The Artists Shed

In 2004 the original Artists Shed was born within a large industrial building in the back blocks of Queanbeyan NSW. It was the working studios for Dennis Mortimer and Margaret Hadfield, as well as a unique gallery space. Art supplies and art classes were available and other artists joined the Artists Shed community. Mal Motum (the Colonel) proved a strong supporter of the ‘shed’. A new exhibition highlighted each month, from the infamous ‘Shed Nudes’ to a Japanese arts project supported by the Queanbeyan Council. Tim Keeble made an indelible mark on the fabric of the ‘shed’ by bringing talented musicians and bands to perform. The Artists Shed building at 14 Foster Street, was sold and Artists Shed Inc., became a non-profit organisation. Regretfully Tim died suddenly, and the arts/music community continue to mourn his loss.

A diminished interest by Australians in original artwork meant it was increasingly difficult for artists to profit from their creative talents and The Artists Shed dissolved. Dennis Mortimer continued to paint, and Margaret Hadfield set up her own gallery first in Curtin and then Phillip, aided by several major commissions. She, and historian and author, Dr Kathryn Spurling, intent on rescuing and upcycling older and neglected art, formed Artistic Vision Gallery.