The HIVE brings good vibes and even better art.
The HIVE brings good vibes and even better art.
If there is one thing we value even more than usual since living in this strange new world (besides midday margaritas), it is mindful creativity and spending time on something that allows us to switch off for a sec.
It’s trying new things, being immersed in making something just for the sake of it, releasing your worries. Sounds heavenly right? Well it is and you can do all of it at Burleigh’s new art gallery and workshop space, The HIVE.
Found on Park Ave, right next door to Erva Nail Spa, The HIVE was opened very recently by Jo Ellings, a Gold Coast artist (and incredible woman) who has been creating stunning works for over 30 years and is now sharing that talent with the likes of us.
Jo has spent time studying in Japan and Italy and as a teacher locally, so all her passions have combined into creating a space where Gold Coasters can go to both peruse world class art and try their hand at making something themselves.
The space itself is brightly lit by natural light that pours in through the front windows, artworks hang from every available space, leather couches make up a cosy chill corner and tables at the back are set out for workshops.
And there are many workshops you’re going to want to get involved in friends. From film photography to watercolour and The HIVE’s specialty, Fresco painting, you need to gather the crew and book yourselves in quick smart.
In case you’d never heard of it before now (same) Fresco – meaning fresh – is the technique of creating master murals upon freshly laid plaster and the result is absolutely magical.
If you’re thinking you’re probably not at that level quite yet (also same), never fear, Jo goes through several preparation techniques to help link your brain to your hand and get you in the zone before you move onto the plaster work. We tried it, it’s very cool.
Plus Jo is very patient and nurturing so you definitely won’t feel like you can’t do it once you’re there, quite the opposite in fact.
Of course, you can purchase all the art within the gallery including some of Jo’s own and some absolutely mind-blowing pieces (think metre tall painted poppies) by a pair of Italian brothers she met while abroad and then had come to stay in her home for a month last year. They’re some of the most incredible works we’ve ever seen.
So, whether you’re in the market for a new feature piece for your home or you’d simply like to practice the art of mindful creativity for awhile, The HIVE is your place.
The perfect addition to Burleigh Heads, packed with good vibes and exactly what we all need.
LOCATION: 5/3 Park Ave, Burleigh Heads
HOURS: Tuesday to Saturday 10am until 4pm, Sunday and Monday by appointment, Wednesday and Thursday 6pm to 8pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
Self care as a term, seems to have only existed for a short while, but is in fact a thing that is both a necessary and enjoyable delight we should all experience daily. Yes daily.
The practice of self care can manifest in many ways depending on you and whatever makes you feel good. You know what makes us feel good? Being pampered by people who care for products that are both good for us and good for the environment.
Which is why it’s both delightful and convenient that Erva Nail Spa opened up in Burleigh Heads recently bringing exactly that to self care-loving Gold Coasters.
The stunning space is the work of local gal Leila Davoren who wanted to bring an organic, non-toxic experience to the local nail spa industry.
The second you set foot inside Erva you’ll be enveloped in serenity. A relaxed, nurturing vibe emanates from the upstairs salon, which is decked out in natural earthy colours, you’ll never want to leave.
Textured walls offset by plush furniture and gold accents are the work of architect Thais Pupio and interior designer Uscha Banning, who have come together to bring Leila’s vision to life and make some absolute magic.
Leila’s idea behind creating the space was to make people feel truly special and as soon as you sink into one of the softest of armchairs and gaze around at the draped greenery and perfectly curated interior, you will indeed feel that Erva is not your average nail spa.
All products are organic and non-toxic with the creams and soaks made in-house. Everything is vegan, which of course means also not tested on animals.
Erva is a Portugese word for herb, an essential part of the spas approach to nurturing. The benefits of herbs, essential oils, salts and ointments are used in everything from creams and exfoliants to masks.
If we had to choose just one service, it would be the Divine – a self love ritual designed to heal and restore the health of your hands or feet including a soak, nail shaping and buffing, cuticle care, exfoliant, a mask, massage and polish to finish.
It’s actual heaven and self-care at its absolute finest.
So if a little bit of self care is on the agenda (and it absolutely should be), there’s no better place to treat yourself than this Burleigh beauty.
You deserve it, trust us.
LOCATION: 4/3 Park Ave, Burleigh Heads
HOURS: From 10am Tuesday to Sunday
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
We’re sure you’ve noticed (there are gorg murals everywhere now), but Gold Coast’s local art scene is popping off! From galleries to murals, exhibitions to workshops, our talented local artists are making themselves known here and on the national scene.
So, if you’re looking for a unique way to spend a day on the Gold Coast, why not appreciate all the exceptional art on offer?
Here’s a list of local galleries to help you get your art fix (listed north to south).
Gallery One is a leading contemporary fine art gallery representing collectible and established multi-award-winning artists from around Australia. In other words, expect to be impressed. From Ken Done to Goompi Ugerabah, the featured artists are expansive in their material use and host a wide breadth of colour, making for a captivating and curious visit.
Where: Shop 16.02 The Brickworks 107 Ferry Road, Southport
Anthea Polson established her namesake gallery after working for over thirteen years at one of Australia’s largest commercial art galleries. Anthea Polson Art specialises in contemporary Australian art and sculpture, representing Australia’s top emerging artists and exhibiting major investment works. Alongside her team, Anthea has helped promote emerging Australian contemporary artists, host a regular exhibition programme, and provide clients a superior art consultancy service since 2009.
Where: 29 Tedder Avenue, Main Beach
It’s all in the name, really. The Gold Coast’s Home of The Arts. HOTA is the city’s premier cultural precinct and has been showcasing visual and performing arts since 1986. This place is phenomenal, with an impressive array of exhibitions, cinema, dining/bar facilities, and a non-stop schedule of live shows, activities, and workshops. Whether you’re keen to see the works of award-winning artists, sculptures and photographers, see a live theatre show or take a live drawing workshop, you can find it here.
Where: 135 Bundall Road, Surfers Paradise
Located next to Broadbeach SLSC, the Royal Queensland Art Society is a place to view, buy and create art. They offer classes from life drawing to acrylic and sketching and host an ‘Art in The Park’ on the second Sunday of each month, where artists can sell their work at the park. It’s free admission, and they’ve even got an Art Cafe to grab refreshments from after a busy day of getting creative.
Where: 25 Broadbeach Boulevard, Broadbeach
This stunning Mermaid Beach gallery showcases bold, eye-catching art- all for purchase- by over ninety local and international artists. Curated by Terri Lew, the space is divided into six interconnected exhibition spaces featuring a diverse range of styles and genres, from realism and abstract to pop art and pop surrealism and more!
Where: 19 Karen Avenue, Mermaid Beach
Standing for ‘Art Lives on Walls’, ALOW is a brand new artist-driven gallery space in Mermaid Beach, created as a sanctuary for creative freedom, experimentation, and storytelling. Founded by the owners of We Sell Prints, Jarrad and Sarah Miller, ALOW is about reestablishing our connection with art off-screen; physically standing in front of a piece and feeling it. They also host bold exhibitions, hands-on workshops and artist-led events.
Where: 2/53-55 Cronulla Ave, Mermaid Beach
Did you know world-renowned landscape photographs are available for us to marvel at on the Gold Coast?! We’re talking about Wayne Sorrenson’s works and his gallery in Miami! From wildlife to national and international landscapes, his gallery features a vast selection of framed artwork to purchase, as well as a range of gift ideas, including acrylic blocks, greeting cards and calendars, to name a few. It’s all absolutely breathtaking.
Where: 40 Lemana Lane, Miami
Meet the freshest artist-run gallery on the Gold Coast (and perhaps beyond). It’s called Mint Art House, and it’s home to 12 talented emerging artists ranging from painters to sculptors, muralists to ceramicists, located in Burleigh Heads. Like all good art studios, Mint is a collaborative space that frequently hosts exhibitions, artist talks and workshops including poetry nights and life drawing.
Where: 5/87 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads
The HIVE is another artist-run studio (we love to see it), a fine art gallery and co-operative art space. They support local and international, emerging and established artists of all skill levels, as an effort to encourage inclusivity and creativity. Within the gallery, you’ll find an array of stunning works available for purchase, or if you’d like to stay awhile, why not grab a ticket to one of their workshops! Life drawing, anyone? There’s also a regular meetup and music night if you want to meet some like-minded folks.
Where: Unit 23/5 Coghill Dr, Currumbin Waters
Just the sight of this gorgeous refurbished warehouse (a piece of art itself) in the heart of Currumbin Waters is enough to ignite one’s inspiration. Dust Temple is a creative space (also an art gallery, cafe and bar) where likeminds can meet and share their love of the arts. They host live music, performances, poetry, exhibitions and workshops.
Where: 54 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
Maverick is a one-of-a-kind space where art, hair and health come together! The small gallery space allows local artists to showcase their work (some available for purchase) and connect, hosting community art exhibitions and events throughout the year. There are also beautiful gifts for purchase from both near and far.
Where: First Floor, 1/17 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
Home to the Margaret Olley Art Centre (MOAC), the Gallery Shop and Apex Dining, the architecturally award-winning Tweed Regional Gallery makes for a perfect day across the border. Start with breakfast at Apex, enjoyed with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Tweed River before heading to the MOAC; a gallery celebrating the life of Australia’s most celebrated still life and interior painter. Don’t forget to pick up a keepsake at the Gallery Shop on your way out!
Where: 2 Mistral Rd, South Murwillumbah
Words by Chelsea Ipsen
