Who is Victoria Hynes?
A Sydney based visual arts writer and editor. I specialise in writing about contemporary Australian artists and particularly love shedding light on little known or undiscovered yet highly talented artists and craftspeople.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I believe that we learn from all the supposed mistakes and detours in our lives, so probably nothing. Hopefully the big picture all comes together at the end like a beautiful tapestry.
Who inspires you and why?
I know it’s cliched, but it has to be His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A man of infinite human compassion. Also, every eco-warrior and environmental activist who fights the endless battle against global warming and climate change.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
To free our society from the scourge of domestic violence. Every woman and child has the right to feel safe in their own home. Much of must come through the education of the next generation of young men. This is happening, but not fast enough.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
It changes constantly but right now it would be the Ningaloo Reef on the north-west coast of Western Australia, where we travelled last year. To swim off the beach at Turquoise Bay with turtles, manta rays, reef sharks, rainbow fish and of course the gentle giants of the sea – the whale sharks – was an unforgettable experience.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
A visit to the Art Gallery of NSW’s new wing – the Naala Badu building – followed by a walk through the Royal Botanic Gardens and a ferry ride across Sydney Harbour. If there’s time for walk from Bondi to Coogee with a quick dip along the way, that would make a perfect day!
What are you currently reading?
Edenglassie by Melissa Lucashenko – both devastating and enlightening exploration of life in 19th century Brisbane through the eyes of an indigenous man from the Yagara nation.
What are you currently listening to?
After seeing A Complete Unknown two times, it would have to be the entire songbook of Mr Bob Dylan. Also Lana del Rey, who was introduced to me by my teenage daughter.
Happiness is?
Being surrounded by my kids, partner and family somewhere green (in nature) or blue (by the water). Good movies and good meals with close friends too. My happiest place is by the sea. In the Summer you can usually find me swimming in one of the rock pools around Coogee, in Sydney’s eastern beaches.
What does the future hold for you?
Just to be alive, healthy and creatively fulfilled.
Victoria is the Managing Editor of Painting with Stone: the story of the Melocco Brothers – which will be published by Longueille Media in May 2025. For more information, visit: www.longuevillemedia.com for details.
Image: Victoria Hynes (supplied)