Dina Broadhurst

SYDNEY ARTIST DINA BROADHURST, OUR ROBE MUSE, blends Helmut Newton with Kim Kardashian, creating 'disruptively iconic' work. Her global reputation stems from large, desire-filled portraits that evoke introspection and growth.

Where are you from? How does your background and childhood affect your work? 

I’m based in Sydney, Australia, though I’ve always been drawn to travel, constantly seeking inspiration from different cultures and exploring how people live and interact. My background is Italian-Australian, and I grew up in a warm, family-oriented environment that was both open and nurturing.

My childhood was filled with outdoor adventures and the freedom to express myself. Rules were relaxed, and there was a sense of harmony and individuality. I spent a lot of time in my own little world, dreaming and creating without pressure, which gave me the confidence to explore and be curious. I always felt free to be myself, and that sense of authenticity and fearlessness deeply influences my work today.

When did you start playing around with photography and what and who inspired you to go down this path? 

I’ve always been drawn to photography because it captures memories—moments frozen in time that can tell stories or spark emotions long after they’ve passed. That magic fascinated me and led me to study photography at university.

In the darkroom, I discovered the beauty of imperfection. Mistakes in the development process created abstract and mysterious images, offering new ways to interpret and imagine. I hated wastage, so I started cutting and layering these “failed” prints to create entirely new compositions. This sparked a passion for repurposing and experimenting, and when photography became digital, the endless possibilities with color, scale, and layering captivated me even more. Photography became my way of storytelling, where mistakes turned into discoveries.

What (and who) is involved in the process of bringing your products to life?

I mostly work alone, though I occasionally have an assistant to help with lighting or capturing images. I handle all the post-production myself, from editing to retouching, and collaborate with my incredible French printer for the final touches. They ensure the colors are perfectly calibrated and the fine art prints are flawless.

Often, I take these prints and enhance them further with mixed media—gold leaf, paint, analogue collages, or even 3D elements. These finishing touches add depth and texture, making each piece truly unique.

What is your morning routine and how does a day in the life of Dina evolve? 

I usually start my mornings with emails and admin tasks, followed by coffee and a workout to clear my mind. After that, I dive into creative work, which could involve meeting with my printer, retouching images, or working on collaborations, commissions, or sales.

Afternoons are often spent in the studio, experimenting or shooting photographs. Some days, when inspiration strikes, I’ll work late into the night, completely immersed in the process. Every day is a balance of creativity and focus, which keeps me inspired and energized.

How have you cultivated an environment that fosters such creativity? 

My home doubles as my studio, and it’s a treasure trove of inspiration. Over the years, I’ve collected an eclectic mix of items—art books, vintage photographs, kitschy antiques, fashion pieces, paints, mirrors, crushed glass, glitter, and even discarded objects that catch my eye.

I’m drawn to anything with beauty or intrigue, whether it’s a used perfume bottle with an interesting shape, a piece of nature like shells or flowers, or luxury packaging. Each item becomes part of my creative arsenal, ready to spark an idea or transform into something new. This ever-evolving collection surrounds me with inspiration, making my workspace a reflection of my creative process—free, curious, and boundless.

How would you describe your personal style? 

I would say I’m quite simple and sexy without being over the top. I do love luxury items, which for me, double as art.

And lastly, something many of us don't know about you...

I'm actually very shy. People would think that’s absolutely laughable probably because I expose so much of myself and am comfortable being naked. I’m actually very guarded and very untrusting. I like being a recluse, I love it.

WITH LOVE,

ROBE LONDON