Working with creators: what a feeling

The people who go to a community legal centre often don’t have any other avenue for legal advice. They just can’t afford it. So when you help them, you really make a difference.

Many are sophisticated creatively but just don’t understand their rights. Or how the law can protect them. Empowering them with that knowledge can be transformative.

And I certainly felt more empowered by helping them.

The Arts Law Centre had developed a ground breaking program working with Indigenous artists that really resonated with me. I did a lot of work directly with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island artists in remote communities. When I look back at my history, I think I had always been more aware of Indigenous culture and history than a lot of people. Not nearly as much as many – but more than a lot. Now I learned so much more.

Many things were coming together. I’ve always been interested in human rights and I’ve always loved the arts. The feeling of being able to really help creators and to work directly with so many naturally gifted and talented artists and see them empowered with the knowledge of their rights – that is a great feeling. I think it’s been the most important work I’ve ever done.

Now, with my own practice, I can continue working with Australia’s most creative communities and people. It brings me joy every day.

Contact me if you would like to know more about my work and how I might help you.