indigo eli

Have you got a project idea and need a sounding board? … or something more?
Art happenings coming up … or on the go … that you need assistance with?
Perhaps I can help.

No task is too small*

*15min minimum booking

I value kindness, professionalism, and an ethical approach.

And love to support other artists and folk producing great art projects, big or (seemingly) small.

I can help you achieve your goals … while playing nicely (and with well-meaning mischief, if you’re that way inclined) in the creative field.

unique offerings … why I might be the right person:

• values based: more about my values here
• artist rights advocate: supporter of artist rights and fair conditions
• d/Deaf, disability, and illness aware: adaptable, and open to feedback
• LGBTIQA+ friendly
• thoughtful and empathetic: I genuinely give a sheet!*

*oh, and I’m a wordplayer – you’re welcome or I’m sorry; whichever is relevant

• broad creative interests and background: eg writing, poetry, performance, visual art, poetry film, circus, physical theatre, stilts and street performance, characters and costume, inflatables and installations, community and interactive art … accessible and innovative projects and ideas … concept, planning, design
• impact focussed: having started off in community arts and services, I know firsthand how art (and supportive connections) can have deep value and meaning … for artists, audiences, individuals and communities
• professional approach and industry aware: an evolving knowledge of best practice, funding models, peak bodies and advocacy orgs … I’ve been on one end or the other of many common art scenarios … I am interested in the business side of creative practice and regularly engage in research and professional development

skills include:

• creative problem solving and innovative ideas: useful in any field
• balanced perspectives: detail-orientated and big picture thinking
• consultancy: I have consulted on poetry (written, spoken, experimental, collections), on cabaret performances, audio books, writing projects, grant planning and proposals and on the everyday considerations of running an independent arts practice
• mentoring and support: being an artist can be challenging, happy to share what I know, help find industry info and advice, and workshop solutions that work for you
• concept building, projects and planning: fleshing out ideas, management, coordination, delivery
• writing support: on everything from emails to grant applications, poems and other creative pursuits
• arts admin
• general assistance/ arts work: helping hand assistance with your project; making, production, project delivery etc … a range of skills available … from sewing together stilt straps on a vintage sewing machine, to taking great written notes … if you’re not sure if I can do it, just ask
• project or event staff: a smiling face of welcome for your patrons, a person with problem-solving skills for your project, Deaf and Auslan-user friendly

humans have needs, so let me know…

I believe in artist needs, access needs, human needs … whatever you wish to call them. Relevant to any human, but particularly important for some. Genuinely happy to consider and adapt to what works best for all involved. Including me, yes, turns out I’m human too, who knew!

No need to use labels if that’s not your thing, or to disclose private information. I’m only interested in what we need to consider to make our working relationship kind and effective … whether there are diversity boxes you can tick, or not.

I have language skills in English and Auslan (diploma level) and can work directly with artists, organisers and participants across languages. I am not an interpreter (thanks for asking). I have also trained in audio description.

I am happy and able to work with Deaf people and Auslan-users with or without interpreters – depending what works best in the situation. If we’re unsure whether we need a terp or not, let’s have a chat in Auslan or English to work that out.

Some clarity on my place and position: I am hearing, I don’t represent or speak on behalf of d/Deaf folk. I love Auslan, sign poetry (omg!) … and most importantly, deeply value my connection with the Deaf community. I acknowledge the community’s rich languages, history and culture, and respect the need for self expression and Deaf-led approaches.

For those wanting to include Deaf artists, audiences, or run a Deaf-led project … great! I recommend consulting with and hiring awesome Deaf people – that’s not me. What I can do, is point out some amazing Deaf folk, be a Deaf-friendly/aware cog in the machine, aid communication, and point to helpful resources … like this.

A bit more background …

My qualifications include an Advanced Diploma of Arts (Professional Writing), physical theatre and circus training, and a Diploma of Auslan. I engage in professional development and stay industry-aware.

I have worked with mentors of my own, both official and unofficial. Some I continue to work with, and some of those don’t even know it … that’s how good sharing/mentoring/consulting works hey … we take the cues, and find how they fit for us.

I draw on a broad range of learned and lived-experience including as: a practicing independent writer, performer and artist, a trainer and workshop facilitator, project participant, audience member, arts organisation founder and director, competition judge, ad hoc home hairdresser, grant writer, planner and deliver-er, creative-thinker, shy or scared person in a confidence-mask, embodied and empowered creative being resonating, and as a supporter and advocate of artist rights and playing nice.

I am continually updating my skills and knowledge so I can adapt to the variety of art forms, audiences and evolving needs of me and my multi-form practice.

Keen to share these skills and knowings to help other artists, and people presenting opportunities to artists.