This summer, Manly Art Gallery & Museum (MAG&M) is inviting locals and visitors alike to experience a vibrant new exhibition, Garden Variety.
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Presented by Northern Beaches Council as part of MAG&M’s Collective for Environmental Art & Design (CEAD) programme, Garden Variety features five contemporary Australian artists: Natasha Bieniek, Lucy Culliton, Nic Fern, Michael Kempson and Louise Zhang.
Visitors can expect a diverse mix of painting, printmaking and mixed‑media works. Natasha Bieniek’s miniature oil paintings capture botanical detail with precision, allowing viewers to appreciate the complexity of flowers and foliage. Louise Zhang presents vibrant, surreal compositions that merge floral imagery with cultural symbolism, creating works that are visually striking and thought‑provoking.
Lucy Culliton contributes expressive depictions of rural gardens, bringing a personal and intimate perspective to the exhibition. Michael Kempson’s etchings offer layered narratives of landscape and memory. Nic Fern’s abstract works explore the emotional resonance of natural forms through texture and colour. A temporary bonsai display adds a living element to the gallery space, complementing the artworks on show.
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a contemplative summer outing, Garden Variety offers an immersive experience that celebrates both creativity and the beauty of gardens.
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Mayor Sue Heins praised the exhibition: “Garden Variety is a beautiful reminder of how deeply gardens are woven into our lives,” noting that the show reflects on “themes of harmony, control, beauty and the natural world.”
MAG&M is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm, at West Esplanade Reserve, Manly. For further details and ticket information, visit the gallery’s website.
Published 12-November-2025
