Jane Mussared is Maggie Beer Foundation’s chief executive officer. She speaks with SALIFE about her favourite things in life, including art and her best way to unwind.
What does your idea of the perfect day look like?
It would be a Saturday, and it would start with the gym. I hate exercise, but it shakes out the grumps, and the social hit at coffee afterwards is gold. Then I’d ride my bike to the market and linger at the cheese tasting. Then maybe I’d head to West Beach to watch a softball game, have a quick swim in the sea and head out to a roast lamb dinner with friends or family somewhere … I love being cooked for!
What is a wonderful moment of kindness you have experienced?
I don’t think I have ever had a day that wasn’t blessed with kindness in some way. Jack at my gym greets me every day as if I weren’t there only yesterday. The old man who lives up the road sits out front when the sun shines and tells me it’s a good day. My sisters and brother check in with titbits. When I have worried about an issue all day, and our Foundation team solves it in an instant.
What is your favourite photograph?
I love this photo because my four “kids” are in the same place – and on the same page – a rare event. They live all over the world, so when we come together, it is creative and loud and precious. I love the photo too, because it captures the beginning of what has become my art wall – salon-hung and full of fun, colour, and life.
If you could own any piece of art, what would it be?
Oh, what a delightful thing to dream about. I would choose a Kaylene Whiskey piece, with Wonder Woman and Dolly Parton. But a Vincent Namatjira would be nice or a Barbara Hanrahan. I love art, and it is all over my walls. And, while I dream of expensive art by clever and famous people, I also love the extraordinary art of ordinary folk and friends.
Here’s $500. You have to spend it in the next hour – what are you buying?
Easy question! I would round up a friend or two or three, and I would book accommodation for a weekend in a regional SA town – Gladstone, Peterborough, Orroroo, Beachport or Ceduna.
Favourite restaurant or cafe?
My long-time favourite is Bai Long Store on Hutt Street. But for a quick coffee, I stroll to Pinco at the end of my street and feel rich and indulged.
What was the last TV show you watched?
Lincoln Lawyer. I’m up to episode 5 of season 4.
Favourite way to unwind?
I stitch. I find pre-loved fabric scraps, embroidery cotton that has ended up in an op shop, and I stitch. I stitch people or daisies or sometimes just random shapes. It’s relaxing, and my mind solves problems big and small. I never unpick mistakes (and there are plenty), and it just unfolds … always with music or a podcast.
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Last book you read?
One Hundred Years of Betty by Debra Oswald. Thoroughly recommend.
Last song you listened to?
Love Me Tender at volume – Elvis is my go-to love!
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