Sculptures strewn on Perth seaside for art's sake

PERTH, Mar 9 (Reuters) A huge eight-ball and an oversized metal tyre are littering a pristine beach in Perth, and it's all in the name of art.

For the next 10 days, Cottesloe Beach in this Western Australian city hosts the ''Sculptures by the Sea'' exhibit that showcases 50 metal works from local and international artists.

Some sculptures have a distinctly nautical theme, such as the 14 metre (46 foot) long submarine based on Captain Nemo's vessel in the Jules Verne novel ''Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea''.

But exhibition director David Handely, said other works were inspired by the environment and lazy days lounging by the surf.

''The artists love it,'' Handley told Reuters Television of the annual exhibit that last year attracted about 45,000 visitors.

''They can interact either with the sand, with the parkland up here, some are out on the path leading out to the groyne, and out at sea'', he said.

Perth artist Jean-Marc Rivalland said billiard games in the local pub inspired his giant ''number eight'' ball sculpture which appears to float in the water.

''The front bar at the Cott was a place where I used to be able to go and have a game of pool and a beer and enjoy the sunset'', he said, using the beach's nickname.

Some sculptures called out to visitors to come and play, such as a pipes with water faucets that is popular with children.

Others, like the bronze of a topless sunbather, blend in with the crowds.

A similiar exhibition is also held on Sydney's famed Bondi beach.

''Sculptures by the Sea'' runs until March 18.

Reuters SY DB1225