Nicole Chaffey has developed a notable career in the arts sector grounded in the study of Fine Arts and her experience as a Biripi woman. She has worked with local Aboriginal communities in Melbourne, Newcastle and Port Stephens as part of a growing community of Indigenous creatives across the country committed to maintaining and promoting our rich traditions of Aboriginal cultural storytelling.

Through her own perspectives, artistic innovations and dedication to the creative process Chaffey shares heritage, language and story; acknowledging old history and communicating an essential and dependent relationship with the land and family connections.

Her creative practice often relies upon a supportive research practice, and searching for an avenue to delve into family connection and cultural history, Chaffey undertook a Masters of Philosophy (Aboriginal Studies/Contemporary Art) at Wollotuka, the University of Newcastle. She completed her studies in 2015 with research outcomes acknowledged with a Research Higher Excellence Award.

While entering the industry as a creative practitioner, a series of curatorial opportunities which followed post-graduation led Nicole to consider curation and exhibition development as promising and fulfilling career opportunities beyond her personal artistic pursuits.

Years of freelance experience eventually led to permanent supportive roles in creative and cultural spaces, from early career development for Aboriginal makers, workshop and exhibition program design to executive level arts organisational administration.

In her current role as Curator Director of Murrook Culture Centre, Nicole has guided the development of a sophisticated, high-tech knowledge centre for the Worimi people of Port Stephens, realising the community’s vision for immersive and engaging experiences which entertain and educate audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

While finding this occupation deeply rewarding, Chaffey maintains a multidisciplinary studio practice and a semiregular exhibition schedule.