Dimensions: 32cmH x 20cmL x 4cmW

Media:  Olive Wood, Mild Steel, Burned Pine. 

Our marine life is precious and here Alan has stylised one of our iconic fish species, Old Wives, synonymous with the south-west coastline. The metaphor in the sculpture is demonstrated through the timber base surrounding this fish. It shows that we can offer our marine life protection, and we should.

The body of the fish is carved from olive branches pruned at Cape Mentelle Wines, Margaret River. The fins and tails are cut from an old oil drum that once lay alongside the highway, near Cowaramup. Every component has a story.

The artist's use of recycling components and his subject choices, demonstrates his commitment to the environment and sustainability.

Care for sculpture
The steel and timber compliments can be treated with a simple coating of linseed oil and turpentine in 50/50 mixture - lightly brushed on. Put the sculpture outside on a hot day – this allows the oil to penetrate and leave a thin, even film of oil.  This coating can be applied as regularly as every 6 months – this is recommended if the piece is outdoors and exposed to the elements. If indoors, the process can be repeated every few years. Any commercially available furniture oil (or wax), such as tung oil, can be used for this application.