Who is Chloë Powell?
That’s far too scary a question! On a purely surface level, I’m a creative producer and one half of the team that manages Radiant Pavilion: Contemporary Jewellery and Object Biennial.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I’d be Penny Modra of The Good Copy. Her passion for and depth of knowledge of English, and the sheer joy she emits to the world through this is, for me, beyond words. She’s also got a wonderfully warm heart and a cracking sense of humour!
Who inspires you and why?
Kind, honest, open-hearted people who treat others with respect and dignity, and who have the strength to stand up for what’s right. Sounds simple but it’s a rare thing to see in the world these days.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Encourage people to adopt the above values. And send everyone to therapy (I have a brilliant recommendation for a kinesiologist and EFT practitioner if anyone’s looking!)
Favourite holiday destination and why?
My holidays almost always centre around visiting my family and friends in the Netherlands. Having lived there for a time after finishing art school, it’s more a second home than a holiday destination. It’s hard to have your heart in two places but I wouldn’t change it for anything – that country and those people will always be a part of me.
This year I had a little extra time when I was over there, so could realise a long-held promise of spending a week in Paris with one of my dearest friends. Safe to say we ate our weight in cheese and pastry several times over but walking together all day every day through that timelessly beautiful city was a much-needed balm for the soul.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Heide Museum of Modern Art, no question. It’s my favourite place in Melbourne. I love the history of that place, and the sense of peace that resonates there. To say nothing of the art and gardens.
What are you currently reading?
The Far Away Nearby by Rebecca Solnit; she’s a wonder. I’ve just finished re-reading Helen Garner’s True Stories (again) – hers is a voice I return to when I need to feel grounded. I’m also re-reading The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion to and with a friend who lives in Amsterdam. We record alternate chapters and send them to each other; our own version of an audio book. We read to each other when we lived together years ago. It’s nice to be able to continue the practice now even though we’re so far from each other physically. It keeps him close.
What are you currently listening to?
I’ve recently discovered collaborative playlists on Spotify. A friend and I have been sending songs to each other. It’s a rambling conversation in the words of Gillian Welch, Leonard Cohen, Patti Smith, Neil Young…you get the flavour.
Happiness is?
Whippets.
What does the future hold for you?
It’s a busy and exciting time coming up with the third iteration of Radiant Pavilion. With 59 exhibitions, performances, talks, and street-happenings happening, I’ll have my days and nights full. It’s always a thrill to see the event unfold, and the incredible work and experiences the artists make. It’s also a wonderful way to catch up with friends from around the world who come to show and/or see what’s happening in contemporary jewellery. And then I’ll have a very big sleep!
Chloë is a Co-Director of Radiant Pavilion: Contemporary Jewellery and Object Biennial – which takes place across Melbourne: 7 – 15 September 2019. For more information, visit: www.radiantpavilion.com.au for details.
Image: Chloë Powell – photo by Pia Johnson