An independent digital magazine produced in Melbourne, Australia.
Follow Us
.png){kind=icon}
.png)
.png)
.svg){kind=icon}
The soft hum of Melbourne's winter settled over the city as I welcomed Michelle Owen into my office. The petite entrepreneur, dressed in a simple white shirt, black tailored pants, and understated Adidas Samba's, exuded a fresh-faced elegance. Her quiet sophistication was instantly engaging. As we settled into our conversation, it became clear that Michelle's journey from high-flying global DJ and music producer to an art enthusiast supporting local photography artists was nothing short of fascinating.
Like many female creative entrepreneurs, Michelle and I bonded immediately over our mutual love for art and a steaming cup of herbal tea – a necessity in Melbourne's chilly weather. We delved into her experiences, from the glamorous highs of her DJ career to the more subdued yet equally fulfilling work with Almost Real, the online gallery and creative platform she founded. This platform has become a beacon for fine art photography and visual arts, showcasing the work of emerging artists with an emphasis on authenticity and emotional resonance.
Michelle's story took an exciting turn recently with her fun yet brief encounter at Australian Fashion Week. She accompanied her partner, the incredible swimming champion and Olympian Michael Klim, on a business trip to Melbourne. Amid the hustle and bustle of their busy schedules, I was lucky enough to steal some time with Michelle for a genuine, girly chat about work, life, and everything in between.
Read on as we unpack career transitions, pivoting, and balancing life in between.
Michelle Owen (MO): It all started with my passion for music. I was a sound engineer turned DJ and music producer for 20 years but as time went on, I realised I wanted something more. Almost Real began as a media platform interviewing creatives and sharing their stories but during COVID it evolved into a gallery featuring photography and art from all over the world.
MO: It was challenging but exciting. Music was my life – I worked for Sony and Universal Music record labels, played in clubs like Watergate and Panorama Bar (Berghain) in Berlin, and travelled all over Europe as a DJ. But over time, I felt a shift. Moving from the stability of Australia to the vibrant, unpredictable world of Ibiza and later Berlin, I learned a lot about myself. The transition to art came naturally as I started Almost Real, inspired by the creativity I encountered in Berlin.
MO: It was definitely a leap of faith. In Ibiza, I was surrounded by amazing music, but the lack of a support network was tough. Moving to Berlin was pivotal – I worked at Beatport and was immersed in a creative environment. It taught me resilience and the importance of adaptability.
MO: Snaaps is an extension of Almost Real. I wanted to create something tangible, a product that encourages creativity. It's about capturing moments in a way that feels more authentic and connected.
MO: Embrace the unknown and stay true to your passions. It's okay to feel lost or unsure; it's part of the process. Learn new skills, stay adaptable, and don't be afraid to start from scratch. Most importantly, find joy in what you do and be authentic.
MO: Music is now more of a personal passion. I still DJ at Icebergs, Bondi and Mrs Sippy, Bali and curate music for events, which blends well with my work in art. The overlap between curating art and music keeps both areas fresh and exciting for me. Like working on Zoneout Festival and Noosa Eat Drink Festival.
MO: We're continually evolving. With Almost Real, we're focusing on brand activations and solo exhibitions. As for Snaaps, we only launched in December 2023 so we're expanding its reach and establishing new creative ventures between Australia and Bali. It's an exciting time, and I can't wait to see where it goes.
As we sipped our tea and shared stories, Michelle's warmth and enthusiasm shone through. Whether discussing the intricacies of art curation or reminiscing about the electrifying energy of DJ sets, her passion was palpable. She reminded me that the path to success is often winding and unpredictable, but it's the journey – with all its ups and downs – that shapes us into who we are.
So, if you haven't already, make yourself a cuppa or a cocktail, and take a few moments to bond with us girls over how we can transition into careers we may never have thought about before. Michelle Owen's story is a beautiful reminder that it's possible to create a fulfilling and dynamic career by following one's passions and embracing the unknown.
Written by Maria Uginovski
For the full interview, listen to our engaging conversation on Youtube & Spotify.
If you're seeking that perfect print to add a little uniqueness to your space, head to Almost Real and find your perfect timeless art piece while supporting artists in original art.
Follow:
As the holiday lights twinkle, Casper Magazine invites you to sparkle with a twist. Your impeccable taste and loyalty have been the pièce de résistance in our journey of showcasing the crème de la crème of conscious living and avant-garde design.
This season, why settle for the same old carols and clichés? Let’s waltz into a world where sustainability meets style, and innovation dances with daring. Our curated selection of stories and brands is the perfect accessory to your discerning palette.
Consider this an exclusive invitation: Join our subscriber list for content that's as bold and cheeky as you are. We're redefining mindful living with a wink and a nod to what truly inspires.
So, pop the champagne and raise a toast to a holiday season filled with more than just good cheer. Here’s to a new year of turning heads and challenging norms, together.
The Casper Magazine Team ❤️
