Creative Spotlight | Nicole Paton
Published on 25 August 2021
Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I am a photographer and filmmaker with a passion for creating connections and documenting the stories of families. I have always been a creative person. I enjoy sculpture, painting and creating with my hands. I am incredibly proud to be able to use my background in speech pathology to support families with children living with disabilities and additional needs through curated photography sessions. My goal as an artist is to create artwork that will be seen daily and treasured for many generations to come.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
My community is my muse. I strive to build deeper connections with my community to be able to share people’s stories and feelings through my photographs. I am inspired daily by the stories of mothers and fathers and their journey of parenthood.
How does your personal history, culture or experience inform your creative work?
Growing up, my sister, who is 18 months older than me, was in and out of hospital due to chronic illness. These years shaped my mind to look for the things that are different about people and to celebrate them. When it comes to photographing families, I take pride in exploring their culture and the diversity that comes with it. Understanding that the more I know about them the better I can serve them with artwork that speaks to who they truly are.
What creative project are you working on at the moment?
I am currently working on a project that focuses on families of children with disabilities and additional needs to show people the value, potential, and abilities in all children, not just those that are typically developing. I want to be able to help families tell their stories in a public space, which can be so powerful and therapeutic. The aim of this project is to change the language and attitudes of people and to bring awareness to the unspoken fears, joys and journeys of one in five Australian families who have a child who needs additional support. I am currently in the planning stages and would love to hear from any families who may want to be involved.
What’s your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
Due to the intimate nature of getting to know my clients before I photograph them, I am fortunate to develop lifelong friendships with my clients and for me that is the most rewarding thing! Second only to seeing my artwork displayed in their homes.
What’s the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
I think most artists will agree with me that the business side of working as an artist is the most challenging. If I could provide any advice to emerging artists and creatives it would be to outsource what you can so that you can focus on creating your vision.
Where can we find out more about your work and get in touch?
Website: nicolepatonphotography.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicolepatonphotography/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicolepatonphotography
Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/nicolepatonphotography