Q&A with Our Friend and Collaborator:

 Ronelle Pienaar Jenkin

Meet Ronelle Pienaar Jenkin, a versatile multimedia artist originally from South Africa and currently residing in our seaside town of New Plymouth, New Zealand. Renowned for her creative prowess, Ronelle has left an indelible mark with her captivating projects, notably as the artist and writer behind the legendary perfumed story of Mary Mary - A Ghoulish Tale of a Scandalous Woman.

Join us as we delve into Ronelle's artistic journey, inspirations, and the mesmerizing world she brings to life through her work.

 

Where do you find inspiration?

Films, books, travels and endless people watching. 

 

How has your personal style changed over time? 

I have loved experimenting with clothing in my younger years but my personal style has slowly become more distilled. Black is my staple. I don’t have the appetite or patience for mixing and matching colours. It’s a conscious decision in order to avoid option paralysis. Shape and texture are more interesting to me. Love bold jewelry though. The Danish jewellery company Griegst is an absolute joy. 

 

How has your style changed artistically?

Similar to my personal style, it has become more toned down. I now largely work in black ink

 

Can you share something you have created that you still love?

A playful little stop motion I made with my two girls.

 

Who do you consider the greatest legend within the past century?

Leonard Cohen for words

Diana Vreeland for style

Christopher Hitchens for intelligence

Miriam Makeba for spirit

Fran Lebowitz for humour

Archbishop Desmond Tutu for heart

 Image Harpers Bazaar

 

What image comes to mind when you think of Taranaki?

Ragged coastline and black sand.

 

Can you tell us what was your first perfume?

 Innocence by Chloe

 

What’s your favourite Virtue scent? When do you wear it?

Narcosis and Mary Mary I. I wear it all day, every day, all year round.  I do not believe in day, night time or seasonal perfume.  A scent must becomes a part of a person.  There is something wonderful  about a woman that  looks/smells like she has made a decision.