In the 1940s, René Gruau was celebrated for his line work and rose to fame through collaborations with Christian Dior, particularly the ‘New Look’. These artists captured not just the clothes but the attitude of the era, and laid the groundwork for fashion storytelling that remains influential today.
The illustrators at Flemington continue that tradition, capturing the changing face of racewear and personal style. Their sketches don’t just record outfits – they reflect the culture and character of the racing crowd itself.
Darby’s path to illustration wasn’t direct. Despite a childhood love of art, she gave it up at sixteen, believing it wasn’t something she could pursue. She worked in marketing and PR until after the birth of her second daughter, when she enrolled in a night class for fashion illustration and rediscovered her creative spark. Wedding portraits came first, followed by live sketching at events, which was, back then, a rare but growing trend. Today, she might be drawing at a race day in Melbourne, a milestone birthday in the Middle East, or a luxury brand event for Cartier. Once, she even illustrated guests at a private 50th birthday in Mexico, where Alanis Morissette was the entertainment.
At Flemington, she has worked in nearly every corner of the course. “I’ve been in General Admission, The Nursery, and The Birdcage,” she says. “I worked in The Park during last year’s Carnival and loved the mix of people I drew.
I sketched everyone from young girls excited to be dressed up to the entrants for Fashions on the Field in their incredible racewear. Every area has its own story.”
The Members’ Enclosure also brings its own atmosphere. “The first time I worked there, I arrived early to set up and saw people rushing in to get a seat. Now that we’ve been there for a while, I see them hurrying not just for a seat but to get in line for their portrait! It means a lot to be part of their day, and we never take that for granted.” She also enjoys the social side of the job – connecting with people and hearing their stories as she draws. “I do love a chat,” she laughs. “But I have to remind myself not to talk too much so I can get the job done!”
