Albany 2026: Sculpture at Binalup outdoor exhibition under way at Binalup/Middleton Beach creating connection

Artworks have come alive along the shoreline at Binalup/Middleton Beach, transforming the coastal landscape into an open-air gallery as the 2026 Sculpture at Binalup exhibition gets under way.

Launched on Friday, the event will run until April 19, showcasing 16 striking works set against the natural beauty of the coast.

Sculpture at Binalup invited artists to spark conversations and share stories that honour the history, culture and future aspirations of the place, creating a powerful connection between art, land and community.

Textile artist Lynley Campbell was one of the 16 artists that entered a piece into the exhibition and said her work shows connection of the place to the people.

“My piece is called Connected Threads — so it’s about how this (Binalup) has been a meeting and gathering place like it has been for Menang people and it will continue to be in the future,” she said.

“It’s about the connection that we all have when we’re here.

“You see people exercising, family barbecues, chatting with friends so its about social connection with everyone.

“But we’re all different which is why they’re (the spikes) all different kinds but we are all connected and we all kind of need each other to belong.”

Campbell said her artwork invited active community participation.

“What I’m asking people to do is write on a piece of paper their hopes or dreams or wishes for the future or for themselves and roll it up and tie it on red thread and pin it,” she said.

She said the Sculpture at Binalup event has created a wonderful community atmosphere.

“I think it’s a wonderful example of a community activity that’s brought out so many people — everybody’s stopping and looking,” she said.

“People are really sitting down and lingering and taking photos — I think it’s just terrific.

“I’ve heard so much positive feedback saying, ‘I hope it’s going to be here next year’.”

Artistic director of the event Mae Elliott said it was amazing watching the community engage with the artworks and share this experience with one another.

“I’m loving the way that the community are engaging with the artworks and really slowing down and taking in the detail and sharing their experiences with each other,” she said.

“I’m really proud for this to be happening.”

Elliott said there are many different workshops and artist talks occurring throughout the exhibition and invited people to go to the website for further details.