The Creator's Network: Creative Connections

Monday 23 June

5:30–8:00 pm

Somerville Mechanics Hall

Celebrating our female creatives for International Women’s Day – rescheduled!

Join us for a special event bringing together creatives from across our Peninsula for an inspiring evening of networking, discussion, and live performances. Whether you're an artist, musician, writer, or creative professional, this event is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate, connect, and be inspired by local talent.

Event Schedule:

5:30–6:00 pm – Live Music & Refreshments
Enjoy a relaxed start to the event with live music and refreshments, providing an opportunity to connect with fellow creatives in a welcoming atmosphere. Live music thanks to Emily Jane Pritchard.

6:00–7:00 pm – Panel Discussion led by our facilitator award-winning broadcaster Tracee Hutchison
Gain insights from a panel of accomplished creative professionals as they share their journeys, experiences, and perspectives on creativity, resilience, and community impact.

Panelists:

• Dunja Rmandic – Director of the Mornington Peninsula Regional Gallery (MPRG), bringing expertise in visual arts and cultural leadership. With extensive experience in curating contemporary art exhibitions, she is passionate about fostering creative communities and supporting emerging and established artists.

• Eleesa Howard – A talented local artist whose work delves into personal narratives, childhood memories, motherhood, and community connections. Through a delicate interplay of colour, texture, and form, Eleesa captures intimate moments and shared experiences, creating art that resonates deeply with audiences. Her practice is rooted in storytelling, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of identity, relationships, and belonging.

• Holly Ryan – A First Nations artist and graphic designer, Holly’s work merges contemporary design with her deep cultural heritage. Inspired by her family’s legacy in the AFL and her connection to Bunurong Country, she uses art to educate, celebrate, and preserve Indigenous culture, fostering healing and community connection.

• Kelly Nash – A dynamic performer with a rich history in theatre, television, and comedy. From Melbourne’s independent theatre scene to national TV screens, Kelly has captivated audiences with her versatility and humour. Whether touring schools as a Theatre-in-Education actor, embodying the flamboyant Queenie Kent, or earning accolades in the British Web Awards, she brings passion and presence to every role.

• Inanna Indigo - Wotjobaluk artist, creative manager, and frontwoman of Inanna Indigo, formerly known as Indigo Mckeon Music. With a sonic landscape that's both expansive and intimate, Inanna Indigo offers a tender blend of soul, jazz, folk, and indie. For Indigo, music and art have always been forms of solace and sacred space for healing and sharing. These relationships with artistry have served as the foundation for her career.

7:00–8:30 pm – Networking & Closing Performances
Continue the conversations, make new creative connections, and enjoy more live music to wrap up the event.

 

More about the United Nations IWD 2025: MARCH FORWARD

Thirty years ago, the world committed to a bold vision for gender equality through the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

Since then, we’ve seen women break barriers, reshape policies, and ignite global movements. Yet, despite significant progress, the promises made remain largely unfulfilled for millions of women worldwide. We are simply not where we should be.

It’s time to turn promises into progress. Visit: IWD 2025: March Forward - UN Women Australia

 

Join us at The Creators Network, a series of creative networking events aimed at developing greater collaboration and sustainability in our broad and diverse arts and culture community. Connect with like-minded creatives and artists.

 

 

When

Location

Somerville Mechanics Hall, 66 Station St, Somerville, 3912, View Map