The Creative Collaborators: Subrina Kidd + Susan Dale

Join us as we explore the power partnerships that unleash extraordinary invention and ground-breaking artistic discovery, forging creative connections to last the long haul…

When freelance photographer, Susan Dale booked in for a hair appointment with texture expert, Subrina Kidd, it turned out to be a serendipitous meeting of minds. What’s followed is friendship, a deep respect for each other’s art and meaningful creative collaborations that explore mixed raced identity, diverse hair texture and unique personal journeys, with one magic moment ending up in the Financial Times (you’ll have to listen for the low down!). 

This dynamic is rooted in authenticity and freedom of expression to avoid stilting creativity through micromanagement. Going on set with the duo is free flow, there’s a plan in place (and a great playlist) but they aren’t tied to it, choosing to be open to where the narrative takes them, resulting in work that doesn’t just deliver on aesthetic but conveys a deeper story.   

MEET SUBRINA KIDD>>

MEET SUSAN DALE>>

Individually, these wonder women are also doing incredible things. Subrina starting her hairdressing journey aged just 12 (yes, 12!) at a Japanese salon in St. John’s Wood – an environment of inclusivity which opened her eyes to opportunity. Stints followed at Toni&Guy and Aveda, the latter Subrina praises as ‘good for her soul’ before a bold decision to go freelance, which sees her work with lifelong friends at The Collective and join forces with people like Jennifer Hudson and author Lemn Sissay MBE. 

Susan on the other hand, by her own omission, has had a convoluted career journey. Passionate about acting in her tweens to teens but ending up in the corporate world in private equity. A pull to photography, when travelling and exploring the world around her, led to a side hustle and the launch of HaluHalo, a platform for sharing stories that reflect the mixed race experience and its glorious diversity.  

Together over 55 minutes, they chat about that first chance encounter, being muses to each other, championing representation, and celebrating individuality. Empowering and enlightening, get ready for a drop of serious wisdom…