Floral sculpture artist Sky Allen reveals her favourite moments in life ahead of her Nature Festival event, The Living Table, at Esmay.
What does your idea of the perfect day look like?
My perfect Adelaide day starts with an early morning Brownhill Creek walk with my Mini Schnauzer where we can both dip our toes in the creek and hopefully see some entertaining native birds. Then some quality time in my art studio getting into my creative flow with a sculpture. For lunch, a group picnic outing somewhere like Heysen’s The Cedars at Hahndorf is the perfect combo of art, garden, and a lovely hills drive for me. If you haven’t been to The Cedars since the new building recently opened you must! Perhaps then a cheeky stop at the Scenic Hotel for a beverage with a view on route to some late afternoon fun with my nieces in their swimming pool. And finally we enjoy some natural Coffin Bay oysters and Lincoln kingfish on my sister’s deck looking out over Black Hill at golden hour.
What is a wonderful moment of kindness you have experienced?
Over the past 18 months I’ve had successful treatment for breast cancer. The many small moments where people went beyond their job description to help me navigate the medical system, provide insider advice, or found me an empty hospital room for a proper night’s sleep have really stayed with me. When you are feeling vulnerable those kindnesses that go beyond someone’s strict professional role really make a difference. I tip my hat to the care professionals finding a way to offer these moments in a stretched healthcare system. Ladies over 40, this is your sign to book your free mammogram today as my cancer was caught by pure chance and wasn’t externally detectable.
What is your favourite photograph?
A photo of the Port Lincoln coast at golden hour. This was an impromptu candid snap of my folks at the end of a commemorative family event. When I look at this photo it evokes so much of my childhood growing up on Eyre Peninsula, I am transported into the afternoon light and the smell of the sea and appreciation for my family.
If you could own any piece of art, what would it be?
Australian artist Tracey Deep’s wall sculptures are compelling. And a sumptuous large scale Brett Whiteley harbour landscape would be pretty special to look at every day.
Top restaurant recommendation?
Esmay is a standout opening of the last year. Emma Arronsten has created a beautiful interior experience to complement Alanna Sapwell’s delicious menu. I’m lucky enough to be creating edible floral sculptures for a special Nature Festival lunch on Sat 10th October at Esmay. There are still some tickets left so join us if you haven’t experienced Esmay yet!
What was the last TV show you watched?
I’m late to the party but have recently really enjoyed all three seasons of Shrinking. I love how the characters celebrate each other’s quirks and foibles, plus its very very funny, and Harrison Ford is iconic.
Last book you read?
After being a voracious reader as a child I am terrible at finishing books in adulthood! Recently I have at least started Nora Heysen: a portrait by Anne-Marie Willoughby to learn more about the first woman to win the Archibald Prize and also official female Australian war artist.
Last song you listened to?
I’m deep in the nostalgia of Ben Fold Five as it’s the 30 year anniversary of their early album. It’s transporting me back to feeling like my teenage self again.
Sky Allen is a floral sculpture artist who has created installations for venues and events including Restaurant Botanic and Harvest Rock Festival. She is participating in multiple events at this year’s Nature Festival SA, which is on until October 11.
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