The Art Factory
The Art Factory in Wagga Wagga is part of the national Supported Studio Network that provides a framework for visual arts studios that support the professional development of artists with disability.
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The studio is a nurturing environment where each artist can be themselves and have autonomy.
The Art Factory provides artists with guidance, mentoring, networks and career paths to assist in further establishing and maintaining a contemporary arts practice. The studio is non-directive and artists are encouraged to develop their own visual language using a range of mediums and styles.
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The Art Factory is always working on ways to improve the impact of making art on the environment. We adhere to the framework of Verto's Environmental Sustainability Statement.
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About The Art Factory
The Team
Leanne Dyer | Program Coordinator
Leanne has extensive experience in the not-for-profit sector, focusing on inclusion and community engagement. As Community Programs Coordinator at Riverina Community College, she works with diverse groups to develop creative and participatory programs. A passionate advocate for equity, Leanne is dedicated to empowering individuals and fostering belonging through collaboration, learning, and the arts across the Riverina region.
Jackie Thiele | Arts Worker
Jackie has extensive experience supporting individuals with diverse needs, using her creative skills to foster inclusion and self-expression. With compassion and deep understanding of the disability sector, Jackie creates accessible, empowering art experiences that build confidence, connection, and a strong sense of achievement.
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Monday, Friday
Nicole Hawken | Co-Studio Supervisor
Nicole is a multidisciplinary artist with a strong background in the disability sector. A passionate maker skilled in painting, printmaking, and assemblage, she brings creativity and care to her work. Nicole supports artists to explore new ideas, experiment with materials, and develop their unique visual language, helping them reach their full artistic potential.
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
Angela Champ | Arts Worker
Angela creates aesthetic ceramic pieces and functional vessels from her home studio, thoughtfully produced in small batches. Inspired by mid-century fired arts, she values form, texture, and colour. Using Australian-made clay, Angela wheel throws and hand-finishes each unique piece. Alongside her own practice, she works with artists to develop their visual language and creative confidence.
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Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday
Linda Elliott | Co-Studio Supervisor
Linda lives and creates on Wiradjuri Country, exploring basketry with raffia, fabric, and fibres that blend traditional and contemporary techniques. Also experimenting with paper-based works including printmaking. With extensive experience in arts and education, Linda brings a thoughtful, inclusive approach to her practice, fostering creativity and artistic growth within the studio community.​
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Monday, Wednesday, Friday​​
Tegan Bailey | Arts Worker
Tegan crafts evocative mixed-media paintings that resonate deeply. As an Autistic artist, her work weaves layered narratives rich in emotion and personal meaning. Using diverse materials and textures, she creates deeply expressive pieces that invite connection and reflection. Tegan is currently undertaking a Master’s in Art Therapy, expanding her creative and therapeutic practice.
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Tuesday, Thursday, Friday
Riverina Community College
In 2016, Riverina Community College received a grant from Arts NSW to found and run The Art Factory for artists with disability. The Art Factory program, conducted in the College’s Art Studio, is a Supported Studio making use of the state of the art facilities at the College.
Riverina Community College (RCC) is a Registered Training Organisation. The College is located in Wagga Wagga and delivers a variety of nationally recognised training including skill sets and full qualifications from Certificate II to Diploma level.
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The RCC operates a variety of programs designed to enhance the lives of the disadvantaged and minority groups within the greater Riverina region. Most are funded through various commonwealth or state government departments and centre around arts for those with a disability, respite for carers, inclusive community education, visiting the elderly in their home or aged care facility and youth at risk.
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