The Hive proves a popular venue on Bellarine Arts Trail

THE Hive Gallery in Ocean Grove is busily preparing for its involvement in the third annual Bellarine Arts Trail.

One of the most popular venues on the trail each year, the Hive is thrilled to welcome back regular local artists Pam Wilson, Richard Weatherly, William Linford, Wayne Elliott, and Margie Delahunty Spencer.

On show will be a large selection of works by internationally renowned bronze bird sculptor Lucy McEachern.

Lucy has just returned from her seventh representation at the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wisconsin USA, famous for its annual Bird Art Exhibition.

Pam Connelly is a new artist to the trail and a talented local.

Having lived by the sea her entire life in both Ocean Grove and Cape Bridgewater, the ocean is ingrained in her painterly soul.

Pam is inspired to capture the mist and energy the ocean and weather creates, and does so with a deft, delicate touch.

William Linford will present several new works, continuing his themes of team work, togetherness, our similarities and differences with signature symbols and environmental references.

Nathan Wilkinson previously opened his Ocean Grove home studio during the 2017 trail but this year joins the Hive gathering with a selection of new works.

Wayne Elliott has had a very successful year exhibiting both in Australia and presenting at the largest Naïve Art exhibition in Europe, held in an abandoned mine shaft in Katowice, Poland.

Wayne will showcase art inspired by all his travels.

Richard Weatherly has recently returned from Milan, the recipient of an Eco Stewardship Award for his contribution to the Australian Woollen Industry.

In between this and continuing an active role on the family property, he has found time to paint the famous local, vulnerable Hooded Plover chicks.

Margaret Delahunty Spencer creates beautiful abstract works, her newest inspired by “the natural world, the play of insects, rhythmic pattern of the bees, conversations of the birds and breathtaking scapes of the oceans, plains and sky”.

Finally, Will Wilson of Willie Wildlife Sculptures, will showcase his new bronze native Australian animal designs and launch the Apple, a stand out piece that would enhance any lawn.

Wander in the sculpture garden and enjoy coffee and refreshments at Stone & Grain behind the gallery.

The Hive will be open at 41 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove, on the Bellarine Arts Trail weekend of November 3 and 4 from 10am to 4pm. Head to thehiveoceangrove.com.au.