After her unfortunate passing in 2016 at the age of 88, her last work came in the form of a surprising will inclusion, leaving her home to neighbours Julian Bovis and Nigel Durkan. Both artists in their own right, the building was theirs as long as they used it to create a contemporary art gallery to benefit Saddleworth and the wider Greater Manchester community.

Joan’s passion for art and creating things to bewilder is eminent with her influence throughout the space. She’s in the décor, the mood and just about everything else. And it’s only fitting that the inaugural exhibition was dedicated to Joan herself. With pieces from her, about her by students of Oldham College, and more depicting the place she and us call home.

Every month since has seen this space for culture, art and expression become a hub for a new topic, message or artist. Most recently, Anthony Marn has explored how art can be pivotal the grieving process, and this kind of support is just one of many reasons why it’s become a community favourite since day one.

With every visitor inspired to create something beautiful of their own, you also get the help you need to access that through workshops. Hosted and taught by professionals with invaluable experience in their field, The Weavers Factory encourages engagement, not just observation.