Our creative community
The Northern Beaches is home to a higher than average percentage of artists, creatives and cultural workers.
Our local creative community generated $1,16m in economic output and $790 million in value added for the Northern Beaches Council area in 2018/19 (4.2% of Greater Sydney's total Cultural and Creative Sector value). Our artists and creatives are the drivers of a vibrant local economy.
The Northern Beaches creative sector has the 2nd highest number of jobs in NSW for specialised design and photographic services, book and magazine publishing and arts education and the 3rd highest number of jobs in NSW for architects, artists, musicians, writers and performers. Our creative economy supported 7,050 local jobs (6.5% of total jobs in the LGA) and provided employment for 13,207 residents (8.5% of all employed residents) in 2018/19.
Find out more about our local Northern Beaches cultural and creative sector.
Creative of the Month
Each month we showcase some of the talented people who live and work in our community, exploring the diversity of artistic and creative practices on the Northern Beaches. Find more of our creative community on Instagram through the hashtag #creativenorthernbeaches. With 500+ posts, join in and use the hashtag to share your own local creative practice.
July 2020: Writer/Author - Zena Shapter
Local author, writing mentor and small business owner Zena Shapter, has been instrumental in developing many successful community writing projects on the Northern Beaches, including the Art & Words Project in partnership with MAG&M, and ‘Write Your Story' Youth Project and founding the Northern Beaches Writers’ Group. A passionate storyteller, Zena's own award-winning writing crosses both age and genre. "Staying connected with other local artists and writers, extends the joy of creativity and the professional development of the craft".
Find Zena online or on social media as @ZenaShapter
June 2020: Designer/Maker - Toby Eagle
Local metalsmith and jeweller, Toby Eagle built an artists’ hub in Brookvale called 'The Vale Studios' in 2015, where she shares the space with other local artists. Toby’s practice focuses on traditional techniques, creating one-of–a-kind pieces with an eco-conscious twist, using reclaimed sterling silver and gold. “When I built the Vale Studios it was with the intention of surrounding myself with other talented creatives and to establish a supportive culture, collaborating on projects.”
Find Toby online or on social media as @tobyeaglejewellery
Like to be a Creative of the Month?
If you would like to apply to be or nominate a Creative of the Month, please email us at creative@northernbeaches.nsw.gov.au
Are we friends yet?
Keep in touch with arts and creativity on the Northern Beaches with Creative News.
