Established in 2008, The Visual Storytellers are a collective of talented, creative and inspiring graphic artists and communication experts.
We travel around Sydney and beyond, attending events, functions and corporate conferences to bring words to life through compelling, entertaining and engaging graphic recording.
If you’re organising an event or looking for a way to make your next presentation, client meeting or team offsite more engaging, contact us to create memorable visual content.
When people speak about creativity, they say ‘think outside the box’. When it comes to Paul… there is no box. He is all about creativity and self-expression.
More than an illustrator, Paul has spent his career facilitating and leading teams to help organisations come together to accelerate ideation, solve complex problems and help communicate complex solutions in creative and engaging ways so that they are seen, heard and remembered.
At large conferences and workshops, Paul illustrates conversations large and live to the side of the room on whiteboards. You’ll find him at your event creating interactive visual memories that help your audience remember the session and retain content for much longer.
Outside of live events, a wide range of businesses engage Paul for bespoke explainer video animation or to breathe colourful, creative life into presentations.
Paul’s engaging content is always well received by audiences from across industries.
Through my art I can explore the depths of connection to both my inner and external world. Sometimes I have an intention for what I want to create.
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Videographer & Content Creator
Tom Golding
Imagining a concept, realising it on camera, piecing it together in the edit suite then putting it out into the world – Tom loves nothing more than the magic of creating something from nothing.
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Head Communications Trainer
Emma Deans
Seeking out the training to accompany her passion, Emma took private lessons throughout her teens, going to anyone who could teach her something new.
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Companies Who Trust The Visual Storytellers Group
faqs
Frequently Asked Questions
People say about Paul that when it comes to creativity think outside the box but with Paul there is no box. He is all about creativity and self-expression. What do they say about The Visual Storytellers Group well you can watch some testimonial videos here :
One of the tricks you learn as a seasoned visual practitioner is to create a vast visual vocabulary. This means we create a massive series of icons that we use over and again to create graphic recording live. Imagine this like a set of emoticons that we can call on fast, draw quickly and mix and match to produce new and different distinct ideas to represent anything that might be spoken to. But, if we do get stuck a few deep breathes and re-centering usually gets us back on track to creating a great set of visual minutes for your event.
We have been drawing for nearly 40 years but visual scribing / mind-mapping/ visual note-taking for almost 20 years. Wow! Even we didn’t think it had been that long!
Ok. This depends on what we sort of graphic recording or visual storytelling we are creating for you. 90% of our live graphic recording services are done completely spontaneously on the day. We may start with an empty scribe template with a title and name of the event. But the rest of it is off the cuff happening live in the room.
But sometimes we work with workshop facilitators planning and preparing the workshop together. In this case we may prepare templates, graphic maps and other tools that we fill out on the day. Even then the actual pictures and words we capture come from the room live. We never have a plan for what we will draw and just draw that out. It all comes from the room.
Our artists come from many varied and broad backgrounds but all touch upon some sort of art, drawing or facilitation background. Our founder comes from an art and computing background that lead into studying industrial design. On graduating he fell into working for the top 4 consulting firms as a graphic scribe, facilitator, team lead and workshop designer. Before breaking out and creating The Visual Storytellers Group. Still an artist and now a Dad he loves all things creativity. Creating all the things with his Daughter would be his dream job if it were able to be one!
The qualifications needed for graphic facilitators typically include a strong background in visual arts, communication skills, and experience in facilitation. Additionally, creativity and the ability to think quickly are essential for effectively capturing ideas in real-time during events.
Are there certification programs for graphic facilitation?
Certification programs for graphic facilitation do exist, offering structured training to enhance skills in visual storytelling and graphic recording techniques. These programs can help professionals gain credibility and improve their effectiveness in engaging audiences at events.
What tools do graphic recorders use during sessions?
Graphic recorders use a variety of tools during sessions, including large paper sheets, markers of different colours and thicknesses, and digital tablets for real-time visual documentation. These tools help capture and illustrate ideas effectively.
Can graphic facilitation improve team collaboration?
Graphic facilitation can significantly enhance team collaboration by visually capturing ideas and discussions in real-time. This approach fosters clearer communication, encourages participation, and helps teams align on goals, ultimately leading to more effective collaboration.
How does graphic recording enhance event engagement?
Graphic recording enhances event engagement by visually capturing key ideas and discussions in real-time, making complex information more accessible and memorable for participants. This dynamic approach fosters interaction and keeps audiences focused and involved throughout the event.
What industries benefit most from graphic facilitation?
The industries that benefit most from graphic facilitation include corporate sectors, education, healthcare, and non-profits. These fields leverage visual storytelling to enhance communication, engagement, and understanding during meetings and events.
How do graphic facilitators capture complex discussions?
Graphic facilitators capture complex discussions by actively listening and visually synthesising information in real-time, using drawings, symbols, and text to represent key ideas and relationships, making the content accessible and engaging for all participants.
What are the best practices for graphic recording?
The best practices for graphic recording include actively listening to speakers, capturing key ideas succinctly, using clear visuals and symbols, and ensuring the layout is organised for easy understanding, all while engaging the audience effectively.
How is graphic facilitation used in workshops?
Graphic facilitation is used in workshops to visually capture discussions, ideas, and key points in real-time. This enhances understanding and engagement, allowing participants to see their thoughts represented visually, fostering collaboration and clarity throughout the session.
What are the rates for professional graphic recording services?
The rates for professional graphic recording services vary based on the event's scope and duration. For a detailed quote tailored to your needs, please contact us directly to discuss your specific requirements.
How do graphic recorders handle confidential information?
Graphic recorders handle confidential information with the utmost care by adhering to strict confidentiality agreements and ensuring that sensitive content is securely managed during and after events. They prioritise client privacy and data protection throughout the graphic recording process.
What is the difference between graphic recording and facilitation?
The difference between graphic recording and facilitation lies in their focus: graphic recording visually captures discussions in real-time, while facilitation guides the process and interaction among participants to ensure effective communication and engagement.
How can one find graphic facilitation training in Sydney?
Finding graphic facilitation training in Sydney can be achieved by researching local workshops, online courses, and professional organisations that specialise in visual storytelling. Networking with industry professionals can also provide valuable recommendations.
What are the key skills for live graphic recording?
The key skills for live graphic recording include strong listening abilities, quick sketching, visual summarisation, and an understanding of visual storytelling techniques. These skills enable graphic recorders to effectively capture and convey complex ideas in real-time.
How do graphic facilitators prepare for an event?
Graphic facilitators prepare for an event by conducting thorough research on the event's objectives, audience, and key topics, collaborating with clients to understand their vision, and ensuring they have all necessary materials and tools ready for effective visual storytelling.
Can graphic facilitation be done remotely?
Graphic facilitation can indeed be done remotely. Through digital tools and platforms, our skilled visual storytellers can capture and illustrate ideas in real-time, ensuring effective communication and engagement during virtual events.
How does graphic recording complement traditional minutes?
Graphic recording complements traditional minutes by providing a visual representation of discussions, making key points more memorable and engaging. This dynamic format enhances understanding and retention, serving as a powerful supplement to written documentation.
What is the typical duration of graphic facilitation services?
The typical duration of graphic facilitation services varies depending on the event's needs, usually ranging from a few hours for workshops to full-day engagements for conferences, ensuring comprehensive visual documentation throughout the session.
How do graphic facilitators stay unbiased during sessions?
Graphic facilitators stay unbiased during sessions by actively listening to all participants, focusing solely on the content being shared, and ensuring that their visual representations reflect the diverse perspectives presented without personal interpretation or bias.
In what settings is live graphic recording most effective?
Live graphic recording is most effective in settings such as corporate events, workshops, conferences, and brainstorming sessions, where visual communication enhances engagement, clarifies complex ideas, and captures real-time discussions.
What visual techniques are common in graphic facilitation?
Common visual techniques in graphic facilitation include sketchnoting, mind mapping, iconography, and the use of colour coding to enhance understanding and engagement, allowing complex ideas to be visually represented and easily communicated during events.
How do graphic facilitators handle language barriers?
Graphic facilitators effectively manage language barriers by using visual symbols, imagery, and universal design elements to convey messages clearly. This approach ensures that all participants can engage and understand the content, regardless of their language proficiency.
Can graphic facilitation aid in conflict resolution?
Graphic facilitation can aid in conflict resolution by visually mapping out differing perspectives, fostering understanding, and encouraging open dialogue among participants. This process helps clarify issues and promotes collaborative problem-solving.
How is digital graphic recording performed live?
Digital graphic recording is performed live by capturing key ideas and discussions in real-time using digital tools. A skilled graphic recorder listens actively, synthesises information, and creates engaging visuals that reflect the event's themes and messages as they unfold.
What outcomes should one expect from graphic facilitation?
The outcomes one should expect from graphic facilitation include enhanced clarity of complex ideas, improved engagement among participants, and a visual record of discussions that fosters better understanding and retention of information during corporate events.
How does graphic recording impact audience retention?
Graphic recording significantly enhances audience retention by transforming complex information into engaging visuals. This visual representation aids memory recall, keeps participants focused, and fosters a deeper understanding of the content presented during corporate events.
Why is graphic facilitation important for strategic planning?
Graphic facilitation is crucial for strategic planning as it visually captures ideas and discussions, enhancing understanding and engagement among participants. This approach fosters clearer communication, aids in aligning goals, and promotes collaborative decision-making.
Can graphic recording be a full-time profession?
Graphic recording can indeed be a full-time profession. Many skilled graphic facilitators successfully build careers by providing visual storytelling services at corporate events, enhancing communication and engagement for clients.
How to ensure clarity in complex graphic recordings?
Ensuring clarity in complex graphic recordings involves using simple visuals, clear labels, and a logical flow of information. Prioritising key messages and employing colour coding can also enhance understanding for your audience.
What are the challenges faced by graphic facilitators?
The challenges faced by graphic facilitators include managing real-time visualisation under pressure, ensuring clarity amidst complex discussions, and adapting to varying audience dynamics while maintaining engagement and accuracy in their visual representations.
At The Visual Storytellers, we offer a variety of services designed to enhance communication through visual storytelling. From graphic recording at live events to creating bespoke visual content for presentations, our offerings are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Our services include live graphic facilitation, animated explainer videos, and visual notes that capture the essence of discussions in real-time. Whether you need a dynamic visual presence at a corporate conference or engaging content for online meetings, our team is equipped to deliver high-quality results that resonate with your audience.
Client Testimonials
Client feedback is a vital part of our growth and improvement. We take pride in the positive experiences shared by those who have engaged our services, showcasing the impact of visual storytelling on their events.
Many clients have noted how our graphic facilitation not only made their presentations more engaging but also helped clarify complex ideas. Testimonials often highlight the professionalism and creativity of our team, affirming the value we bring to corporate communications.
Booking Process
Engaging The Visual Storytellers for your event is a straightforward process designed to ensure a seamless experience. Our booking system allows clients to easily schedule consultations and secure our services for their specific needs.
Once you reach out, we’ll discuss your event objectives, the type of visual services required, and any specific themes or messages you want to convey. This collaborative approach helps us tailor our offerings to provide the most impactful visual storytelling experience for your audience.
Our Impact
The impact of visual storytelling extends beyond mere aesthetics; it enhances understanding, retention, and engagement. Research shows that visuals can significantly improve audience recall and comprehension, making our services invaluable for effective communication.
Through our work, we aim to foster a deeper connection between speakers and their audiences. By transforming complex ideas into engaging visuals, we help organizations convey their messages more clearly and memorably, ultimately driving better outcomes in meetings and events.
The qualifications needed for graphic facilitators typically include a strong background in visual arts, communication skills, and experience in facilitation. Additionally, creativity and the ability to think quickly are essential for effectively capturing ideas in real-time during events.
Are there certification programs for graphic facilitation?
Certification programs for graphic facilitation do exist, offering structured training to enhance skills in visual storytelling and graphic recording techniques. These programs can help professionals gain credibility and improve their effectiveness in engaging audiences at events.
What tools do graphic recorders use during sessions?
Graphic recorders use a variety of tools during sessions, including large paper sheets, markers of different colours and thicknesses, and digital tablets for real-time visual documentation. These tools help capture and illustrate ideas effectively.
Can graphic facilitation improve team collaboration?
Graphic facilitation can significantly enhance team collaboration by visually capturing ideas and discussions in real-time. This approach fosters clearer communication, encourages participation, and helps teams align on goals, ultimately leading to more effective collaboration.
How does graphic recording enhance event engagement?
Graphic recording enhances event engagement by visually capturing key ideas and discussions in real-time, making complex information more accessible and memorable for participants. This dynamic approach fosters interaction and keeps audiences focused and involved throughout the event.
What industries benefit most from graphic facilitation?
The industries that benefit most from graphic facilitation include corporate sectors, education, healthcare, and non-profits. These fields leverage visual storytelling to enhance communication, engagement, and understanding during meetings and events.
How do graphic facilitators capture complex discussions?
Graphic facilitators capture complex discussions by actively listening and visually synthesising information in real-time, using drawings, symbols, and text to represent key ideas and relationships, making the content accessible and engaging for all participants.
What are the best practices for graphic recording?
The best practices for graphic recording include actively listening to speakers, capturing key ideas succinctly, using clear visuals and symbols, and ensuring the layout is organised for easy understanding, all while engaging the audience effectively.
How is graphic facilitation used in workshops?
Graphic facilitation is used in workshops to visually capture discussions, ideas, and key points in real-time. This enhances understanding and engagement, allowing participants to see their thoughts represented visually, fostering collaboration and clarity throughout the session.
What are the rates for professional graphic recording services?
The rates for professional graphic recording services vary based on the event's scope and duration. For a detailed quote tailored to your needs, please contact us directly to discuss your specific requirements.
How do graphic recorders handle confidential information?
Graphic recorders handle confidential information with the utmost care by adhering to strict confidentiality agreements and ensuring that sensitive content is securely managed during and after events. They prioritise client privacy and data protection throughout the graphic recording process.
What is the difference between graphic recording and facilitation?
The difference between graphic recording and facilitation lies in their focus: graphic recording visually captures discussions in real-time, while facilitation guides the process and interaction among participants to ensure effective communication and engagement.
How can one find graphic facilitation training in Sydney?
Finding graphic facilitation training in Sydney can be achieved by researching local workshops, online courses, and professional organisations that specialise in visual storytelling. Networking with industry professionals can also provide valuable recommendations.
What are the key skills for live graphic recording?
The key skills for live graphic recording include strong listening abilities, quick sketching, visual summarisation, and an understanding of visual storytelling techniques. These skills enable graphic recorders to effectively capture and convey complex ideas in real-time.
How do graphic facilitators prepare for an event?
Graphic facilitators prepare for an event by conducting thorough research on the event's objectives, audience, and key topics, collaborating with clients to understand their vision, and ensuring they have all necessary materials and tools ready for effective visual storytelling.
Can graphic facilitation be done remotely?
Graphic facilitation can indeed be done remotely. Through digital tools and platforms, our skilled visual storytellers can capture and illustrate ideas in real-time, ensuring effective communication and engagement during virtual events.
How does graphic recording complement traditional minutes?
Graphic recording complements traditional minutes by providing a visual representation of discussions, making key points more memorable and engaging. This dynamic format enhances understanding and retention, serving as a powerful supplement to written documentation.
What is the typical duration of graphic facilitation services?
The typical duration of graphic facilitation services varies depending on the event's needs, usually ranging from a few hours for workshops to full-day engagements for conferences, ensuring comprehensive visual documentation throughout the session.
How do graphic facilitators stay unbiased during sessions?
Graphic facilitators stay unbiased during sessions by actively listening to all participants, focusing solely on the content being shared, and ensuring that their visual representations reflect the diverse perspectives presented without personal interpretation or bias.
In what settings is live graphic recording most effective?
Live graphic recording is most effective in settings such as corporate events, workshops, conferences, and brainstorming sessions, where visual communication enhances engagement, clarifies complex ideas, and captures real-time discussions.
What visual techniques are common in graphic facilitation?
Common visual techniques in graphic facilitation include sketchnoting, mind mapping, iconography, and the use of colour coding to enhance understanding and engagement, allowing complex ideas to be visually represented and easily communicated during events.
How do graphic facilitators handle language barriers?
Graphic facilitators effectively manage language barriers by using visual symbols, imagery, and universal design elements to convey messages clearly. This approach ensures that all participants can engage and understand the content, regardless of their language proficiency.
Can graphic facilitation aid in conflict resolution?
Graphic facilitation can aid in conflict resolution by visually mapping out differing perspectives, fostering understanding, and encouraging open dialogue among participants. This process helps clarify issues and promotes collaborative problem-solving.
How is digital graphic recording performed live?
Digital graphic recording is performed live by capturing key ideas and discussions in real-time using digital tools. A skilled graphic recorder listens actively, synthesises information, and creates engaging visuals that reflect the event's themes and messages as they unfold.
What outcomes should one expect from graphic facilitation?
The outcomes one should expect from graphic facilitation include enhanced clarity of complex ideas, improved engagement among participants, and a visual record of discussions that fosters better understanding and retention of information during corporate events.
How does graphic recording impact audience retention?
Graphic recording significantly enhances audience retention by transforming complex information into engaging visuals. This visual representation aids memory recall, keeps participants focused, and fosters a deeper understanding of the content presented during corporate events.
Why is graphic facilitation important for strategic planning?
Graphic facilitation is crucial for strategic planning as it visually captures ideas and discussions, enhancing understanding and engagement among participants. This approach fosters clearer communication, aids in aligning goals, and promotes collaborative decision-making.
Can graphic recording be a full-time profession?
Graphic recording can indeed be a full-time profession. Many skilled graphic facilitators successfully build careers by providing visual storytelling services at corporate events, enhancing communication and engagement for clients.
How to ensure clarity in complex graphic recordings?
Ensuring clarity in complex graphic recordings involves using simple visuals, clear labels, and a logical flow of information. Prioritising key messages and employing colour coding can also enhance understanding for your audience.
What are the challenges faced by graphic facilitators?
The challenges faced by graphic facilitators include managing real-time visualisation under pressure, ensuring clarity amidst complex discussions, and adapting to varying audience dynamics while maintaining engagement and accuracy in their visual representations.
At The Visual Storytellers, we offer a variety of services designed to enhance communication through visual storytelling. From graphic recording at live events to creating bespoke visual content for presentations, our offerings are tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.
Our services include live graphic facilitation, animated explainer videos, and visual notes that capture the essence of discussions in real-time. Whether you need a dynamic visual presence at a corporate conference or engaging content for online meetings, our team is equipped to deliver high-quality results that resonate with your audience.
Client Testimonials
Client feedback is a vital part of our growth and improvement. We take pride in the positive experiences shared by those who have engaged our services, showcasing the impact of visual storytelling on their events.
Many clients have noted how our graphic facilitation not only made their presentations more engaging but also helped clarify complex ideas. Testimonials often highlight the professionalism and creativity of our team, affirming the value we bring to corporate communications.
Booking Process
Engaging The Visual Storytellers for your event is a straightforward process designed to ensure a seamless experience. Our booking system allows clients to easily schedule consultations and secure our services for their specific needs.
Once you reach out, we’ll discuss your event objectives, the type of visual services required, and any specific themes or messages you want to convey. This collaborative approach helps us tailor our offerings to provide the most impactful visual storytelling experience for your audience.
Our Impact
The impact of visual storytelling extends beyond mere aesthetics; it enhances understanding, retention, and engagement. Research shows that visuals can significantly improve audience recall and comprehension, making our services invaluable for effective communication.
Through our work, we aim to foster a deeper connection between speakers and their audiences. By transforming complex ideas into engaging visuals, we help organizations convey their messages more clearly and memorably, ultimately driving better outcomes in meetings and events.
