Surrealist piece joins collection

WA’S resources boom and two-speed economy formed the basis of Laurie Posa’s surrealist artwork in this year’s South Western Times Survey.

The painting impressed the City of Bunbury Art Collection committee which decided to buy the work to add to the city’s acquisitions.

‘‘It is a quirky, topical piece which is identifiably West Australian,’’ committee chairwoman Tresslyn Smith said.

‘‘We chose Mr Posa’s work because it is a part of our policy to collect several pieces of art by the same artist in case we decide to hold a retrospective exhibition and we bought another piece by Mr Posa a few years ago.’’

Mr Posa said mining in WA and its sustainability and social impact had captured his imagination.

‘‘It bothers me that this State has a two-speed economy, mining is a juggernaut in top gear widening the gap between the rest of us who are trying to kick start our mopeds in a futile attempt to catch up,’’ he said.

‘‘For this painting I have imagined The Diggers and Dealers Ball where the State’s resources are depicted as an all-you-can-eat buffet.

‘‘The ordinary folks such as you and I are the galahs — honest and loyal but far too trusting and easily addicted to short-term gain in order to fund our modest dreams.’’

This year’s exhibition, sponsored by the South Western Times,marks the sixth time that Mr Posa has had works shown in the premier event.

‘‘It’s a really good venue to hang your work especially alongside such fantastic South West artists,’’ Mr Posa said.

‘‘It’s an honour to have anyone buy your work and it’s an honour to have your work added to such a prestigious collection.’’

With a history dating back 25 years, the South Western Times Survey celebrates the depth and diversity of the arts in the region.

The exhibition runs until April 9.