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The Biscuit Factory, a former Victorian biscuit warehouse turned independent art gallery in Newcastle, is not just a place to admire art—it’s a creative hub where artists and the community come together. Dedicated to making space for workshops, exhibitions, and various art forms from across the UK, the gallery is considered a haven for creative discovery and exploration.
In this Event Spotlight, we sat down with The Biscuit Factory team to uncover the essence behind their vibrant events and how they are reshaping Newcastle’s cultural landscape.
The Biscuit Factory’s ethos is rooted in showcasing local and national artists while providing emerging talents a stage to thrive. Founded in 2002, with over 250 works on display, the gallery spans various artistic mediums, from original paintings, handmade prints, glass, ceramics, textiles, photography, furniture, design-led homewares, and jewellery.
A dedicated team curates Their exhibitions meticulously, ensuring that each visitor experiences something fresh with every visit.
“We aim to support emergent makers and contribute to the region’s cultural landscape,” they share, emphasising their commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative minds. The gallery attracts over 50,000 visitors annually, creating a genuine marketplace for artists.
Behind The Biscuit Factory’s gallery walls, a dynamic team is constantly at work. The energy is palpable, whether it’s selecting new collections, welcoming artists with freshly delivered pieces, or preparing for an upcoming exhibition.
The curatorial team, including Maike (jewellery), Sam W. (3D work like sculpture and furniture), and Sam K. (2D work like paintings and prints), bring a keen eye to the gallery’s displays, ensuring year-round artistic programming.
“There’s always art moving around,” they reveal. “Our team is actively involved in planning and speaking to artists and clients to bring the best work to our gallery.”
This lively environment creates the perfect blend of artistic passion and careful curation.
Exhibition openings at The Biscuit Factory are carefully designed to suit the artist’s style, ensuring the best possible engagement with the audience.
The gallery’s events are a mix of formal Q&A, intimate artist introductions, or live demonstrations, all of which aim to highlight the artist’s work in ways that resonate with newcomers and seasoned art lovers alike.
“We plan well in advance, ensuring that we capture the right audience and use tools like Eventcube to help manage our events,” they note. To the people of The Biscuit Factory, preparation is essential in creating memorable art experiences.
A big part of The Biscuit Factory’s mission is to make art accessible, not only through exhibitions but also through workshops led by artists themselves. Visitors can dive into the creative process firsthand, whether it’s traditional techniques or contemporary methods.
“Our creative workshops are a great way for people to try something new, whether it’s a serious art class or an entry-level session for beginners,” they explain. The gallery has also run free taster sessions, allowing the community to experience art in an approachable way.
The Biscuit Factory’s role in the community extends beyond exhibitions. Their public art projects, like the installation created for their 20th anniversary, invite locals to contribute, making them part of the gallery’s fabric—literally.
“We had the ceramic forms inspired by the history of our gallery and local area,” they share. “Now, it’s a permanent installation, and visitors still come to find the pieces they created.”
Through projects like this, The Biscuit Factory brings people closer to art, embedding it within the community’s identity.
In 2024, The Biscuit Factory will open a new event space, The Garden Room, inspired by Victorian winter gardens and glasshouses. This addition marks another step in their evolution, combining historical charm with contemporary creativity.
With a focus on expanding its events and offering more opportunities for artistic engagement, The Biscuit Factory continues to push the boundaries of what an art gallery can be.
Join The Biscuit Factory’s online community on Instagram & Facebook.
Check out their art collection on their website.
Secure event tickets on their Eventcube store.
