Who is Kate Davis?
Kate Davis is a multi-disciplinary artist working as a set and costume designer, director, visual artist and florist. She is the Co-Artistic Director & Co-CEO of THE RABBLE, an experimental performance company.
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I have a deep interest and calling to work in the Deathscape. My desire to do Death work does not sit separately from my current arts practice – it feels like an evolution of my practice.
Who inspires you and why?
My dear friend Marisa Purcell, who is an incredible abstract painter. Talking with her about process and creating art, is always deeply inspiring, supportive and grounding. And my child, Silver for constantly reminding me of the present.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
I find this question overwhelming – especially right now when the global energy feels so heightened and so fragile. I feel I am attempting to make a difference in a very, very small way through the work I make and creating space for others to share and develop their art.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Anywhere and everywhere. I love experiencing new lands, new worlds.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
To be honest, I haven’t been anywhere for two years! Before the life of lockdowns, I would take friends to galleries or to restaurants or cafes… But really, when friends come to town, we hang at home, listen to music, drink wine and talk!
What are you currently reading?
Nothing! So deep in work, that I can’t read. When I’m making a show, I find it impossible to read. I have a pile of books next to my bed waiting for me: How to do Nothing by Jenny Odell, The Believer by Sarah Krasnostein, The Chronology of Water by Lidia Yuknavitch, Assembly by Natasha Brown and Second Place by Rachel Cusk.
What are you currently listening to?
Everything on NTS Radio – especially Calm Roots with Alex Rita, and Sui Zhen.
Happiness is?
Being in nature, being slow, and being with those you love.
What does the future hold for you?
Who knows… But I would like to keep developing my arts practice, in particular my visual arts practice. I would love to spend more time with flowers; creating botanical sculptures, bouquets and funeral flowers. And also develop my calling to work in the Deathscape – discover its form and dimension.
Kate is the Co-Creator & Co-Director (with Emma Valente) plus the Set and Costume Designer for YES – presented by THE RABBLE in a world premiere season at Arts House from 1 – 10 April 2022. For more information, visit: www.artshouse.com.au for details.
Image: Kate Davis (supplied)