The Living Desert Sculptures are a remarkable collection of 12 sandstone sculptures located a short drive north of Broken Hill in the Living Desert Reserve. The Living Desert and Sculptures were created during a 1993 international symposium with artists from around the world, including Syria, Mexico, and Georgia, collaborating to craft these stunning works of art. Each sculpture is crafted from sandstone brought in from the Wilcannia region, two hours away.
The sculptures are positioned atop Sundown Hill within the Living Desert Reserve, a 180-hectare flora and fauna sanctuary providing habitat for native species. From the sculptures, visitors can admire panoramic views of the surrounding outback landscape. Living Desert Sculptures can be accessed by car or by a short walking trail and are particularly captivating at sunset, casting long shadows and glowing in the warm light, making it a favourite spot for photographers.
On April 1, 1993, in the middle of the desert outside Broken Hill, a successful sculpture symposium was held on a majestic hilltop within the centre of the reserve. It involved artists from around the world, under the direction of Gosford-based sculptor Lawrence Beck.
53 tonnes of sandstone blocks were shipped in from the Wilcannia region, and the artists began working on 12 sandstone sculptures. Six weeks later, they unveiled their creations on Sundown Hill, each with a unique story. Today, the Living Desert Sculptures have become a popular spot for locals and visitors to take in the beauty and peace of this amazing Australian outback gallery.
The spot chosen as home to the sculptures is perfect, with sweeping views over the outback landscape. At various times of the day, the sculptures take on different ‘moods.’ Photographers can be found heading out at sunset to capture some magical shots.
The Living Desert is a unique 2400-hectare reserve that began in 1992. The topography, scenery and views within the reserve are breathtaking and can be enjoyed from several walking trails.
Amid the gullies and rocky outcrops of the reserve is the John Simons Living Desert Flora and Fauna Sanctuary, sitting on 180 hectares, bordered by an electric fence to keep out predators.
The sanctuary is a haven for nature lovers and has been carefully designed to provide visitors with a unique insight into the local flora, fauna and Aboriginal culture.
On the 2.2-kilometre Sanctuary Cultural Walk Trail, visitors discover wildflowers, an arboretum of native plants, Aboriginal Heritage sites, scenic lookouts, a prospector mine site and plenty of wallaroos and red kangaroos.
The John Simons Flora and Fauna Sanctuary was named after the late John Simons, a local councillor who was instrumental in setting up the Living Desert reserve.
The Living Desert sculptures are on Sundown Hill in the Living Desert Reserve, nestled amongst the Barrier Ranges. The reserve is nine kilometres, just a 15-minute drive north of the city of Broken Hill, NSW.
The Living Desert Sculptures in Broken Hill can be accessed by a 90-metre walking trail starting from the Living Desert Flora and Fauna Sanctuary car park. Visitors can also access the sculptures by vehicle.
Lawrence Beck is an NSW sculptor who organised the sculpture symposium where the Living Desert Sculptures were created. He is an active member of the arts community and has organised several sculpture symposia around NSW. He was the artist responsible for carving the memorial sculpture for Fred Hollows' grave in Bourke in north-western NSW.
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