What does having “a room / studio of your own” mean to you at this stage of your life? And how has having your own studio shifted the way you work?

It was a major milestone for me to have a studio space outside of my home again. It felt like both a return and a resolution to the heart of what I do and my overall vision for it. Having a dedicated space away from distractions allows for complete focus and intimacy with the work. My only accompaniment is music, which has become a really important part of the experience for me.

What’s a morning ritual that helps set the tone for your day?

It’s very health-oriented, but I always swish my mouth with bicarbonate soda and then drink apple cider vinegar water first thing in the morning for pH balance.

Do you feel that your textile practices — weaving, knitting, mending — have evolved over time? If so, what has influenced those changes?

Very much. Everything is rooted in a love of making with my hands; however, one’s relationship with creating naturally evolves according to the circumstances of your life at any given time.

I started off making knitted wearables and documenting concepts around identity with my friends through video and photography. It was very fun, colourful, and lighthearted. I liked the idea of exploring textiles as a form of skin or layers of experience.

I was originally taught to knit as a form of therapy to help adapt to my new environment after immigrating to Australia in my mid-teens, so I think it was natural to relate the medium to identity, conflict, and nuance.

After that, I studied hand weaving for two years at the Hand Weavers and Spinners Guild, which taught me a lot about formalising and organising my process. Weaving makes me feel connected to the history of the world. It has strengthened my inner voice.

Rachel wears Pointelle Half-Sleeve Top Black

Which part of your making process do you enjoy the most right now?

Since my first solo exhibition at China Heights Gallery in June 2025 - which consolidated so much of my vision and allowed me to view my practice from the outside - I have really enjoyed exploring varieties of silk and metals as the primary materials in my work.

There’s infinite potential, and combined with technical experimentation, it can feel a little scary but highly enjoyable discovering what happens with the right combination. As I work towards my next show, I’m excited to see what unfolds.

Is there a type of music, setting, or ritual that helps you get into a focused creative state when starting a new project?

I love listening to albums or compilations. My husband and I really enjoy compilations curated by Charles Bals, so I often put them on in the studio. A new one we’ve been enjoying is titled Neon Castle.

What are you looking forward to in the next year — either personally or creatively?

My husband and I are finishing an album and expanding our family. I’m also working on a new body of work for my next show. It’s going to be a busy year!

Rachel wears Scoop Neck Tank Top Espresso

You’ve been working as a model since a very young age, and now you’re also a mother, artist, and business owner. Do you feel your career has been a natural transition or progression? What has helped you sustain such a long career while still working actively as a model?

I guess it seems natural, but there have been many times where the next step hasn’t always been obvious. The fashion world is constantly evolving, and it’s not the most forgiving. It has probably taught me most to be resilient and not take anything for granted. Personally, I like variety, and that’s why I’ve explored so many outlets of work and creating. Perhaps life is too short to only work one career at a time!

Is there anything you’ve learned from your modelling work that you now apply to your art practice?

Community is so important - nurturing your relationships and genuinely caring about people. Talent is nothing if you don’t respect others, and yourself.

What helps you switch off after a long day — do you have any grounding routines or rituals?

I love going to the beach near my home at any time of the day.

What are your favourite places in Sydney? (bars, restaurants, parks, beaches, etc.)

Bilgola Beach in Sydney’s Northern Beaches — stunning and private.

Cafe Brazil on Bondi Road for a casual South American-style steak and rice plate.

Jugemu & Shimbashi in Cremorne for authentic handmade Japanese soba noodles and okonomiyaki cooked in front of you.

Kinokuniya for afternoon browsing and reference inspiration.

What’s on your summer watch or reading list?

I love the Philip Marlowe detective series by Raymond Chandler. I’m thinking of reading them again.

Rachel wears Pointelle Half-Sleeve Top Cream

Lastly, are you excited for the new year? And what are you carrying forward into 2026?

Very excited, and a little intimidated - by the year ahead! I’m leaving behind (as best I can) the tendency to plan too far ahead or control outcomes. I’m carrying forward a more fluid attitude and a reminder to rest, remembering that consistency is more important than volume.

Rachel wears Pointelle Half-Sleeve Top Black and Drawstring Midi Skirt White

Rachel’s recent favourite Spotify playlist

Victoria's secret by Quiet Village

Love song by Olivia Newton-John

I've done it again - 2014 remastered by Grace Jones

Islands by Danny O'keefe

Seabird by Alessi Brothers

No lie by John Makin & Friends

Vacation Day by Passion Theatre

Love the way you love me by Marti Caine

Glued to the spot(45 version) by Cheryl Glasgow

Zanmi Kanmarad by Cladette et Ti Pierre

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Find more of sounds of the playlist here.