People You Need To Know: Martina Calvi

After posting on Facebook finding creative types to work with I was contacted by Martina. She was super lovely and we decided to do small photo shoot. There was no way I could style this girl, she has a unique fashion sense and nails it on her own, so I had to think what I could bring to the table. Martina is probably one of the most enthusiastic positive people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. As she took us around to places around the CBD that she holds close to her heart, it become clear that I had to share this with others. I could write about her awesomeness and hopefully inspire others like she has inspired me.

Martina is currently at uni studying both a Bachelor of Design and Bachelor of Media (PR and Advertising). The reason for choosing two degrees comes down to doing something she loved.

'I always knew I’d study design. Art was my favourite subject and I was always making bags and things, selling some drawings etc. However I started writing for websites when I was 17 and really fell in love with the whole media and public relations scene. It seemed silly to choose just one of my two great loves in the end, so I did both’

Career wise Martina is happy to just see what happens, there is no dream job on the horizon as long as she finds herself doing something fashion, design or media related. Although she is just happy floating she remains motivated.

‘It’s easier to do things you love, so I try to find something to love in everything I have to do.  I think that’s my general philosophy for life, actually.  Everything is easier when you have a positive, loving attitude.’

Doing two degrees at uni would take up a lot of Martina’s time but she is constantly doing other creative things. She has volunteered at the MCA in the past, being a part of a youth committee which organised events for young people and giving free tours to the public. Now she focuses more on her writing which features in publications including Backyard Opera and All Ages Concerts Sydney.

But that’s not all Martina even makes bags (featured in the photos), clothing, hats, you name it! She surprisingly even plays the flute and writes poetry. She has been creative since she was little with her parents taking her to art galleries, providing art supplies and even a sewing machine.

After hearing about everything she does, I was interested to find out what she believes her main accomplishment is.

‘A huge personal accomplishment would be learning to just jump at any opportunity no matter what. Learning that sort of confidence has lead me to the strangest places; had me chatting with Anthony Lister, meeting Pharrell Williams, hugging The Kooks, writing a children’s book, publishing articles, seeing Yoko Ono in the flesh, guiding people in multiple art exhibitions, going to the weirdest parties and just generally feeling better about myself. All of these things are little accomplishments in my head, because a few years ago I would have been too nervous to go for any of them.’

She is inspired by people with really outgoing personalities, strange jobs and interesting clothing. They are usually people she has meet them at events, seen them on the street or stalked on instragram. But her main role models are her best friends, Alison and Anna.

‘Alison and Anna are totally different and yet I look up to them both equally. They are always making the most of things and enthusiastic about life. I think that’s the most important quality in a person.’

Martina is an inspirational person when it comes to her schooling and other activities but one of the main things I enjoyed about her was her quirky street style. She explains it as Tomboyish and bold.

 ‘Tomboyish, because I wear a lot of androgynous clothing and men’s’ hats but then I also have girly makeup, a feminine figure and a giggly sort of personality- so it’s a weird contrast. Bold, because the stuff I wear embarrasses my dad. Sorry dad.’

Where would you need to shop if you wanted to look as cool as Martina? Well her favourite online stores are Deja1990vu, Dontwantnoscrub and Estate of Mind.

‘Deja1990vu- it provides your entire 90’s hip-hop gear needs, and it’s crazily cheap. My boyfriend got a Tommy Hilfiger hat for a dollar. Dontwantnoscrub- I would buy every damn thing on that site if I could! There are a lot of unique one-off pieces. Estate of Mind- it houses some of the best designers from Australia and overseas. W.I.A, Emma Mulholland, you name it.’

She also let it slip that she loves a great rummaged through Vinnie’s and is crazy about loom bands.

‘I’m constantly hunting down op-shops for goodies. About 90% of my clothing is from op-shops. This is partially because I have zero dollars, and partially because it’s much more satisfying ‘discovering’ a perfect vintage jacket than ordering one of hundreds available online. 

I also recently became a bit obsessed with loom band bracelets, and I feel like a total child for it but they’re so much fun to make.’

Martina is honestly fantastic; she is one of those people who just bring joy to your life. Keep an eye out for big things from her in the future; I truly believe she will become an awesome design/ media powerhouse.

Photographer: Jem Richards
Model: Martina Calvi
Locations: Circular Quay Hungry Jacks- first time Martina has actually eaten HJs.
Museum of Contemporary Art - a place with history and where Martina has met many inspirational people.
Under the Harbour Bridge - a beautiful spot with contrast between isolation and the hustle and bustle of the city. Martina takes only loved ones here, so we were very honored for her to share this spot with us.