What is the best thing that I love about my work?
Photography is not just a work for me, there are a lot of things that I love about it. First of all the possibility to communicate without words, to see with my mind, with my heart, with my soul…and not just with my eyes. I can stop time and make a moment immortal.
What is my idea of happiness?
Doing what I love. Always.
What is my greatest fear?
A boring and empty life and all kind of prison.
What is the trait that I most deplore in myself?
I am too instinctive and sensitive. I should understand that not everything needs a reaction in my life.
Which living persons in my profession do i most admire?
I admire so many artists that I can’t choose some names…but not only photographers. In general I love artists that are honest with themselves, with their art and their work. I like artists who don’t accept any compromise just for fame. When an artwork is authentic it means that the artist is also authentic and you can feel it.
What is my greatest extravagance?
One time I read that one of the secrets to being always cheerful is doing weird faces to themselves in the mirror. Then sometimes I do it.
On what occasion would I lie?
In general I am a very honest person and I always say what I think (maybe too much), but sometimes It could be dangerous because I could hurt people I love. Then sometimes I prefer to lie for them.
What is the thing that I dislike the most in my work?
I don’t like the competition between artists. Sometimes I think people criticize your work just because they are envious. If I see another beautiful work and also more beautiful then mine, I don’t have any problem to accept that, but not everyone thinks this way. Being honest with ourselves it means also to recognize the talent of other people and don’t hinder them.
When and where was I the happiest, in my work?
Two years ago I received a call from Antonio Biasiucci, a photographer that I admire a lot. He told me that I had been selected for his masterclass of photography “Laboratorio irregolare”, that‘ s still ongoing.
If I could, what would I change about myself?
I would like to be less empathic.
What is my greatest achievement in work?
When I get something on my own and when my photos provoke people emotions.
Where would I most like to live?
I would like to live in New York for a while, but I’ve got no roots. I’ve never been in the same place for a long time. I like travelling and to meet new people and to see new places, I really need it. Maybe that’s the reason why this period is so difficult for me. The world had to stop itself because of a virus and that’s the first time in my life that I had to stop myself too.
What is my most treasured possession?
Old photos of my family. They are very valuable to me.
What is my most marked characteristic?
People always tell me that I’m strong and determined.
What is my most inspirational location, in my city?
There isn’t just one inspirational location in Naples. This city is so magic, wherever you walk you can breath its power.
What is my favorite place to eat and drink, in my city?
To be honest I like eating and drinking everywhere. One of the most beautiful thing in Naples is the street food. You can eat and drink something outside for a little money and enjoy the city, the sun and people.
What books influenced my life and how?
One of the first books I read when I was a child is Anne of Green Gables. I didn‘t know anything about feminism at that time, but I was completely fascinated by that weird and strong little girl. She made me understand the importance of asserting your own voice.
It inspired me and even today it’s one of my favorite novels.
You Only Die Once. What music would I listen on my last day?
The song I would listen on my last day is Bandiera Bianca by Franco Battiato, wearing my sunglasses. Absolutely.
Who is my hero or heroine in fiction?
Anne of Green Gables.
Who are my heroes and heroines in real life?
I really believe that normal people are true heroes and heroines in real life. I mean that kind of person who fights everyday defending vulnerable people, who spends his/her time helping others and our planet. Every little thing we do in our life is important.
Which movie would i recommend to see once in a lifetime?
“La belle verte”, a French film directed by Coline Serreau. It’s the story of a different planet, somewhere in the universe, where people live in a perfect harmony…. and….no spoiler.
What role plays art in my life and work?
Everything is art in my life. It’s a way of survival in this world, so beautiful and terrible at the same time. Art is resistance. I can not imagine my life without it.
What do the words ‘You are the storyteller of your own life’ to me?
We have the right and the duty to decide our lives, to do what we love to be happy.
Who is my greatest fan, sponsor, partner in crime?
My father, definitely. He always believes in me, supporting me whatever I do.
Which people or companies would I like to work with in 2020?
I would like to work with important museums and art galleries and all the artists I admire
Which people in my profession who can make a real difference in my creative career would i love to meet in 2020?
I would love to meet Vanessa Beecroft, Valie Export, Sally Mann, Anna Gaskell, Sarah Moon, Elizaveta Porodina and many others.
What project, in 2020, am I looking forward to work on?
All my projects and my works are suspended at the moment because of the Covid emergency. I really hope to start again soon.
Where can you see me or my work in 2020?
On my website : https://www.ilariasagaria.com/
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilariasagaria/
What do the words “Passion Never Retires” mean to me?
The mantra of my life.
Which creative heroines should Peter invite to tell their story?
I would recommend you to invite Johanna Link, Maria Cristina Antonini, Loredana Parisi.
How can you contact me?
On my website and on Instagram.
Here follows a message of Peter de Kuster, founder of The Heroine’s Journey
Are you a creative leader or creative professional looking to develop your business skills and storytelling?
Amidst today’s uncertainty, it is more important than ever to reconnect with yourself and others, develop your creative business, and build your story. Dive deep into your unique business style and areas for growth with the coaching of Peter de Kuster.
IS THE HEROINE’S JOURNEY COACHING FOR YOU?
You are a creative leader or creative professional who is interested in developing yourself, your business, and your story.
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You are aware that there are no quick fixes. Learning is a journey that works when you are fully committed to it. Coaching can bring awareness and help you navigate, but in the end it’s you who is in charge of your growth.
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You want to learn more about how to resource yourself, learn about blind spots, and get feedback.
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You are curious and want to engage in online learning.
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You are motivated to work in-between sessions on yourself (e.g. working on homework assignments that will help you develop new storytelling, skills, and behaviors).
WHAT’S YOUR COACHING QUESTION?
The Heroine’s Journey Coaching is all about your development. To make the most out of your sessions, we ask you to prepare topics to work on with Peter. These topics can serve as a starting point for further in-depth exploration with Peter.
These coaching topics typically resonate with the creative leaders Peter works with:
How can i tell the most powerful story possible about myself and my creative business?
How can I handle self promotion and marketing of my creative business better?
How do can I stay authentic and with focus when having difficult conversations with potential clients?
What are my creative values and how do I align these with my business values?
How can I manage my time and energy better?
How can I radiate confidence to my clients while feeling anxious inside?
How can I steer myself towards creative excellence without becoming rigid?
About Peter de Kuster
Peter de Kuster is the founder of The Heroine’s Journey & Hero’s Journey project, a storytelling firm which helps creative professionals to create careers and lives based on whatever story is most integral to their lives and careers (values, traits, skills and experiences). Peter’s approach combines in-depth storytelling and marketing expertise, and for over 20 years clients have found it effective with a wide range of creative business issues.
Peter is writer of the series The Heroine’s Journey and Hero’s Journey books, he has an MBA in Marketing, MBA in Financial Economics and graduated at university in Sociology and Communication Sciences.
PRICING
The Heroine’s Journey Coaching online sessions last 50 minutes and the fee is Euro 189 excluding VAT per session. The Heroine’s Journey Coaching is suitable for people at any stage in their career.
FAQ
Who can sign up for The Heroine’s Journey online coaching?
Creative leaders and creative professionals who wish to improve their business story and develop their business skills and mindset.
Should I choose 1:1 coaching?
Our The Heroine’s Journey experiences in world cities allow you to learn not only from the coach but also from your peers. For the small group coaching (1 – 4 people), we have selected important, relevant topics that we find regularly come up for creative professional: purpose, storytelling, creative confidence, self promotion, time & money and resilience.
If you would prefer to work alone or on a different topic, individual coaching is a better fit for you.
What language do we speak in the coaching sessions?
English.
Can I buy coaching for my organization?
Yes, you can! We support many organizations around the world with their coaching needs. Please contact us for more information.
Can I bring my own topics?
Yes, for individual coaching you get to choose your own topic.
Are coaching sessions confidential?
Yes. Peter will not share anything that is discussed in the coaching sessions.
Where will the coaching sessions take place?
Sessions will take place online (as per the times we live in) via an online tool like Zoom or Skype. Peter will let you know.
How do I sign up?
Send Peter a mail to theherojourneyquestionnaires@gmail.com to start booking your coaching sessions.
How do I pay?
After you send the mail, you will receive an email with a link to pay.
How do I book and reschedule sessions?
Once we’ve received your payment, Peter will contact you and book your coaching sessions. He will also support you with rescheduling sessions if needed.
What is your cancellation policy?
Individual coaching sessions can be postponed up to one week before the session.
The Heroine's Journey 