IWCN Blog Article – A New Look for a New Chapter
As we step into the next chapter of the Inner West Creative Network, the Committee felt it was time to launch a new website—one that highlights what matters most to our members, subscribers, and local businesses.
To lead this transformation, we engaged Ray Parslow from ExtraBlack Agency to revisit our colour palette. Ray felt that the existing colours didn’t quite reflect the creative, contemporary spirit of the Inner West. They weren’t grounded in place or purpose.
Taking this on board, I suggested a series of new colours—each with both dark and light tones—to give flexibility and coherence across the site. The palette has been designed so the colours work well together, and the usage is intuitive.
The aim is to ensure that member images are framed beautifully and allowed to shine.
We also commissioned two very different photography approaches to build our new digital image library. Each brings a unique perspective to capturing our creative community.
Photographer and Creative Director Sam McAdam-Cooper
“I tried to find images that spoke to IWCN’s commitment to supporting artists and fostering connections, while also working within the design constraints of the website. The images need to complement the text—not be too busy or overwhelming. That’s a tricky balance. My brief was to convey the ideas of community, practice, and place.”
Performing Arts Photographer Shane Rosario
“What draws me to live performance is the thrill of capturing a moment that’s fleeting but powerful. I move around a lot when I shoot—I’m constantly looking for dynamics within the performance. I love creating images that make people pause, that evoke a sense of ‘I was there, but I didn’t see that.’
“Switching lenses is like putting on a new pair of eyes. When I shoot live performance, I feel intimately included in the moment. That kind of deep, focused observation often puts me in a daydream-like state—it’s a totally different experience from sitting still as an audience member.”
The launch of our new website on Friday 17 May will begin to showcase these beautiful new visuals and celebrate the Inner West’s vibrant creative landscape.
And from August, we’ll be rolling out new initiatives to grow our image library and highlight the incredible work of our members. Watch this space!