A Drink With…Penny Pickard

Penny Pickard is one of New Zealand’s only bonafide supermodels, starting her career in the 90′s and working solidly throughout New York, London, Milan and starring on more covers of Fashion Quarterly then any other model. Penny is now back in Auckland and was nice enough to chat with us.

What does being Naturally Spirited mean to you?
For me, naturally spirited means being healthful, resilient and optimistic.

Who were your female role models growing up?
Growing up my female role model was Joan Baez because I admire how politically engaged she is – I am not at all.

How did you get started in the modeling industry?
Glenn Hunt, the art director of Pavement magazine saw me on the street and I did my first ever photo shoot with them.

Any advice for young girls thinking about pursuing a career in modeling?
Get French and Italian Vogue and look at how the visions of the best photographers and stylists in the world are embodied by models.

What are your favorite memories/stories from shoots you have been on?
My best memories are of all of the cool models I’ve met and lived with over the years. Modelling is a great way to learn first hand about other cultures through all of the people you live with and meet.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
In 5 years I’ll be 36 so for sure I want to be a mum, and constantly learning.

Favorite places to eat in Auckland?
My favourite place to eat in Auckland is Middle East on Wellesley St.

Favorite places to shop in Auckland?
JB Hi-Fi.

Favorite places to go out in Auckland?
I don’t think I’ve been out in Auckland since I was 18.

If you weren’t living in Auckland, where would you be?
Northland.

If you had to dress head to toe in one label/brand what would it be?
Ann Demeulemeester.

Can you provide your top 3-5 images you have appeared in in your career and the reasons why they are your favorite?

Favourite images are: Stolen Girlfriends Club campaign, standing over
the water spout. I like it because it’s fun and sexy.

My Pavement cover. This was one of the first modelling pictures ever
taken of me, and it will always be one of my favourites…I’m laughing
at something my sister said. (Both of these photos were taken by Derek
Henderson, one of my favourite photographers).

The photograph of me holding the baby that’s in my N Model Management
portfolio. I love the composition of the photo and how the dress
looks.