Image: Stephanie Defregger
Anke Richter is a writer, journalist and author of the exceedingly informative and best selling book, ‘Cult Trip: Inside the World of Coercion and Control’.
She speaks to Toi Ōtautahi about her creative practice…
How would you describe what you do?
I’m an international freelance journalist and non-fiction author – plus a networker and advocate for cult victims.
What was your most recent project?
My latest book “Cult Trip: Inside the world of coercion & control”, published by HarperCollins.
What project have you worked on that you’re the most proud of?
I’m still working on it 24/7 as an organiser: Decult is the first cult awareness conference in Australasia, happening at Tūranga Central Library in October. Very exciting that renowned experts from the US, UK and Australia are joining us to introduce cult recovery counselling in Aotearoa, and to shed light on high-demand groups in our midst. The two-day event with authors, activists, educators and film makers is open to anyone, so check out www.decult.net
What is essential for creatives to have in their life?
Time off (note to self). Supportive friends and whānau. Nature.
What inspires you about Ōtautahi?
All the small initiatives, co-working spaces and not-for-profits that have sprung up after the earthquake, and the young urban visionaries and artists who injected fresh blood into the old establishment. When the city broke down, our hearts collectively cracked open. That feeling of community and supporting each other through tough times is still alive.
What piece of advice about your creative work has served you well?
I’m a hyper-focused perfectionist with imposter syndrome (typical ADHD). Accepting that my readers will never know what I initially set out to achieve has taken some pressure off and helped me to make peace with perceived failures.
What’s the biggest misconception about your creative work?
That writing is easy or fun. It rarely just flows out of me and involves a lot of procrastination before I’m in the zone.
What Christchurch artists do you most admire?
I love Conor Clarke’s photography, Jason Greig’s etchings, Roger Boyce’s paintings, Tusiata Avia’s poetry and Audrey Baldwin’s performance art – the list goes on. Decult collaborator Auspicious Victory (Jaya Mangalam Gibson) has shown incredible perseverance while battling physical and mental health challenges as a Falun Gong cult survivor.
What artwork/piece of music/performance has taken your breath away?
Beacon Bloom playing at the Loons and The Church. Can’t wait to hear them at Electric Avenue in February!
What do you wish you’d have known about creative work when you were younger?
Freelancing is solitary work and can be isolating. Find your people who’re in the same boat and start a chat group. Join organisations that have mentors.
What’s your favourite hidden secret in Ōtautahi?
Hands down – Ōhinehou and its volcanic harbour. You can’t beat morning walks up Major Hornbr0ok, ocean dips at Naval Point, coffee at Spooky Boogies and sundowners at my local, Civil & Naval.