Called ‘Even Keel’, the Wanneroo Gallery exhibition also brings to light stories such as the wreck of the merchant ship Alkimos in 1963, crayfishing and its role as a local industry as well as the way recreational activities have continued to change over time.
An impressive focus of the display is a dragon-class ship which has been restored by avid sailor and sculptor Tony Jones with the assistance of artist Matt Dickman. Jones said the craft, built in 1955 in Germany, had a distinguished history and was the recipient of a European world title before heading to Melbourne.
It remained in Australia for several decades with berths in Adelaide and then Peppermint Grove, before time and circumstances saw it fall into disrepair. It was then embraced by the artistic team of Jones and Dickman for restoration and eventual inclusion in the Even Keel exhibition. Specially presented exhibits such as this are often the focus of promotional brochure printing.
Jones said maritime pieces such as the wooden sailing boat were central to his artistic endeavours, adding:
“The restoration of this craft involved scrubbing the lovely teak deck, varnishing the Honduran mahogany exterior and generally tidying up the interior.”
The Even Keel exhibition will continue until April 9.