Nan Kempner, an American fashion icon, was a family friend. She was a woman who defined chic and spending time with Nan when I was little inspired me. I was fascinated by her collection of clothes and accessories, all colour-coordinated in her elaborate, Chinoiserie-papered dressing room. I would sit eating cookies on her dressing room floor as she would dress for dinner, and I would play dress-up. It sparked a love of clothes and beautiful fabrics for me. I have fond memories of the MET Costume Institute exhibits, storytelling expressed through high-end fashion, history, art and emotion. ‘China: Through the Looking Glass’ is one of my favourite exhibitions, I became lost in the combinations of lilac and soft titan green, vibrant reds, and the lush pinks referencing the blooming of peonies and peach blossoms. Then, there were the Bergdorf Goodman windows that revealed the magic of Christmas; the windows illuminated by the giant snowflake on 57th and Fifth Avenue live forever in my memory. 

Living in Sydney now, I have already had the most wonderful experiences here. I am currently being mentored by artist Antonia Mrljak, who has taught me how to let go and fly into my creative spirit. I treasure our relationship. I am deeply grateful to live here surrounded by the most astounding natural places and culture. I know that this energy will continue to impact my work as I create connections and continue my practice.