Mollie Barnes

We are really excited to have the opporunity to speak with this special "Modern Muse" - Mollie Barnes.  

Hello Mollie - let's start. 

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Where are you right now?

I am currently in my bedroom, laptop on knee, near the south coast of the UK. It’s raining (as usual!) and I am about to take my dog out.

What brings you inspiration?

My inspiration and drive comes in two forms: external, from my friends, colleagues, works I see, people I meet… and internal, which is the drive or passion to do what I love. The second is very dependent on mood, and is illusive. I’m lucky that I am surrounded every day by an abundance of the first!

Which part of your job is your favourite?

Learning about artistic practices directly from the artists, and supporting them where I can.

What colour describes you best?

I can only hope it describes me - yellow. It’s always been my favourite colour and I am drawn to it.

Are you in love?

In the conventional sense - yes, I am - and very honoured to say I have been for over 8 years with my partner. They are the kindest person I know. In a different sense, I am also in love with many people and practices around the world, and in love with the idea that I work with so many loves. I am in love with baking focaccia and the recent sun we have been having. 

What are you working on at the moment?

My focus at the moment is inclusive artistic residencies, and I am working on a collection of these around the world. I’m excited to share more when the time is right! I believe they are the ultimate form of curating to place an artist in a place that will best support them and their practice.

How do you define success?

In a lot of ways pride in what you do. In whatever way that comes. Pride can come from necessity of a job, love for it, passion, how it benefits other people… I think success is self defined, and for me it is being proud of what I do.

How would you describe yourself in three words?

I’d like to say: “Hard at work”

But “Watching Louis Theroux” is more honest right now.

Modern Muses that inspire you and why?

All for such a variety of reasons, with the primary ones being their support and kindness.

Georgia Powell

Liza Shapiro

Ferren Gipson

Nish McCree

Schwanda Rountree

Fatos Ustek

and so many more!

 

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Thank you so much Mollie for sharing your perspective and showing us a tiny bit of your artsy world. You truly are a Modern Muse!