Laws of Creativity tells stories, through images and words, which show that creativity is a normal – and integral – part of being a lawyer.

At first glance, law and creativity may seem like an unlikely pairing.

The rigour and routine of the legal world is far from the fluidity and freedom found in the performing arts or creative industries. Great lawyers are praised for their ability to apply past solutions to new situations, rather than their ability to divine novel solutions – which, for many, is the true mark of “creative thinking”. In the wrong hands, “creative lawyer” could even be wielded as an insult: a label for the transgressions of someone who forgot that their role in society was to follow and implement rules.

Laws of Creativity presents a different image. In this project, we celebrate creativity through the lens of the legal profession.

In every instalment, we introduce a talented contributor to the legal industry. Not all are practicing lawyers, but each has a strong connection to the profession. Our subjects are presented in portrait photographs, holding an object that reflects their creative outlet and captures what creativity means for them. Accompanying each portrait, we share the story of our subject – not as a linear biography, but by exploring a theme that resonates through their contribution to the rich interaction of law and creativity.

In telling these stories, we’re not seeking to glorify the creativity of our subjects or to present their creativity as a novelty among the legal profession. Rather, we hope these stories will show that creativity is a normal – and integral – part of being a lawyer.

Or just being human.