Who is Georgie Meagher?
A tall woman who loves art, crosswords, and yelling out the window at Melbourne’s erratic weather. I’m currently working in the best job ever, as Artistic Director at Next Wave.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
With boundless energy, call people out for their everyday sexism, racism and homophobia.
Who inspires you and why?
So many amazing women! Hannah Bronte, an artist who is part of Next Wave Festival in 2016. She is 24 and one of the most fierce, powerful, generous, smart women I’ve ever met. Lisa Havilah, Director of Carriageworks in Sydney is a powerhouse of a very different kind, equally generous and utterly visionary. And I’m always affected when I read Donna Haraway or Ursula Le Guin – their ways of thinking recalibrate my brain.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I’m trying to make a difference right now by bringing a diverse group of artists together and making their voices as loud as possible at Next Wave. If I could change the world – I’d put the artists I’m working with in charge.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
I’m discovering the beauty of Victoria as a relative newcomer, so Airey’s Inlet is my new favourite.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take then to, and why?
Abbotsford Convent is one of my favourite places. CERES is great too. But to be honest, it’s usually an itinerary based on eating and drinking. Start with a bagel at New Day Rising; a negroni at Cumulus Up never goes astray; and then roll home after an enormous soup from Shop Ramen.
What are you currently reading?
Lots of shorter texts and poetry as research for Next Wave’s online publication Worm Hole; The Saturday Paper on the weekend; and bits and pieces from Timothy Morton.
What are you currently listening to?
Grimes, Santigold, Drake, Dej Loaf, Lana Del Ray, Chairlift, Rihanna, Jeremih… and this playlist.
Happiness is?
A sunny weekend with a cryptic crossword, a big cup of coffee and no work to do.
What does the future hold for you?
Mayhem, rest, more mayhem, and maybe some gardening?
Georgie is the Artistic Director of the 2016 Next Wave Festival which runs 5 – 22 May. For more information, visit: www.nextwave.org.au for details.
Image: Georgie Meagher – photo by Kailana Sommer