Everyday People - Ashleigh Manley - Dedicated to his craft

Ashleigh Manley is an Australian master watercolourist and has held solo exhibitions globally. He has also called Hervey Bay home for the last decade. 

In May 2013, Ashleigh and his wife Kate visited Hervey Bay and went for a stroll along the Urangan Jetty, mesmerized by the vibrant hues of the sunset. On their way back to their lodgings, they passed by an empty shop with a phone number in the window. Overlooking the same picturesque jetty they had just walked along. Ashleigh decided to dial the number, and within a remarkably short span of three days, they had packed their belongings and relocated to Hervey Bay. It was an instant and profound connection—a love at first sight that led to the birth of Ashleigh Manley Studio Gallery. 

Ashleigh was born in Melbourne but grew up in the Eastern Suburbs of Adelaide and describes his childhood as wonderful. His dad was a painter but sadly passed away when Ashleigh was about eleven years of age. However, with the unwavering love of his mother and grandparents, Ashleigh found his way through the difficult times. Recalling his early influences, Ashleigh fondly remembers watching his mother paint, as she was not only an artist but also an avid collector. Witnessing her artistic endeavours ignited his own passion for painting. 

When Ashleigh turned eighteen, he became a Christian. Seeking guidance for his life's purpose, he asked God for direction, and painting emerged as the resolute answer. Since then, Ashleigh has remained dedicated to his craft, continuously exploring his thoughts, ideas, and diverse means of artistic expression. For him, painting is an avenue of introspection and a profound exploration of one's inner world. 

Ashleigh said, “It’s just one of those things, sometimes the door opens, and you just step in. I have always loved painting because you are exploring your thoughts and ideas and different ways of expressing them.”  

Forty years ago, Ashleigh coincidentally owned an art gallery in Adelaide adjacent to a clothing store owned by a woman named Kate, who specialised in manufacturing formal wear. Destiny played its hand, and Ashleigh and Kate crossed paths, eventually leading to their union in marriage. They later relocated to the Gold Coast, where they resided for twenty years. During this period, Ashleigh served as the artist in residence at Sanctuary Cove, creating captivating paintings of various golf courses. The challenge of capturing the intricacies of composition and design in these settings fueled his artistic spirit. 

Now all these years later, their studio gallery is firmly established along the Esplanade in Urangan. The shop combines Kate’s love of fashion and Ashleigh’s love of art. While Kate doesn’t manufacture anymore, she imports clothing from Italy and has a beautiful collection.   

After fifty-three years of painting, Ashleigh has an extensive inventory of artwork.  

At the age of seventy-three, he reflects on life’s challenges, particularly the passing of his younger brother last year. The sudden loss was deeply distressing as he was fit and healthy. In the face of such tragedies, Ashleigh’s faith becomes a pillar of strength, fostering personal growth and resilience.  

Ashleigh takes great satisfaction in contributing to his community. Every fortnight, he engages in an artistic endeavour at Bayside Transformations. Where he encourages others in their visual exploration, offering support on their creative journeys. Additionally, he cherishes the moments spent with his daughter, son-in-law and two grandchildren who reside in Adelaide, frequently returning to visit them.  

Living in Hervey Bay is regarded by Ashleigh as an immense blessing. He holds a profound appreciation for the incredible surroundings this place offers, truly recognising its awe-inspiring beauty.

By Kim Parnell 

What’s On Fraser Coast