Tell us a bit about who you are and what kind of creative work you make
I'm a professional DJ of 14 years, having performed at thousands of weddings, corporate events, nightclubs, fashion shows and even for an episode of The Bachelor and Khloe Kardashian when she visited Sydney for the launch of the 'Kardashian Kollection'
I'm also a podcast technical producer providing a range of services from audio and video editing, mix/sound engineering and recording support to consultation and advice for people starting out.
Whereabouts do you look for creative ideas? Who or what inspires you?
I'm inspired by everything. I hear a sound and think "what a sample!". I use Voice Memos on my phone to record especially while bushwalking. I created a song called Bebis Djou in 2021 that prominently features the distinctive whistle of Eastern Whipbirds.
Are there any special processes, techniques or tools you use to make your creative work?
As mentioned above; I like to sample and play around with audio to come up with new results using Ableton Live. I use it to carefully curate DJ mixes, edit existing songs and create new ones. I've also begun exploring generative AI and it is wildly impressive!
What is a creative project that you've worked on that you're really proud of? Why? What creative project are you working on at the moment?
My first officially released production; a song called Shooter (under my artist name Zabier). I'm proud of it because it caught the attention of a record label in the UK and a number of artists who chose to remix it out of the wide variety of songs on offer.
Most recently I consulted and improved the audio quality on the first episode of a podcast about domestic violence that is hoping to gain traction.
What's your favourite part of working as an artist / creative?
The lifestyle and the freedom. After a childhood of getting up early 7 days a week for school, sport etc., it's been really nice to be able to stay up until all hours being creative and then able to sleep in the next day and not have to rush to get ready to start my day (most of the time).
What is the most challenging part of working as an artist / creative?
Dealing with procrastination and an unpredictable routine. I experience a funny but also frustrating phenomenon where if I try to take advantage of a quiet day, I end up hearing from everyone all at once but if I anticipate receiving any enquiries, I end up sitting around all day.
Do you have any top tips for emerging artists and creatives just starting out?
There is a wealth of free resources thanks to the internet and mobile phones. Search for local council and government funded initiatives, incentives etc. to help you out.
We always love recommendations! Who are some other local artists we should check out?
Any of the artists featured in the Creative Spotlight. Support your local artists the same as you would support any other local business as that is what we are!
