"This event is a fundraiser for Sculpture in the Gaol," said event coordinator Phil Nicholas.

"Now that the exhibition is produced by a sub-committee of Macleay Valley Arts Council, funds raised will contribute to the artist prize pool and marketing campaign.

"It's a great way to bring artists, our generous sponsors and the general public together for an evening of art and entertainment."

"We're laying on complimentary food for guests and Kempsey's Bucket Brewery will be serving craft beer. And artist Chris Edwards will be announcing the Sculpture in the Gaol Judge's Art Prize."

Local performance artists Timbadim and Joey from Pixie Flames will present a new work titled Café, commissioned for this event.

"I'm trying something I've never seen or done before, combining clowning, magic, story-telling and fire twirling all in to one piece of performance," Timbadim said.

More than 100 works have been submitted for this year's exhibition and this event provides a rare opportunity to view sculptures in spot-lit cells after dark.

In recent years the sculpture exhibition has generated up to 5000 visits to the Gaol during the month of August and the organisers are working hard to attract visitors to South West Rocks during the tourist low-season and to support local business.

Tickets for Gaol After Dark cost $20 and can be purchases via the Sculpture in the Gaol website.

For more information visit https://www.sculptureinthegaol.com.au/ and follow @sculptureinthegaol

Stay ahead with local news by signing up for the Macleay Argus newsletter here.

Also making the news: