With the backdrop of Fort Scratchley and the Newcastle coastline, Sculptures@Scratchley welcomed hundreds of visitors to its inaugural open day on Saturday.
Teralba-based artist and exhibit organiser Grahame Wilson said visitors were impressed with the works on display from a range of Hunter and interstate artists.
"We've done it," Mr Wilson told the Newcastle Herald.
"It's been a fantastic day, everyone has been so supportive and while the whale draws in the crowds, everyone has enjoyed all sculptures."
The fort's guns were fired to kick-off the exhibit, which will be open until May 28.
"There's been a big build up to the launch and the response of the public has been great," Mr Wilson said.
"It's been a huge success and we hope that continues over the next 20-odd days."
To see more stories and read today's paper download the Newcastle Herald news app here.
