In the Picture
Text by John Lampard
It wasn’t until Sydney designer Brad Eastman started searching for Australian artists and photographers, that he discovered just how many there were. And nor did he realise how much talent, and creativity, was on offer so close to home either.
For him that said a lot about how limited the opportunities are in Australia for emerging creatives to make themselves visible, so he decided to do something about it.
In February 2006 he launched We Are The Image Makers, or WATIM, an on-line publication that features interviews with Australian designers, illustrators, photographers, and artists, and also showcases their work.
“I really only knew of like a handful of really good Aussie artists and photographers before I started WATIM. Once I invited anyone in Australia to submit their work for the project did I realise the amount of high level talent our land down under has,” he says.
Brad says he first thought of creating WATIM in mid 2005, and rather than taking on extra freelance work, decided to invest his spare time in planning a project that would not only get him in touch with other artists and designers, but also allow him to promote his own work.
“I thought I’d spend money and time to create something of my own which in turn would only lead to better opportunities and meeting other like-minded Aussies. Also, I felt that this would be an ideal way for myself to network, and get my own work and name out there at the same time,” he says.
Collaborating with Sydney photographer Sarah Holmes, who also helped develop the WATIM concept, Brad is constantly involved with the project, and estimates he spends the equivalent of a full day each week working on it.
“I’m always working on WATIM. The main core of the work is writing emails, everyday I’m replying to emails, sorting out content for the interviews and gallery sections. As well as trying to promote the site on-line at the same time.”
Brad has plans to eventually take the WATIM idea beyond its on-line presence, including publishing a book made up of artwork and photography that has been featured on the website so far. He intends to make this an annual event, that would also coincide with an exhibition, where the book would be launched.
“WATIM is most definitely not in it for financial gain, but to simply play a positive influential role in the growing Australian creative scene. Aussie artists are really starting to make their mark on the global scene, so it’s the perfect time to really promote these artists as best we can,” he says.
Indeed profit is the last thing on Brad’s mind, despite the amount of time and energy he puts into the project. Ultimately it is all about the artists and their work.
“I just think about meeting all the sickingly talented Australian artists out there! It is also quite satisfying knowing that by doing something simple, like including someone’s art or photo, or adding a link to someone’s site, or interviewing them, you are really helping them out,” he says.
And the occasional compliment is always appreciated as well, says Brad.
“It does make you feel good when you get positive feedback. And don’t forget karma, I’m doing favours for so many people, so life is great.”
Related links and references
- We Are The Image Makers
- Sarah Holmes Photography
- esnce (Brad’s portfolio)
