Hive Gallery’s touching tribute

WHEN painter Kate Gorman began preparing for Encircle, she thought she’d be sharing the exhibition with her dear friend and long-time collaborator, the late Dianne Mangan.

The two had exhibited together over the years and shared a deep creative friendship. Dianne even featured Kate’s work at her former Milawa gallery, OffCentre.

Instead, Encircle, running through August at The Hive Gallery in Ocean Grove, has become a quiet tribute – a reflection on memory, influence, and artistic legacy.

Gorman’s vibrant, abstract paintings are rich with layered mark-making and personal symbology.

Travel, colour, and culture pulse through the work, but this exhibition reaches inward, honouring memory and connection.

“It’s about how people shape you, how places stay with you, and how art brings it all into view,” Kate said.

Ceramicist Glenn England joins the exhibition, bringing her own reflections on life cycles and regeneration through a body of finely textured ceramic vessels.

One, titled Encircle, was made especially in honour of Dianne – a singular porcelain form that sits quietly in the space.

Together, the works in Encircle form a tender conversation across time and medium.

“It’s not the exhibition we planned, but it’s the one that’s meant to be,” Kate said.

“Di and I had planned this show together. Her absence is deeply felt. In a way, she’s still here.”

Encircle runs from August 1 to August 31 at The Hive Gallery, 1/41 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove.

Open Friday to Sunday 10am until 4pm or by appointment.

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