by Robbi James

At Creative Plus Business, our advisors and mentors are industry-leading experts dedicated to helping creative professionals and their businesses thrive. They bring a wealth of experience, deep industry knowledge, and a passion for supporting artists and creative entrepreneurs. 

One such expert is Andrew Gray, a creative industries specialist with decades of experience in the cultural and arts sector.

Based in New South Wales, Andrew has held executive roles in not-for-profit arts organisations and senior management positions with national cultural institutions including South East Arts, the Australian War Memorial and National Film and Sound Archive. Most recently, Andrew and business partner Lindy Hume established a new arts company – Crimson Rosella Creative Adventures – to be an inspiring and progressive voice in regional creative practice.

Andrew’s work spans multiple arts sectors, in particular the performing and visual arts, museums and heritage, the screen industry, and cultural tourism. He is skilled in strategic leadership, project management, grant funding and financial procedures. He has a proven track record in supporting and advocating for arts and cultural development, particularly in regional NSW.

His focus is on assisting regionally-based artists and arts organisations as they navigate the complexities of the creative business landscape.

Passion for Sustainable Creative Careers

“I am passionate about helping artists earn income from their creative work and build sustainable careers. The ability to turn artistic passion into a viable livelihood is incredibly rewarding, and I strive to empower creatives to achieve this goal.”

In his role as a mentor and advisor, what he enjoys most is being able to meet a diverse range of creatives from both metropolitan and regional areas, and is consistently inspired by their talent and tenacity. “Every artist and creative professional brings a unique vision, and helping them turn that vision into a thriving business is highly fulfilling.

His Approach to Clients

He helps his clients to quickly identify and understand key issues and encourages them to apply creative problem-solving experience to those challenges. He focuses on being attentive and empathetic, encouraging critical thinking to help creatives navigate their journey successfully.

“My approach has always been to understand their creative aspirations, while recognising the realities of the work and personal environment they operate in.” 

A Notable Success Story

A standout project in Andrew’s mentoring work was with Kiln’it Experimental Ceramics. There, he played a key role in helping them to develop a strategic plan and secure funding for projects that ultimately supported numerous visual artists in their career development and creative network. His ability to guide organisations through strategic planning and funding opportunities has had a lasting impact on many more artists and arts organisations.

Trends and Challenges in the Creative Industries

“The post-COVID world continues to evolve, and previous business models are often no longer relevant. The market for creative products and services has changed significantly, and technological advancements have made it more challenging to identify and secure financial opportunities”.

Andrew also recognises that artificial intelligence is becoming a significant factor in the industry. As AI continues to develop, adapt, and be adopted, creatives are increasingly aware of their need to understand its potential impact, as well as harness the opportunities it can provide.

“While there is growing recognition of the significance of creative industries at both government and industry levels, working in the sector remains challenging for individuals”. Andrew believes that creatives need to stay adaptable, embrace new technologies, and refine their skills to thrive in this ever-changing landscape.

Advice for Aspiring Creative Entrepreneurs

Andrew’s key advice for creative entrepreneurs is to continually hone their business skills while keeping their creative spark alive. He emphasises the importance of identifying collaborators and supporters who can help along the way — we don’t have to do it all alone. 

“Whenever you are harnessing your creative practice for income generation, keep asking ‘where is my market, who are my clients and what do they want?’ And identify your point of difference – your unique offering”.

Andrew’s experience and dedication make him an invaluable asset to Creative Plus Business. His commitment to supporting creative professionals ensures that artists and entrepreneurs have the guidance they need to navigate the ever-evolving creative landscape.

Keen to know more about how you could book up to 8 hours of free advice, guidance, and mentoring with Andrew? If you’re based in NSW you can do this now through Service NSW Business Connect.

Visit our Business Connect page to learn more about the program or get in touch with Creative Plus Business team for tailored help.