Eleanor Macnair
Eleanor Macnair
Press & Communications Consultant for Photography/Visual Arts
Eleanor is based in London, UK. As her twitter bio puts it, she works in photography for publishers and galleries; she also renders photographs in Play-Doh.
Linkedin
Website: eleanormacnair.com
Instagram: @eleanormacnair
Twitter: @EleanorMacnair
Photo © Kristina Svalgik
How did you get started in PR?
My journey into PR was accidental. My first job was as a photo production assistant in a fashion advertising agency in New York after studying English Literature at University. I moved to London after 2 years in New York and did a post-graduate diploma in journalism. After 2 years of working freelance and work experience placements alongside working in a shop to pay the rent I was offered a job in a PR agency, after being recommended by someone I had done work experience for. This was now many many years ago and it’s been interesting to see how PR has changed during this period.
How did you find yourself where you are now?
I spent one year in the PR agency, then I was lucky enough to get a job at Michael Hoppen Gallery where I picked up a good knowledge of photography. After 4 years there I wanted a new challenge and moved on to the National Portrait Gallery where I eventually became Press Manager. After that followed shorter stretches at Media Space (the photography space at the Science Museum which is sadly no more) and White Cube Gallery and a couple of publishers. Although I knew from my time at Michael Hoppen that I wanted to specialise in photography I was aware that I didn’t want to pigeon-hole myself and so picked up good grounding in the contemporary visual arts, the museum and heritage, and commercial sectors. Nearly 3 years ago I decided to go freelance. I had noticed a gap for PR help for photographic organisations, publishers and galleries and individual photographers who couldn’t afford a full-time member of staff nor for a PR agency. I don’t aim to undercut agencies at all – only provide a service where there is a gap and organisations may not have otherwise been able to afford PR. In turn this helps to get projects out there and in the long term, helps organisations/photographers to generate income and carry on creating and publishing and exhibiting exciting and important photographic work.
What do you specialize in and what are you currently working on?
I specialise in photography which means that there is tremendous scope in the projects I work on. I’m currently working on a new Foundation for Photography in the UK opening in autumn, some great new books for GOST Books – I’m particularly excited about ‘The Last Testament’ by Jonas Bendiksen, a number of exhibitions for a private gallery and a couple more for Magnum Photos.
You are a seasoned publicist and a talented artist, how do you manage both careers?
I never go on holiday! I’ve always enjoyed supporting artists/photographers – it’s one of the most rewarding parts of working in PR and becoming an artist has made me realise, more than ever, how much support can be missing when artists/photographers need it. Going freelance has allowed me the flexibility to do some juggling – I’m just very organised and write lots of lists.
What is most important in your work, both as a publicist and as an artist?
I think it’s communicating complex ideas in straight-forward language. With this I don’t mean dumbing ideas down but trying to express them concisely and creatively.
Where are your favorite places for business meetings or drinks with writers/clients?
I live in Peckham, London and there is a lovely coffee shop opposite my flat called Rosie’s which does the best Portuguese custard tart in London… so I often try to have my meetings there! I'm also close to Frank’s Cafe which has amazing views of London – so I persuade people there for meetings – before the after work crowds get there!
PR/Communications can be fast-paced and stressful, what is your favorite way of relaxing?
I often go for a run at the end of the day and weekly ballet class which I have done since I was a small child. PR can be consuming, especially when there is a busy project on and it feels like there are 24 hours a day emails. It’s so important to take time out, meet with friends and step away from the laptop. Something may seem like a disaster, but I’ve been through so many debacles in my time in PR that I know no-one will die. I take my job seriously but at the same time, maintain perspective.
What are you reading these days?
My treat to myself is a subscription to the New Yorker and I’m currently 2 issues behind! I love it though as the writing is just brilliant and I end up reading long form features on things I had no idea would interest me so much.
What are you listening on repeat these days?
Top secret, but I’ve recently had an REM retrospective at my desk!
What is the next art event / exhibition you're the most looking forward in the next months?
In terms of PR think perhaps the photography foundation but I can’t say too much about this at the moment. All will be revealed! In terms of my art work, I have a few things in the pipeline but don’t want to jinx them until all is confirmed… I keep my cards close to my chest – which is part of being a PR, knowing when to do the big reveal!
Self-portrait in Play-Doh, original photo by Kristina Svalgik