The 2020 format - updated to comply with COVID-safe guidelines and running for two weeks from October 10 to 25 - was well received with nearly 5,000 guests attending. During that time over $12,000 raised for not-for-profit partner, Guide Dogs NSW/ACT.

"We have been overwhelmed with the support we have received for this year's event," SIG founder and curator Kay Norton-Knight said.

"At one point in the midst of COVID and the ramifications of the pandemic, we didn't think the event would be possible. However, we pushed on and made it happen and we are so thrilled that we did.

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"The support not only from our own community but from all those across NSW who came to visit, as well, of course, from our artists who poured their time, energy and frustrations into their beautiful works has been marvellous.

"This was the first exhibition for people to be able to exhibit at since COVID and to be able to offer that light for artists was really a driving force for us. We know how much creating art for the enjoyment of others is at the core of the work artists do and to be able to offer this platform after all of the hardship of the last year, was a huge motivator for the committee in forging ahead."

Visitors to the event were able to view over 250 works on display, all of which were for sale with prices ranging from $300 to $30,000. And artworks that remain on site at Rosby at the artist's request will continue to be for sale.

"The quality of the works on display also signalled just how much of a reputation our humble community-minded exhibition has garnered over the years. We had really reputable names involved such as Harrie Fasher and Stephen King and Joanne Capon and Susan Rothwell joined our judging panel for the first time," Kay said.

"We're really excited about the future of the event and have some really exciting plans going forward. We debuted the newly completed Rosby Gallery at this year's event which was really well received for its first exhibition and it will play host to many exhibitions between now and the next annual Sculptures in the Garden event next year."

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