The exhibition, which opened at the gallery on July 27 focuses on the importance of the Manning River to the community, and explores the idea the river is a source of fertility in a constant state of renewal and destruction.

Kate is residing at the gallery, located in Macquarie Street, Taree, from July 31 to August 3 and will continue to work with the idea of river effigies and symbols.

"I envisage working in the environment doing plein air sketches of the Manning River then come back to the gallery to create small wall sculptural pieces from the found materials I gather," she said.

For this exhibition, Kate undertook several field research trips to get to know the local area and its history and she'd love to incorporate some personal responses and recollections from locals, about our beautiful river system and how it has impacted different people's lives.

"Kate has a jam-packed schedule while she's with us as artist in residence and it's a great opportunity for people of all ages to meet, interact and learn from her," said gallery director, Rachel Piercy.

Kate will be the guest artist for Tots Tours on Friday, August 2, an exciting and fun art engagement for children under five, with their parents or carers.

She will also share her expertise to create a river totem in a special Art Central workshop on Saturday August 3. This workshop is for both children and adults and bookings can be made at https://artcentral_katedorrough.eventbrite.com.au

For more information about Kate Dorrough artmaking sessions, call the gallery on 6592 5455. Manning Regional Art Gallery is open Wednesday to Saturday 10am to 4pm and Sunday 1pm to 4pm.

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