The embodiment of charm, and an intrinsic part  of the scenery within the picturesque coastal town of Queenscliff, Seaview Gallery is a nurturing  space that you will simply get lost in. 

Recently, we sat down with owner Colleen Kenwood,  to chat about the gallery’s history, and to find out what  makes it such a special and well-loved feature of the  town, and to the art community as a whole.  The gallery was originally opened in the late 1980’s by  Marion Bailey. Colleen began working for her part time  some years later, as a welcome change from her job   within the banking industry. Much to her delight, she fell   in love with it and made plans to stay in the role long term. Marion sold the gallery in the early 2000’s and  

Colleen stayed on in her role until 2014 when she had  the opportuniy to purchase the business and become sole owner.  It was an opportunity she grasped with both hands, with a love and passion for the work and for the art had become such an important part of her life. Living  so close to the gallery, she has created a wonderful  lifestyle for herself that benefits her business, her clients and her artists immensely.  

Set within a historic building from the 1870’s, the gallery itself is divided into seven separate rooms, all  designed and laid out to perfection, displaying the  artwork beautifully, creating an inspiring visual for her  customers. When you step inside, you are met with an air of charm,  within a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The themes  in each room have been meticulously designed and tie in perfectly with the locally grown floral arrangements that Colleen creates, bringing even more ambiance to  each space.  

Each room is changed on a monthly basis, with new  exhibitions on display and new artwork to explore and  discover.  While many of the artists Colleen works with are well  established creatives, she also loves to embrace the  work of new and emerging Australian artists. Often approached by artists to exhibit within the gallery, she  makes her selections based on what will align with the  space, what best supports the artist, and what she  knows her clientele are looking for.  

There is an eclectic mixture of styles that you notice as you wander from room to room, with art that is contemporary, traditional and figurative as well as work that features gorgeous landscapes. Along with paintings, the art also extends to other pieces,  including glass art, jewellery, sculptures and ceramics,  giving you a wide variety and scope of works to peruse  and enjoy. 

Working with over 40 artists, some of the painters that  regularly feature at Seaview Gallery are Kate Smith,  Drew Gregory, Sara Paxton, Thom Kadera, Lucila  Zentner, Michelle Mischkulnig, Philip Adams, Di King,  Alan Morgan, Chris Kandis, Paul Margocsy, Carol  Foster , Vida Pearson, Paul Evans , Jacqueline Fowler,  Christine Robinson , Irene Majer and Linda Gallus.  

Colleen also works with, James McMurtrie, Robert  Wynne, Sean O’Donahue, Gillian Govan, Jenny  Whiteside, Ann-Maree Gentile, Laurie Close, Beryl Stott,  Kaye Clancy, Darylle Kelly and Lynn Wals.  

Colleen also offers a service to her local buyers, where  she brings her artworks into their homes and works  within their own space. Thereby creating a design and  flow that best suits the clients style and interior. It is an  aspect of her role she truly enjoys.  

Seaview Gallery is a space where art lovers are invited  to browse and wander discovering the many pieces  

being showcased. Colleen has worked incredibly hard  to create a gallery space, displaying a wide variety  of styles, catering to all tastes and budgets. Where  everyone can afford to purchase beautiful, unique  pieces, either as a gift, or for themselves, bringing the  beauty of art into their own home.  

Whether you are a seasoned collector, or just looking  to explore new places and ideas, Seaview Gallery is  a truly wonderful space that is an absolute must visit  destination. 

The gallery is open daily from 10.30am – 4.30pm  (closed Tuesdays & Wednesdays), and is located at  86 Hesse St, Queenscliff (the top end of Queenscliff’s  main street). 

For any enquiries, call Colleen on 03 5258 3645 or  0428 998 863 or visit www.seaviewgallery.com.au