Postcards from a dear friend…

Today is International Womens Day. I’ve spoken previously about how very few people in this world stand out as one singular point of admiration and aspiration for me. There are a lot of women who do influence me in different ways, but all in some small manner unique to their spirit and accomplishments. The women who influence me most are those in my immediate and extended family – my mother, grandmother, friends; and last year I went into detail about my sister.

This year I feel the need to mention the lovely Hannah-Rose. I first met Hannah at fashion week in 2010, introduced by the wonderful Vanessa Jackman*. I remember her being totally vivacious, excitable, and articulate beyond her young years. I later found out that she was several champagnes down that day (and yes, she is even MORE articulate before the bubbles). Prior to my first adventure into fashion week I had been working at a neuroscience research institute in an office working on a couple of neuropsychology research projects. My life felt stilted. I had studied for four years and completed an Honours thesis to get there; I felt that was where I was meant to be. I had met some nice people, who were incredibly welcoming to a naive post-grad who had just moved from Brisbane. But they weren’t “my people”. Hannah was like a breath of fresh air. She spoke my language. And what’s more, she spoke it better than me. A lady four years my junior has become not only one of my most treasured companions, but also somewhat of a mentor. She is indescribably knowledgable on the widest range of topics, and is passionate about everything she discusses. She is also one of the most genuine people I’ve ever met in my life. She is nice to everyone, and sees the best in them, and actually really means it when she gives you a compliment – she truly makes you feel like you’re the most highly valued person around. Also, she sends me beautiful postcards when she goes overseas – win!!

Hannah there is so much more I could talk about, but I feel like people would get bored…. Paris, Japan, poetry, China, New York, lavender and rose flavoured anythings, Paris, coat structure, friendships, the hard times, the good times, Paris, Sofia, Scarlett, Shia, any royals past and present, long lost family, terrible 90s music, Paris… and the general wonderousness of shared joy in this world. You are a highly influential, inspirational, and cherished person in my life. Thank you.

P.S. Let’s make like Cézanne and astonish Paris with an apple.

*Vanessa is also someone who has greatly influenced my life. I spent one single afternoon with her. Total time I think lasted about 2 hours. But she was the person who put me back on my creative road through life, by inspiring my photography with one single tip, and introducing me to the people who would help shape me over the following 3 years (and many more to come I would say). She rescued me from my monotonous office life and my sadness caused by a confusion of why my “on-track life” was utterly unsatisfactory – and I’m pretty sure she has no idea. So to you also Vanessa, thank you.