Venture into the extraordinary and explore Inside Australia—the world’s largest outdoor art gallery.

Set against the dramatic, blinding-white expanse of the Lake Ballard salt plain, this internationally acclaimed exhibition seamlessly blends world-class contemporary art with the raw, timeless beauty of the Western Australian Outback.

The Story Behind the Art

Commissioned in 2003 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Perth International Arts Festival, Inside Australia is the visionary creation of world-renowned British artist Sir Antony Gormley.

  • The Sculptures: The installation consists of 51 striking, black chromium steel sculptures.

  • The Locals: Each figure is uniquely derived from digital laser scans of the actual inhabitants of Menzies. To this day, many of these residents still live and work within our community.

  • An Individual Touch: While the figures may look similar at a glance, each one is a distinct individual. Gormley digitally reduced the width of the residents' bodies by 50% to create their haunting, stick-like appearance, but kept their exact heights intact. If you look closely, the unique stature and posture of each real-life resident remains perfectly preserved.

  • The Scale: These ghost-like figures are scattered across a vast 10 square kilometres of the salt lake, shimmering like mirages in the desert heat.

Planning Your Visit

Lake Ballard is located 51km west of the Menzies townsite. While the journey offers a classic Outback drive, please check the local road condition report prior to setting out.

🕒 Timing & Duration

  • Best Viewing Times: Early morning or late afternoon. The low sun stretches the sculptures' shadows dramatically across the salt plain, creating an unforgettable visual experience.

  • Time to Allocate: Allow at least 2 to 3 hours to walk through the installation. Because the sculptures are spaced roughly 500 metres apart, viewing the entire collection will take considerably longer.

⛺ Overnight Camping

Camping is highly recommended! Experience the magic of an Outback sunset and unmatched stargazing under our dark skies. Free bush camping is available on-site in designated areas only.

🪵 Fire Restrictions: Shire fire restrictions apply from November to March annually. Please use the cement fire rings provided outside restricted periods and bring your own firewood.

⚠️ Essential Safety & Care Guidelines

The Outback environment can be beautiful but harsh. Please read the following guidelines carefully before stepping onto the lake:

  • DO NOT DRIVE ON THE LAKE: Vehicles cause irreparable damage to the lake's surface and easily get bogged. Visitors must park strictly in the designated parking area and explore on foot.

  • Stay Hydrated: There is no treated drinking water available at Lake Ballard. You must bring plenty of your own fresh water for drinking.

  • Sun Protection: The white salt surface intensely reflects the sun's rays. Wear appropriate footwear, a hat, sunglasses, long sleeves, and apply plenty of high-SPF sunscreen.

  • The Buddy System: For your safety, always walk the installation in a minimum group of two.

  • Underfoot Conditions: The lake surface can become wet, muddy and unstable after rain. Wear appropriate, old footwear. Take care on the loose rocks around the lake's central mounds and islands.

  • Leave No Trace: Please be considerate of this pristine environment. Take all rubbish away with you or place it securely in the bins provided.

Find Out More

Souvenir books, a project DVD, and regional maps are available at the Menzies Visitor Centre (located within the historic Former Lady Shenton Hotel on the corner of Shenton & Brown Streets).

For more detailed historical background, artist interviews, and photo galleries, visit the official "Inside Australia" website.