At a time when everyone is conscious of climate change and protecting the natural environment, a bold new exhibition, HIVE, launches at The Bridgy Gallery in Bridgwater, bringing together over 20 local artists to explore themes of nature, landscape, ecology, and community. The exhibition is completely free to attend, and runs until 17th October, as part of the exciting programme of events supported by the Bridgwater Town Deal throughout 2025.
Curated by local artist and creative producer Sami Green, HIVE features a vibrant mix of painting, sculpture, installation and mixed media, with work from artists including:
- Holly Foskett – an artist-writer-gardener and sculptor whose work explores kinship with the natural world, sacred ritualism, and seasonal folklore.
- Rachel Watkins – a 3D textile artist, deeply inspired by the natural beauty of the Quantock Hills, working with natural fibres.
- Ken Church – A Bridgwater, Chandos Society artist, with a passion for capturing local landscapes and moments in time in a variety of mediums, including Oil, Acrylic, Watercolour, Pen and Glass mosaic.
- Plus a new wave of young and emerging talent from across Somerset
To celebrate the launch, the public are invited to the HIVE Open Exhibition Celebration on Wednesday 18th September 7–9pm for an evening of art, dance, conversation and Somerset fayre, hosted in the gallery. It’s a chance to meet the artists, connect with others, and enjoy the exhibition in style.
Sami Green said:
“At its heart, HIVE is about connection – to the natural world, to each other, and to the creative spirit that lives in all of us. It’s about seeing what we can make, together. This exhibition is a celebration of that spirit, and we’d love the community to come and be part of it.”
Jeremy James from the Bridgwater Town Deal, added:
“We’re proud to support projects like HIVE that champion local creativity and make arts and culture accessible to all. It’s exactly the kind of event that reflects the ambition and community spirit of Bridgwater’s future.”
The much-loved ‘Swarm’ textile bee installation, created by local community members, will return as part of the exhibition, along with additional bee-making workshops on 27th September and 4th October.
HIVE runs until 17th October at The Bridgy Gallery.
Entry is FREE and is open to all.
For more details, visit www.bridgwaterhereandnow.com/events or follow Bridgwater Here and Now on Facebook and Instagram
