Balmain Memoirs
A house that changed my life
It was while I was living in New York, parallel to my exhibition, that I first saw the ad for a Balmain house for rent. Perhaps it was the pink wall in the kitchen or the photo of the Italian-inspired, nestled-in front yard that caught my eye, but I knew this was where we would live for the next few years.
Little did I know how much of an impact this house on Darling Street would have on my life—or how hard it would be to say goodbye to the now eerily empty house.
When I finally had the keys, nearly a decade ago and freshly home from New York, I walked through the empty rooms of this Balmain home filled with doubts… It was expensive, it was old, the floorboards creaked, the neighbours were building, the stairs were crooked and worn, it smelled strange, and it certainly hadn’t been cleaned well. Could I really make it on my own? As an artist supporting two of my three children, a single mum?
Forehead furrowed, I walked upstairs and stood on the balcony, when suddenly I found myself smiling - I had a small harbour and bridge view! Wow! I would make it. I will make it! I would make it possible.
Days began with the early sounds of life—fresh bread and milk deliveries from 3 a.m. to the nearby cafés, and from 6 a.m., the wonderful aromas of fresh coffee, toast, and bacon. People chatted happily, dogs barked, some sat quietly with books, while others wandered into my Open Studio, curious about the colours. Sometimes they would spontaneously buy an artwork; other times, they would stay for a chat and tea, drawn in by my sign inviting them to just come in.
The days would often end on the balcony, herbal tea or wine in hand, looking out onto the now-closed cafés and the few remaining people walking their dogs. Occasionally, the scents of delicious food and Greek music would drift across the street from the nearby restaurant.
Here, I made many friends. Here, I started my art school, fell in love, and guided my children towards adulthood. Here, I farewelled friends and mourned their loss. Here, I watched my children move out for the last time, and here, I learned I would become a grandmother. This house witnessed so many of my breakthroughs and my growth as an artist. I sold countless artworks from this space and painted even more. I did make it here, as a full-time artist, no longer a single mum.
I found my feet in this lively suburb where life moves fast and loud, but within the walls of our Darling Street home, time slowed just enough for me to find myself.
Thank you, Balmain.
With lots of love,
Kirana xx
What's On:
Back by Popular Demand - 5 Week Adults Art Workshop
There is a new adults art class commencing October, create artworks within a small group of like-minded students over five consecutive weeks.
22/10/2024 - 19/11/2024 | Tuesday evenings from 5.30pm - 7.30pm
Cost: $460pp (GST INC) | All art materials included | Max 4 people per group
72 Saint Albans Street, Abbotsford
Can be booked suitable to your timetable, tailored to your needs and all ages.
Cost: $110 + GST | All art materials included
Final Notes
All the above are also great gift ideas for a loved one who would benefit from some breathing space and would love to try something new.
If you would like more information on any of these workshops or to book, simply reply to this email or contact me on 0448446466.
With lots of love,
Kirana xx