Historical information

This framed drawing depicts a small vessel wrecked on the shore, resting on rocks, with sea in the background. The artist, Norm Cooper, created the drawing in 1976. He was a well-liked and respected local artist and surfer. The picture was framed in Warrnambool by Stuart Prince in the 1980s.

Norm Cooper passed away in 1988. The Southwest Boardriders inaugural Norm Cooper Memorial contest, the 'Normie' , was held in 2015 in his honour, "celebrating the legacy of one of the region's most legendary surfers" (a quote from the Southwest Boardriders).

The name of the vessel in the drawing, '726 Willpower', may represent one of several yachts that have the name 'Willpower'.

The framer, Stuart Prince Picture Framing, was a local business, Prince was one of the owners of the Henna Street Picture Framers at 74 Henna Street, Warrnambool. He retired in 2019 after 22 years in the business.

Significance

This line drawing's subject is a wrecked vessel, connected to the local theme of maritime history, the 'Shipwreck Coast'.

Physical description

Drawing, pen and ink line drawing on white paper, in black painted wooden frame with gilt border. Subject is a single masted vessel beached on rocks on shore, with two sailing ships on sea in background. Name on side of vessel is "726 Willpower". Inscription on front and back. Created in 1976, framed in 1980s.
Artist was Norm Cooper. Framed in Warrnambool by Stuart Prince Picture Framing.

Inscriptions & markings

Name on vessel: "726 WILLPOWER",
Written on centre lower edge "N. Cooper '76"
Stamped in black ink on backing paper: "STUART PRINCE PICTURE FRAMING"