Natalie King, curator, talks about 1970s Melbourne, cafes and art

Natalie King grew up among shag pile rugs and Marimekko drapery in Balwyn. Her grandmother introduced her to the Forum Theatre, she’s filled with hope by a Richmond rainbow and she is always seeking out the indigenous history of the city.

Your earliest memory?

My sister and I were almost like twins; we were inseparable, being just 18 months apart. I remember my first day of school and Nadine was going to kinder. We look different but we have the same voice and the same handwriting. Our home in North Balwyn had exposed brick and cathedral ceilings. It was a ’70s architect-designed palazzo with shag pile, a conversation pit and a rumpus room with beanbags. My sister and I had adjoining bedrooms with Marimekko drapery. We used to lie in bed and tell each other secrets. I grew up in a loving but conventional Jewish household and all my friends lived in Caulfield so I was forever on the No. 48 tram.