[2] Her talent in both illustration and poignant writings led to collaboration with writers Ethel Turner and Mary Grant Bruce, and acknowledgement from editors and publishers.

[2] Paterson had bylines as a freelance journalist with pictorial essays in publications such as Table Talk, Home, and the Weekly Times.

"[6] They were also active in helping charities during the Second World War, selling their pencil sketches at a fete in aid of Women Artists' National Service, held at Ola Cohn's East Melbourne studio.

[3] Paterson posed in her wedding dress for the 1926 Archibald Prize winning painting Silk and lace by William Beckwith McInnes, acquired by the Art Gallery of New South Wales[2] Paterson was the longest serving female office bearer in the Victorian Artists' Society, and a significant presence within the Melbourne Society of Women Painters and Sculptors.

[9] In 1950 Paterson was awarded the honour of Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, London (FRSA), showing her reach went beyond Australia to be known in England.

[10] With Hermon Gill With Ethel Turner On 8 August 1971, Esther Paterson died at Middle Park and was cremated with Anglican rites.