Perth sculptor finds inspiration in sailing heritage
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Tony Jones, an 81-year-old sculptor from Perth, Australia, draws inspiration from a lifetime of sailing on the Swan River.
His artwork often features maritime themes and incorporates boat parts, reflecting his deep connection to the water. Jones has spent 30 years collecting historic wooden sailing dinghies, preserving pieces of Western Australia’s sailing past. Jones’s sculptures include a popular statue of Eliza in the Swan River and a landmark statue of CY O’Connor in North Coogee.
However, his true passion lies in the boats themselves, which he sees as links to the past and beautiful objects in their own right. He is currently working with Matt Dickmann to restore two “Sharpies”, boats used by Rolly Tasker and Malcolm Scott when they won Australia’s first Olympic sailing medal at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics. To preserve this history, Jones co-founded the Swan River Sailing Dinghy Heritage Association with friends and volunteers.
The group seeks a permanent location to display the restored dinghies, envisioning a boat shed near the river where enthusiasts can gather and appreciate the craftsmanship. Lotterywest has provided a grant for the restoration of Tasker’s Sharpies and supports the idea of public display. The association is currently working with local governments, yacht clubs, and the WA Maritime Museum to find a suitable home for the collection.
