The Artists Shed Queanbeyan

The History The Artists Shed is an evolving arts complex that facilitates the arts in all it's forms, born from the studios of Margaret Hadfield and Dennis Mortimer. The large industrial shed/unit, once housed a large photographic laboratory. The labyrinth of rooms and rustic feel of industry make this a very interesting art space. Margaret, moved into unit 2 in 1996. Margaret continued to develop her art practice and began teaching from her studio. The classes grew in popularity and expanded into the next unit 3(partially)and in 2002 Dennis Mortimer relocated from Sydney into the same unit. Dennis also tutored at the Shed. Dennis and Margaret became co-operative friends and along with patron/friend Mal Motum made part of the mezzanine level into an art gallery. Initially the idea for the gallery was just to show Dennis's work which was to return from a Sydney gallery.The gallery opened 11/11/2004 with a wonderful supportive crowd of art lovers and has had monthly exhibitions ever since. All the ideas for the Artists Shed were born under the trees with an evening 'beer o'clock'. The name of the Shed, the bogong moths as a logo were left overs from mural project and later the style and colours of 'Mondrian' seemed right as the face of the shed. Unit 4 became available and more studios constructed. Dennis's studio went into unit 4 to enlarge the gallery space. The lessons have increased in popularity and a 'swag' of artists now teach at the shed. Some art supplies were sold at the shed and a decision was made to expand that into a shop in the city centre. The shop opened 11/11/2008 and sells quality art supplies at below normal recommended retail prices. The Artists Shed has developed from pure passion of the arts. It doesn't make a bit of financial sense. The gallery provides a inexpensive opportunity for artists and Curators to exhibit, installations welcome. In days of big corporate businesses, it seems impossible to develop a business in the arts without support or sponsorship. The 'Shed' could not have developed as it has without the co-operation between Mal, Margaret and Dennis, great landlords, and some very good friends.