Please fill us in on your background?
I am an architect and artist and work in various media. Having taught design and drawing at the NMMU School of Architecture for 21 years, I now run an Art & Design studio with my husband in Walmer, Port Elizabeth. I am passionate about developing creativity in all its forms. I teach art and run creativity workshops and am also busy with research towards a PhD that focuses on understanding the non-rational aspects of the creative process.
Why do you think that you were chosen as a PPC Imaginarium judge?
I'd like to think it is because I am multi-disciplinary; having had experience in the design world, the art world and the educational world.
What is the professional achievement that you are most proud of to date?
I was selected as an international adjudicator for the Namibian Institute of Architects Merit Awards in 2008. I am also really proud of the fact that I extracted myself from academia and dared to open my own Art & Design studio. I am living my dream!
What excites and inspires you about South African creative talent?
I love the fact that South African designers are rooted in tradition, but are not slaves to it. I see artists and designers working with spontaneity and honesty as they acknowledge the local context, but strive to interpret it in a highly personal way.
Any advice for the PPC Imaginarium entrants?
Be honest, be open and dare to make mistakes!