Owner / Founder

Maeve Grant is a music industry professional passionate about supporting and promoting independent artists. As the owner and founder of Gumnut Artists, she has established herself as a driving force within her music community.

With a keen eye for talent and a deep understanding of the industry, Maeve has built her business into a reputable agency known for its commitment to artist development, nurture and success.

Her career has been marked by her unwavering passion for live acts and her ability to create meaningful connections. After completing a Bachelor of Creative Industries with a major in Media and Communications in 2021, Maeve moved quickly into full-time employment as an events specialist at JC Entertainment & Events.

In 2023 she committed to launching her own business to support and advocate for original artists close to her heart. Bringing a wealth of knowledge, drive, kindness and guidance to the table, Maeve also advocates for innovation and a business mindset that caters to the needs of creatives.

She is a member of the Association of Artist Managers and has recently completed the AIR (Australian Independent Records Association) Women in Music Mentor program and was mentored by leading industry veteran Maggie Collins and continues to be mentored by Tim Dalton.

She continues to advocate for artists, helping them navigate the ever-evolving and extremely diverse lifestyle of being a working musician and achieving goals.

Administrative and Media Executive

Ella Paterson is a dedicated music photographer, filmmaker, independent writer and industry professional within the vibrant landscape of the Newcastle music scene. With an unyielding passion for both capturing and contributing to the essence of local music, Ella has carved out a niche for herself as a decisive figure in the industry.

Her journey began with a profound love for music and the arts. A ‘Novacastrian’ born and bred, Ella grew up around theatre and live music and it served as endless inspiration during her formative years. This seamlessly merged with her deep-seated fascination for photography and photographic practice. Through her lens, Ella adeptly captures the raw energy and emotive essence of live performances, immortalising the moments that have come to define the local music scene in Newcastle.

Ella Paterson's journey through Newcastle's music landscape is inseparable from her deep-rooted admiration for the local DIY scene. Embodying the spirit of grassroots creativity and independence, Ella has not only documented but actively contributed to the thriving community that defines Newcastle's alternative music culture.

From intimate backyard gigs to guerrilla performances in unconventional venues, her photographs not only freeze moments in time but also reflect the DIY ethos of authenticity, passion, and innovation that permeates the Newcastle scene. In her short documentary released in 2023 ‘The Divine Chatroom’, she explores the uniqueness of Newcastle’s DIY culture through the lens of three local artists and friends.

Ella Has also collaborated with bands nationally and internationally to bring a vision to life that compliments and enhances the product. She continues to work within Gumnut Artists and the community to uphold grassroots talent and ethos.

Professional Grant Writer & Advisor

Working many years in the creative industries, Leah's knowledge extends into grant and proposal writing, event organisation, communications and digital media.

With a passion for people and creativity, she aims to empower practitioners in their field of work through inclusivity and liberation.

Her work with The Y Project (Newcastle, NSW), Big Picture Festival (2023), Watch This Space (2021), and many more projects have contributed to her extensive knowledge and work ethic in the creative industries.

Leah’s keen eye for creative direction and concept pitching led her to write grants for recording projects, touring projects, multi-disciplinary exhibitions and festivals.