Faces of AWNY: Meet Lucy Foster

Lucy Foster is the Gallery Manager of D’Lan Contemporary. Originally a Senior Specialist in Fine Art at an auction house in Melbourne, Lucy moved to NYC for the job of her dreams.

How did you land your job in NYC?

Before moving to New York I was a Specialist at an auction house in Melbourne and it was through there that I met the team at D’Lan Contemporary. It has always been a goal to progress my career in New York City, so when the job came up I applied without hesitation. D’Lan Contemporary is the only gallery in New York that exclusively shows Australian Indigenous Art—Something I’m incredibly proud to be part of. As Gallerists, we have a very important role in ensuring that Indigenous artists receive the recognition and respect they deserve on the international stage. Engaging with American collectors is one of the many highlights in my role and I’m constantly blown away by their genuine interest in this beautiful art form. Time and time again, I’m met with the same response, ‘I just never knew this was a thing!’. I guess it proves that Australia has kept it as a local treasure for too long and it’s time to share it with the world!

What neighborhood do you live in, and why did you choose it?

We chose Williamsburg. It has a very Fitzroy/Northcote feel to it, as well as plenty of brunch spots, thrift shops and small creative businesses.

What do you do in your spare time in NYC?

New York has a plethora of mountains in the surrounding areas, so whenever the weather promises to be good we head to the snow! It’s our chance to escape the city for a weekend and get the wind in our hair. East Coast skiing always gets a bad rap, but we’ve had nothing but amazing days every time. I’m not sure if it’s because we’re just stoked to be here or because the winters here are longer and there are more options. Either way, we love it!

Lucy has made her way to the East Coast slopes for some winter fun.

What is your favorite NYC restaurant?

My mission in life is to try every Mexican restaurant in New York. And I’m talking about the places that only do one or two types of tacos. No Tex-Mex, only the real jam. Birria LES, Tacombi, and La Esquina are great for a date night. The Williamsburg establishment Birria-Landia is also a favorite. The taco truck is lit up in bright green like a beacon of hope when you get off the subway at Metropolitan Av. It’s hard to walk past it at night, but make sure you order their consommé!

Fave place in NYC?

Mexican food aside, my absolute favorite date night restaurant is Have & Meyer in Williamsburg. The wine list is like a novel, their truffle pasta is a dream, and the decor reminds me of a winter garden wonderland! To top the night off, you should definitely book a table at the St. Mazie Bar & Supper Club. If you’re in Midtown, I recommend going to Don’t Tell Mama. It’s a piano bar that belts out musical classics (think Annie, Chicago, and The Lion King) all night long. The pianist and bar staff are all Broadway performers, so the talent is insane. Be prepared to wake up with no voice!