“The Old Bus” is a powerful and evocative painting by Brian Carew-Hopkins, capturing the essence of decay and abandonment. Originally bought by the artist’s parents in the 1950s, the bus was meant to serve as sleeping quarters for the shearing team that visited the farm annually. However, it was never completed and instead sat under a tree for 40 years, becoming a kids’ playground and storage shed. The painting depicts the bus in a state of disrepair, with broken windows and a ghostly aura surrounding the trees. The rocky ground adds to the feeling of decay, making the painting a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the passage of time. Painted in 1981, this piece showcases Brian’s skill and mastery of representational oil on canvas art, and is a highlight of his WA wheatbelt period.

AI Valuation

Artwork Price Range: The price range for `The Old Bus` by Brian Carew-Hopkins, a 36cm x 54cm oil painting on board, can vary depending on several factors such as the artist`s reputation and recognition, the artwork`s condition and authenticity, and the uniqueness of the artwork itself. Brian Carew-Hopkins, as an artist with a rich artistic journey and innovative approach to art, has garnered recognition locally in Perth, Western Australia, and has been invited to exhibit his work in San Francisco. His creation of the Revelationist art style, blending physical and digital elements, adds a unique and intriguing dimension to his artwork, setting him apart in the art world. This recognition and innovation contribute to the value of his artwork. `The Old Bus` holds sentimental value for the artist`s family, being a treasured piece from his early catalogue of representational works on the family farm. Its original new condition and the fact that it has not been previously available for purchase further add to its authenticity and desirability. The artwork description of `The Old Bus` highlights its powerful and evocative nature, capturing the essence of decay and abandonment with skill and mastery. The poignant reminder of the passage of time and the fleeting nature of life portrayed in the painting adds emotional depth and significance to the piece. Considering the artist`s reputation and recognition, the artwork`s condition and authenticity, and the emotional impact of the artwork itself, the price range for `The Old Bus` by Brian Carew-Hopkins would likely fall within the range of $3,000 to $5,000. This price range reflects the combination of artistic value, sentimentality, and uniqueness embodied in the painting, making it a valuable addition to a collector`s or art enthusiast`s collection.