Elle Föenander Joins Fashion Quarterly and Lexus for ‘Let’s Talk: What Drives You?’

Fashion Quarterly, in partnership with Lexus New Zealand, hosted an intimate edition of its Let’s Talk series, bringing together three influential women to explore a deceptively simple question: What drives you?

Held at The Hotel Britomart and moderated by Fashion Quarterly Editor-in-Chief Sarah Murray, the evening brought together iconic fashion designer Karen Walker, Auckland Design Week founder Jen Jones and gallerist Elle Föenander for an open conversation about the experiences, motivations and values that have shaped their respective careers. The panel explored what it means to build a creative career in fast-paced environments, from navigating setbacks and uncertainty to maintaining a sense of purpose while continuing to evolve. Rather than focusing solely on professional achievements, the conversation offered a more personal look at the experiences and mindset shifts behind each speaker’s journey.

As a gallerist and director of Föenander Galleries, Elle brought a perspective shaped by her work within New Zealand’s contemporary art landscape. Her participation reflected the broader themes of the evening - the importance of curiosity, creative conviction and remaining open to new possibilities while building something with purpose.

The conversation also highlighted the different ways creativity can manifest across industries. With perspectives spanning fashion, design and the visual arts, the panel demonstrated how seemingly different creative fields can share common challenges and motivations: taking risks, responding to change, learning from setbacks and finding the momentum to continue moving forward. Hosted in the intimate setting of The Hotel Britomart, the evening encouraged guests to reflect on their own sources of motivation and the experiences that have influenced their personal and professional paths.

For Föenander Galleries, Elle’s participation in Let’s Talk: What Drives You? offered an opportunity to bring the perspective of the contemporary art world into a wider conversation about creativity, leadership and purpose. The event formed part of Fashion Quarterly and Lexus New Zealand’s ongoing Let’s Talk series, which creates space for candid conversations with women whose work and ideas continue to shape New Zealand’s creative landscape.

Photography: Holly Sarah Burgess, katienicoleraee
Creative Direction: Georgia Bramley