter. Over close to three decades, Peter has tirelessly honed his craft to create artworks that have been exhibited in prestigious Australian galleries. He’s created work for clients including Hotel Eos by SkyCity and the luxury Singapore resort Marina Bay Sands.

In addition to his residency, ARI Whitsundays is proud to present a Community Artist Forum and Arts Workshop, a Sand Casting Workshop with Peter Syndicas, to be held at the Gloucester Sports and Recreation Centre in Hydeaway Bay on Saturday 27 September from 9:30am to 12:30pm. This event will offer local artists and art enthusiasts an opportunity to participate in a dynamic discussion and hands-on workshop, facilitated by Peter Syndicas. Topics will include the intersection of art and environment, the creative process, and strategies for engaging with public art projects.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own twig, washed-up flotsam, or coral for the sand casting process. "This is a fun and experimental approach to 3D art-making," said Mary Ann Santin, workshop facilitator. "It’s a wonderful opportunity for participants to explore new ways of thinking and making in a supportive, creative space."

Workshop tickets are $25 and spaces are limited. Register for the Sand Casting Workshop.