program

Interplay

Nexus Arts’ Interplay program offers a unique forum for contemporary musicians from culturally diverse and First Nations backgrounds to develop their practice, networks, and community.

Interplay provides individualised and group-based development activities over the course of one year. The program aims to provide dedicated space for artists to develop, share and connect, bringing contemporary musicians together in the spirit of intercultural communication, exploration and creation.

With the support of the Music Development Office, Nexus Arts is inviting contemporary musicians from culturally diverse and First Nations backgrounds to apply to take part in a unique program that encompasses career guidance, a tailored mentorship, a creative intensive and a performance series. The yearlong program aims to bolster creativity, connection, and community in an intercultural and supportive environment.

Program artists take part in:

One on one career development sessions with Nexus staff
A personalised mentorship with a creative or industry professional
A 5-day creative intensive at Nexus Arts with other program artists
An individual photoshoot with an experienced music photographer
A live music video shoot at Nexus Arts Venue
Development of your Electronic Press Kit
Artist catch up sessions
A performance series at Nexus Arts

In 2025, we are delighted to be working with:

Katie Aspel
LENI
My Chérie
Nahlla
Sandra Gan
Sonia Smith

Get to know the 2025 Interplay Artists:

Photo by Jacinta Keefe

Katie Aspel
I am a proud Ngarrindjeri and Gunditjmara singer/songwriter who has been immersed in music from a young age. My musical journey began with singing around the house as a child, and I later taught myself to play the guitar. From the age of 14, I started writing my songs, and my current sound blends pop vocals with soulful guitar. My lyrics explore themes of love, culture, and personal experiences. One of my singles, released in 2020, focused on cultural pride and was written with my beautiful grandparents. A big part of who I am as an artist is truth telling through song which was what I wanted to achieve writing a song with my grandparents as it is very important to learn from our elders so that we can pass down knowledge to the next generation.

Photo by Hills House Media

LENI
Emerging from a rich cultural tapestry, LENI is a dynamic songwriter, singer, and performer who weaves soulful R&B with the intimacy of folk country storytelling & vibrancy of contemporary pop. Born in Santiago, Chile, with proud Indigenous Mapuche heritage, and now based in Adelaide, LENI brings a fresh, heartfelt perspective to the Australian music scene. LENI’s artistry is deeply rooted in themes of love, healing, resilience, and connection. His emotive vocal tones and powerful songwriting have quickly set him apart, captivating audiences at local venues and festivals alike. From intimate acoustic sets to high-energy performances, LENI’s magnetic stage presence and authentic storytelling leave a lasting impression.

Photo by Clementine’s Gallery

My Chérie
Award-winning ‘My Chérie’ is known for her mesmerising stage presence, ethereal vocals and songwriting that tackle raw and emotive topics, largely focussing on self-love and empowerment. Even with darker themes, her songs exude hopefulness and promise, striking a delicate balance between exploring the pain of personal, growth heartbreak and faith; evoking deep and relatable emotions while leaving listeners feeling empowered.

Having spent her childhood in South Africa, the impact and inspiration of her homeland and native Afrikaans is woven throughout her music, forming the basis of her transforming live shows. The heart of her performances is to create a unique experience for audiences and create honest and authentic connections.

Nahlla
Nahlla is a singer-songwriter with over 10 years of experience participating in important projects in Colombia and Australia. She proudly represents the growing community of Latino migrants in Australia, sharing original compositions about hope, mental health, self-discovery and women’s empowerment in her performances. Nahlla celebrates our innate resilience and capacity to achieve dreams, advocating for unity and a communal effort to foster a better human connection.

Photo by Evie Wonder

Sandra Gan
Sandra Gan’s music combines authenticity with a powerful message of hope, connecting deeply with her listeners. Her debut single, “For You”, marked the beginning of her storytelling journey, inspired by the physical separation from her mother. “Pure and Red” revealed her versatility as she ventured into rap, challenging herself to grow creatively. Her latest single, “Dream”, explores personal transformation, tackling themes of vulnerability, love, and detachment from materialism while embracing a more purposeful, spiritual path.

Sandra’s self-produced debut EP, “Burn”, showcases her commitment to addressing courage, truth, and love with bold, introspective lyrics and a playful edge. This project reflects her growth as both a songwriter and performer.

Sonia Smith
Sonia Smith is a First Nations Gugada (Kokatha) emerging artist, singer and songwriter. With her powerful voice, music and lyrics, Sonia shares the story of her life, from rock bottom times lost in addiction to the clean and sober warrior woman she is today. Delivering a unique blend of folk, blues, gospel, country and rock, Sonia shares her endless strength and resilience through story and song with all heart and soul.