In a partnership going back to 2001, Mallesons and Arts Law have worked together on outreach and education initiatives, with each organisation offering complementary skills to amplify impact. “Our partnership with Mallesons has stood the test of time for both of our organisations, and is an enduring source of support for Australian artists and arts organisations,” says Dr Louise Buckingham, Chief Executive Officer at Arts Law.

Mallesons team members provide support for the Arts Law Document Review service (DRS), a foundational part of the practical advice Arts Law offers their subscribers. “Through the DRS clinic, I have seen the empowering impact that legal advice can have for an artist or arts organisation facing a legal problem,” says Kelly Williamson, Senior Associate and Coordinator for the DRS Service at Mallesons. “It is incredibly rewarding to hear clients’ confidence grow once they are equipped with appropriate legal advice.”

Arts Law’s Artists in the Black service supports Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists and art centres to protect cultural and creative rights and ensure artists receive rightful recognition and income. Mallesons' support for this service, through the document review panel and previous ‘Adopt a Lawyer’ arrangements facilitated by Arts Law, has been invaluable. “Through our partnership and shared ability to deliver accurate, culturally-appropriate advice in an empathetic way, Arts Law and Mallesons have supported emerging artists and First Nations communities to better understand and protect their rights over time,” says Louise.

Louise also highlights the value for Mallesons lawyers from getting involved with Arts Law matters. “It offers exposure to unique, purpose-driven work and the opportunity for direct connection with artists and communities,” she says. “Our clients, legal matters and the areas of law we practice in are some of the most interesting, exciting and fulfilling available.”

Arts Law secondee Cree Oliveira is one of the many Mallesons lawyers to have gained these benefits from her Artists in Black experience travelling to Bula’bula Arts Centre in Ramingining, NT. “Ramingining is a special place and Bula’bula is absolutely at its heart,” says Cree. “We worked with Bula’bula to prepare and workshop an artists’ agreement, with the aim of empowering artists to ensure that their intellectual property rights are protected and they are fairly compensated for their work, in ways that make sense for Yolnu culture.”

Cree particularly enjoyed connecting with the artists and getting to know their work. “Everyone we worked with was so generous in sharing their stories and work with us,” she says. “It’s clear that the work is so connected to culture and place. A standout was an incredible catfish weaving, and the meticulous cross-hatched lines on many of the paintings. Seeing the way of life in Ramingining was an incredible experience.” Louise says that having Cree involved made it a very valuable engagement with the Bula’bula Arts Centre. “Many thanks to Mallesons for the generous loan of Cree,” she says. “She is a wonderful ambassador, for the firm and our partnership.”