Who is Isaac Lummis?
A Melbourne based Costume designer and occasional maker, sometimes runner and a weekend cook.
What would you do differently to what you do now?
I would probably be a dietician or a nutritionist. Something to do with food, health and wellbeing.
Who inspires you and why?
That is a hard question… it changes all the time. Recently I saw costume designer Sandy Powell talk about her life, work and design processes at ACMI. I suppose I found that very ‘inspiring’ and somewhat affirming of my own design processes. I guess I’m just inspired by anyone who has immense amounts of talent or skills, be it dancers, musicians or specialist artisans and makers.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Again, hard question… there are so many issues that need tackling. We need to focus on renewable energy sources like solar, wind and tidal. We need to seriously reassess our modern diets in an effort to prevent metabolic disorders. We need to stop this ridiculous ‘us and them’ mentality that seems to be pervading our society. But I guess if tackling the big issues is a little daunting, we could all just try doing one nice thing for someone every day… that would definitely change the world.
Favorite holiday destination and why?
I’m going to say New York City. Just because it is such an exciting place to wake up in. There is so much to see and do and taste! The fabric and trim shops in the garment district are mind-blowing. Plus, there is always great theatre to see.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Well, most visitors come to town when one of my shows is on… so more often than not, I’m usually taking them to a theatre! My elderly grandmother, who visited from Perth last year to see a show I’d worked on, was rather gob smacked when I lead her into the State Theatre to take her seat.
What are you currently reading?
Tim Spectors The Diet Myth: The Real Science Behind What We Eat. Currently I’m very interested in health, nutrition and understanding our gut microbes.
What are you currently listening to?
The entire back catalogue of Dusty Springfield in preparation for Dusty which opens in November. I’ve always been a big fan, but this is the perfect excuse to immerse myself in her music again.
Happiness is?
Having a day off! Ideally it would start with a sleep-in and a leisurely brunch. Perhaps a walk along the river, exploring the Prahran markets, and then an afternoon of cooking. Followed by an evening at home with friends, good wine and dinner.
What does the future hold for you?
Who knows, if I could see into the future I’d probably be a very rich man.
Isaac has designed the costumes for the Victorian State Schools Spectacular – to be held at Hisense Arena on Saturday 10 September 2016. Tickets can be purchased at: www.ticketek.com.au For more information, visit: www.education.vic.gov.au or www.facebook.com for details.
Image: Isaac Lummis (supplied)