Meet Our Guest with Eve Rayner

Image supplied by Eve Rayner.

For this edition of Meet our Guest, we interviewed the newest member of Guest Work Agency’s team, Paralegal Eve Rayner. With a double degree in Law and Art History (almost) under her belt, Eve brings with her a signature love of all things art that is central to GWA.

Tell us about your studies. Why did you choose to undertake a double degree in law and art history, as opposed to pursuing an arts degree first, followed by a JD (Juris Doctorate)?

During my final years of high school, I had the opportunity of completing Art History subjects at the University of Melbourne through their extension studies program. I loved it and became determined to pursue further education in art history and curatorial studies.

I was hesitant to pigeonhole myself into one avenue or career so early on. I try to juggle my analytical and creative skillset as much as I can, and enjoy using both; I feel they inform one another greatly. At the time, the Australian National University (ANU) was the only university which allowed me to study Art History as a double degree, so in 2020 I made the decision to move to Canberra. Law was a natural fit due to my interest in legal issues, and I’ve loved the variety the university program offers. Studying both subjects at the same time has allowed me to still be creative whilst being academically invigorated. At ANU, we take our classes alongside the JD students, something I really enjoy. The double degree format at ANU means I have the best of both worlds. I’m glad I chose to pursue this option rather than waiting to embark on post-graduate studies.  

You’ve been with GWA for a couple of months now. What are some of the most exciting matters or projects you are working on?

I’ve really enjoyed working with clients on public artwork commissions. Being a part of the planning stages is an area I find really interesting, and ultimately it’s so rewarding to see the finished product come to life. These projects have given me greater insights regarding contract negotiation, the types of clauses to include in contracts and the many moving parts which result in a large-scale artwork coming to fruition. I’ve been lucky enough to see Alex Seton’s recent work at the Australian War Memorial in person, which was particularly exciting for me as I know the Guest Work Agency team put a lot of time into helping facilitate the legals for this work. I wrote a story for GWA’s website about the commission, which you can read here.

Tell us more about your post-study career aspirations.

Firstly, I want to be admitted so I can practice law. I’m looking forward to working in law, preferably in intellectual property and art law, as I’m thoroughly enjoying my current work. I started my law degree with the ambition to help people, so to continue working in the arts space would be rewarding. I know that artists are often hesitant to access legal services, so to be able to facilitate this is something I aspire to do.

I’d love to have the opportunity to be able to practice overseas. Hopefully this becomes a reality sometime in the near future! Moving away from home to Canberra at a young age was a big step, however I’ve enjoyed the challenges that it’s presented. I’m far more independent and confident, two things I know came from moving away from home. Having relocated cities once, I’m now more comfortable seeking job opportunities Australia-wide and internationally.

What advice would you give to someone wanting to work in a specialised area of legal practice like art law?

I would say, “do it”! It’s incredibly rewarding to be able to work in an area you’re passionate about. I know art law is an area I want to eventually practice in, so my advice for others is if they are similarly motivated by their interests, think about pursuing that in their own career. Law has so many niche subject areas which would be elevated by having specialist lawyers focussed on it. Having studied an unconventional double degree, I know that different areas of study can inform each other, no matter how different they may seem. To anyone who has a similar skillset, I suggest finding out if there is an area of law which can utilise your knowledge and passion.

What kinds of things do you enjoy doing aside from work and study?

Work and study keep me quite busy, but I always make time to do activities I enjoy. Canberra has a very tight-knit student population, so I’m lucky enough to live close to friends. Seeing them on the weekends is always fun, and I’m grateful to have them nearby. I also enjoy keeping up with the AFL - it reminds me of home. Watching the games and local community sport is something I really enjoy.

What do you think is the most rewarding aspect of working in art law?

Ensuring that artists have their intellectual property protected. Artists work so hard to bring their ideas to life, so to have the opportunity to facilitate the legal protection of their work is something I’m very passionate about. Encouraging education regarding intellectual property rights is something I wish to continue, particularly directed towards emerging artists in the early stages of their career. I enjoy having the ability to work with some incredibly creative and talented people, knowing I can help them navigate the intersection of art and law is a rewarding experience.