Collaboration is a fundamental part of our design process. A meeting of minds ignites creativity, and oftentimes forms long-lasting friendships between our team and the incredible stylists, artists, photographers and curators we’re fortunate enough to work with.
This collaboration is unique in that we are yet to meet Chris Nixon, the artist we have commissioned to paint a large-scale mural in his signature bright colours at Beecroft Road Childcare Centre. We “met” Chris through Chulo Creative, a team of two Sydney-based agents who represent a wide range of Australian artists with a diverse and impressive portfolio. The Chulo duo has been a dream to work with, coordinating our collaboration with Chris with ease and grace.
We’re beyond excited to both finally meet Chris, and show the finished mural as the childcare centre reaches its final stages. In the meantime, we chat with the brains behind the art about finding balance, inspiration, and the magic in collaboration.
WHICH THREE WORDS BEST DESCRIBE YOU?
Positive, creative, curious.
WHAT DID YOU WANT TO BE GROWING UP?
I loved the outdoors and animals so I wanted to be a park ranger, then that shifted to a pilot, pro basketball player, pro surfer then artist – and that was the only one that stuck. I still love all of the above though.
WHAT DID YOU DO TO EARN YOUR FIRST PAY PACKET?
I’ve had a tonne of jobs to supplement my creative pursuits – Fishmonger, DJ and MC, Adventure Tour Guide – all to make it happen for me to do what I love today. They all have influenced my work as an artist though and have helped me along the way.
WHAT’S THE BEST LIFE LESSON YOU HAVE LEARNT ALONG THE WAY?
Stay curious, be kind and get the balance right. I’m constantly working to get the right balance between family, my active lifestyle and work, looking to collaborate and grow as an artist and human. I love people and learning wherever I can from each experience to push myself and look for opportunities that interest me.
WHAT’S YOUR PROUDEST ACHIEVEMENT?
My little guy Ollie, who’s a wild man but so much fun and brings us so much joy. Professionally – probably my public artwork at the new Perth Stadium which was a landmark installation combining animated lighting, synchronised audio and a sculptural ceiling all getting to work with some really talented friends. I’ve got a few more coming up, which has been a really interesting pursuit for my work to collaborate and grow. My latest basketball court was a dream fulfilled too to paint on a huge scale and get to play on it with Ollie. That was special.
WHO INSPIRES YOU?
I’m most inspired by multi-disciplinary artists who explore creativity across multiple platforms, from chefs, architects, artists, film-makers, musicians. I really connect with a sense of curiosity and exploring a creative solution to a problem. A few people would be Thom Yorke, Spike Jonze, Zaha Hadid, Geoff McFetridge, David Chang, Malcolm Gladwell, Henri Matisse, Bowie . . . the list goes on. I love interviews and learning more about people’s lives and their unique path to get there.
What is your biggest vice?
Probably basketball. I spend too much time playing, listening, watching and getting amongst it.
Do you follow trends or are you a trendsetter?
I just try to stay authentic to my own interests and try not to be influenced too much by what is happening right in my own field. I think by looking to other fields and people working creatively across multiple platforms I can avoid that a little.
What dream do you still want to fulfill?
I’m working towards my first solo show so that’s a big one for me. Also, to live overseas for a bit.
What are you looking forward to most about working with AKD?
I really love reflecting the interior palette and integrating my artwork with the space to a custom site-specific installation. I connected with this style right away for the Beecroft Road Childcare Centre so it was easy to be inspired by AKD’s vision for the space.