Magnify – get to know Vonne Patiag

This week we introduce the final two artists working on Magnify this year. It’s been a year of change and uncertainty. While each of us have navigated personal and social challenges, the artists in Magnify have found space and creative energy to reflect, experiment and connect, making work throughout lockdown and participating in a shared dreaming of what new ideas look like in western Sydney in a pandemic.

Vonne Pataig is a seasoned film curator and maker, bringing the regions best short films together in Western Sydney Shorts and being an active producer of new works and commissions as well as developing a successful screenwriting profile. In a conversation, Vonne reveals below what lockdown has done to his sense of place in western Sydney and the benefits of a pandemic forcing you to start fresh.

How has the lockdown impacted your creative process?

The lockdowns have obviously affected my ability to take any project into production, and even when on set, COVID regulations are quite restrictive to mobility. But I am thankful that the lockdown has given me more time to develop new projects, and also re-ignite old ones. Whenever lockdown has hit, I find my slate wiped clean, which actually allows me to focus and prioritise my own projects so it’s been nice to use that time effectively.

What are your thoughts and how do you feel about participating in Magnify as an emerging artist?

I’m very excited to be participating as part of Magnify (again!). I love this festival as it really does empower and showcase what artists are capable of in the Blacktown region, and celebrates our unique stories sitting in our own backyard.

What can people look forward to about your artwork in Magnify?

I hope audiences can look forward to seeing themselves on screen (once again). I’m excited to be working with and commissioning new films from local voices, giving the next generation a chance to gain filmmaking experience and showcase their talents. These films will honour the heart and resilience of the people of Blacktown, and also showcase the great filming locations throughout the city.