Tell us a little bit about your label (art) and what you do?
Guna Natural started when I couldn’t find the sorts of products I wanted in the market. I was looking for totally natural and non-toxic products which were high performance and were also a pleasure to use. I started making products for myself, then it grew as family and friends made requests. As active ingredients I use essential oils, botanical extracts and vitamins and for the bases I use butters, oils and floral waters. I make products for self-care, indulgence, for preventative skin care, and also to address skin concerns such as acne, pigmentation and sun damage.
What inspires your work?
I’m inspired by older traditions of skincare and perfumery. Most of the essential oils I use come from India, from a family-run shop that has been manufacturing oils and absolutes for 200 years. Many of these essential oils – such as rose otto, sandalwood, jasmine sambac, frankincense, tuberose – have been used for centuries. I’m also inspired by rituals of self-care and relaxation, and want my products to give people the feeling of being in a day spa, even if just for a few minutes each day.
What jobs have you done other than being an artist?
My academic and professional backgrounds are in the social sciences – Psychology, Sociology and Anthropology. I love working with people, understanding social problems, and collaborating to find solutions. I’ve worked on a variety of issues including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and education, inclusive education for children with disabilities and additional needs, as well as research and development work in India.
What memorable responses have you had to your work?
I love it when people tell me they wear less makeup because they’re happier with their skin.
One thing you can’t live without?
My dog. Although I guess one day I’ll have to…
What gets you up in the morning?
The thought of not rushing everywhere.
How would your best friend describe you in 3 words?
? I’ll ask her.
What is the next skill you want to learn?
Belly-dancing.
What is your dream project?
Taking a big old Victorian house and making it into a beautiful space with rooms for treatments, meditation, lovely outdoor areas, physic garden, books, lounges, and Guna products of course. It would cater for everyone and have initiatives for children with additional needs, the elderly, or other marginalised groups.
Favourite or most inspirational place in Sydney?
Nielsen Park for swims during the week
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?
What would you do if you weren’t afraid? Now go do it anyway.
What advice would you give to new, aspiring Makers?
Love what you’re doing because you’ll end up working all the bloody time.
And most importantly, what would your ultimate karaoke song be?
Bohemian Rhapsody or I Wanna Dance With Somebody
Guna Natural is now in store at Work-Shop Makery, 106 Oxford street Darlinghurst NSW