Situated by the entrance to Brighton Dog Beach (also known as Sandown Street Beach), lies the “Summertime” Dog Sculpture. This eye-catching and rather amusing piece of public art was designed and constructed by local artist Anne Ross.

The work depicts a large, free-standing dog, sculpted wearing sunglasses with ears pinned back blowing in the wind. Beside the dog, there is an abstract singular tree and both sit on a large rectangular base, engaging the many visitors who come to this area to stroll along the coastal path.

The work was unveiled to the public at a ceremony by local Councillor Laurence Evans in December 2017. It’s composed of bronze and finished with a special form of polyurethane paint. Having graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Victoria College in the nearby suburb of Prahran, Ross developed a reputation for her quirky and life-like sculptures. This is just one example of her public commissions found across Australia. 

Brighton Dog Beach is one of Melbourne’s most popular spots for taking dogs to the seaside. The beach is fenced off, allowing dogs to roam off-leash all year round.