About ‘me’
1. I am the author of three books: The Bathers Pavilion Cookbook, published by Ten Speed Press and One, published by Murdoch. Colour, my third book is due to be released in England and Australia in October or as they say in time for Christmas. My photographs appear in One, Movida’s Guide to Barcelona, a great guide book by Frank Cammora, and Colour. Some have also appeared in various magazines.
Based in Sydney I’ve studied Dress Design and Fine Arts (BFAHons) - Painting major and Drawing Honours, believe in a balanced life, working for a living, and have a passion for experiencing new places, mostly off the well beaten tourist path. India, Bhutan, Cuba, Ethiopia, Syria, Iran, Jordan, Namibia, Vietnam, Laos and the Bali of old are some favourites.
I’ve been a Fashion Editor for Vogue and Cosmopolitan, Art Director/Stylist for film and stills, started a film production company for television commercials-The Film Business, the first small hotel in Sydney-The Russell and a restaurant and cafe on the beach at Balmoral-The Bathers Pavilion.
I’m happiest with a camera in my hand or when creating or making something, anything, this includes writing. I love my work as a home making consultant, cooking, do the occasional restaurant review, am a creative mentor, and volunteer guide working with children at the Art Gallery of NSW. My garden both frustrates and surprises, I wish I painted more often, know yoga is good for you, and am a once-in-a-blue-moon inspiration to my three grown up children. I learned to love unconditionally because of them.
I enjoy markets, value pottering without lists, and have learned that asking for help is easy once you try. I find the scent of gardenias and tuberoses irresistible, peonies sublime. Adore the smell after rain, the sound of a brush passing over canvas, and anything handmade. Inspired architecture is something I have crossed the world for, and will again. The click of my knitting needles feels like meditation, while photography keeps me fresh. I’ve been told I smile as I click.
My greatest luxury is a cup of tea in bed. Books and textiles are incurable addictions. I love being a woman, making a home and having the capacity and opportunity to love. I’ve learned from my mistakes - they’re worth their weight in gold, valuable lessons. There will be more to come. I feel glad I failed to learn how to sky dive, am frightened of snakes, roller coasters and heights.
If I think about the life I am now living I feel content and privileged – not too much of anything and not too little either. I believe in fate, the pursuit of beauty, and enjoying life by living in the present.
