Bay art inspirations

A famous 19th century Australian impressionist painting has inspired Bernard Werner’s first entry to Dunsborough’s Sculpture by the Bay exhibition.

The Busselton resident said the Frederick McCubbin painting titled Down on his Luck had stuck with him since he first saw it at the WA Museum 20 years ago.

His “modern version” of the work, included a man sitting in the same dejected pose as that of the painting looking at his broken motorbike.

Various metal objects including a lawnmower engine, pliers, horse shoes and pot belly parts were used to construct the motorbike.

Mr Werner, a semi-retired chef, said he created sculptures as a hobby.

Part of the Dunsborough Art Festival, the exhibition will be on display at Dunsborough Foreshore from Saturday, March 3, to Monday, March 5.

The official opening is at 9.30am Saturday.

Exhibition convener Nita Pratt said there were more than 26 entries this year vying for a prize pool of more than $8000.

“From banners to wind chimes; surfers and totems, there will be something for everyone,” she said.

“The public are encouraged to vote for their favourite piece.”