under bonnet art Page 14

Thinking of splashing a masterpiece under the bonnet? Lovely idea—just make sure the Picasso survives the heat and doesn’t flake off like last week’s sausage roll. Prep is king: degrease thoroughly, scuff with 600–800 grit, and lay down a proper etch or epoxy primer so the paint actually sticks.

Use high-temp engine enamel (rated around 200°C or more) and finish with a heat-resistant clear coat, because bonnets run hotter than a queue for hot chips at the footy. Keep paint thin near latch mechanisms and sensors, and don’t cover any labels you might actually need one day. After it cures, give it a gentle hand wash and avoid pressure washers up close—art is for admiring, not sandblasting. Stand back, lift the lid, and pretend you’re unveiling the Louvre, minus the tourists with selfie sticks.