pARTcipate Art Jam at Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre
Are you an art enthusiast or simply wanting to learn from some of the best? Jodie Cameron explores what’s on offer at the Butter Factory Arts Centre…
The Cooroy Butter Factory Arts Centre is a hub for art lovers and makers of all skill levels with a full pottery studio equipped with wheels, kilns and plenty of workspaces for inspiration and collaboration as well as an ever-evolving calendar of courses and workshops. The historic, repurposed building hosts regular exhibitions celebrating local creatives and providing community connection – plus the Artisan Store is my go-to for discovering handcrafted and heartfelt gifts, fashion, homewares and more – all created by local artists and artisans.
Which is why I’m excited about the upcoming program to help established and emerging artists build their practice. From 4 August to 13 September, the Butter Factory Arts Centre is launching pARTcipate, a six-week program that will transform the gallery into a purposeful place of education and immersion. Some artists are born with palettes and purpose, others find their creative spark later in life, often tucked between the demands of a busy career or hobby. For those wanting to improve their creative practice and learn some business basics about what it takes to become a practicing artist, pARTicipate will include an inaugural Winter Art School as well as welcome back Art Jam where artists can take up residency in an environment bursting with creative support.
There’s something thrilling about being part of the foundational year of an arts program so whether you’re a total novice or a seasoned creator, the Winter Art School is sure to inspire.
Unlike the one-day masterclasses, this is a true six-week art school where participants can deep-dive into workshops during the week along with two-day weekend sessions.
Factory Coordinator Kevin Wilson said the Winter Art School offered the chance for artists to go beyond the basics and learn professional techniques from some major Australian artists.
“The program is exceptionally strong,” he says. “We have incredibly talented artists visiting from across the region and country, to share their expertise.”
Join local animal artist Fiona Groom for a two-day workshop learning practical techniques to capture the personality of your favourite furry friend. Black Mountain artist Colin Pennock will share his secrets on abstract landscape and textural application, while Brisbane’s Adele Outteridge brings her multidisciplinary expertise in book arts and printmaking. New South Wales artist Laith McGregor, who recently exhibited in Los Angeles will lead the Drawing Room workshop, focusing on creative momentum and studio development.
“My workshop helps generate alternate and inspiring approaches to art and varied practices, by using the subconscious as a tool for creative potential and a constructive starting point for art making,” Laith says.
The beauty of pARTicipate is its flexibility; choose a single week, evening or weekend or mix and match throughout the program. Untutored life drawing, sessions on art and mental health, and the practical side like creative commerce, such as marketing for artists also keeps the momentum flowing.
Supported by Bendigo Bank, the initiative ensures world-class tuition remains accessible here in Noosa. The popular Art Jam program also returns, running for six weeks alongside the Winter Art School. In a shift for 2026, the program moves into the front three galleries where artists will work in-situ from studio stalls. It offers a rare opportunity for visitors to take a look at the creative process and to engage with the creators behind the work.
Applications to hire one of the studio spaces are now open – but be quick as applications close 31 July with only ten places available.
If you’ve been thinking about rolling up your sleeves and trying something new, get amongst the hinterland energy this winter. Sign up for a course, drop in for a mosey and see some works in progress; you might just find the inspiration to join a class next year. If you aren’t ready to pick up a brush yourself, the immersive atmosphere, exhibitions and Artisan Store with curated jewellery, woodwork, and ceramics, justifies a visit.
PARTICIPATE IN ART
pARTicipate – 4 August to 13 September
WINTER ART SCHOOL
Details for this inaugural program are now available online with bookings open.
ART JAM APPLICATIONS
Book a studio stall to work in-situ for
1 to 6 weeks. Weekly rates $100
($90 for members) plus 20% commission on sales. Applications close 31 July .
WHILE YOU’RE THERE!
Wander through the Creamery and Butter Box rooms to see the latest curated collections from regional and touring artists and visit the Artisan Store for locally-crafted gifts and more. Visit www.cooroybutterfactory.com.au
