The 68-year-old, who had to wait two decades to complete a bachelor of fine arts at Charles Sturt University, will leave the city next month with a feeling of fulfilment.

In addition to receiving her degree- which she started in 1990- Marilyn became a popular and highly respected member of the Wagga Art Society.

"I did two years of the course in the early 1990s but I left Wagga and only became serious about art again when I returned four years ago," Marilyn said. "Wagga is such a great place to learn and it has so much to offer.

"It's known for sport but it could quite easily be for art or other pursuits." She can be seen on most days in her paint-smattered smock ? closely resembling an old dressing gown ? in the art society's studio on Small Street.

"Art has saved my life ... if I didn't have the studio and the group I wouldn't have anywhere to go," she said.

"It allows me to be productive by teaching and benefiting others.

"That's important to anybody."

Marilyn, who is preparing to move to Macleay Island off the Queensland coast, fulfilled another ambition this week when she drew a portrait of Wagga City councillor and prominent saddler Garry Hiscock.

"I have wanted to capture Garry's character for a long time," she said.

"He epitomises the Riverina and the rural outlook."

Councillor Hiscock's portrait has been drawn once previously by his wife Maureen, who is studying an art course at TAFE.