by Carla Caruso

If you’ve spotted a colourful, retro Kombi parked at your Adelaide Park Lands, likely Joanne Roomes is responsible.

The van brings together two of Joanne’s loves: coffee and art – the latter of which often has a sustainability theme.

We spoke to the city resident about her funky venture and where she might be popping up next.

Hi, Joanne. Please tell us about how you came to be ‘Lady With Van’, combining your passions for art, coffee, and retail.

My favourite artist is [Austrian painter] Gustav Klimt. My original business name was ‘The Unconventional Artist’.

But after a few glasses of wines with friends, I discovered a new picture that he had painted, Lady With Fan. And it was just a great take for my business name, Lady With Van – simple and easy for people to remember

Your van has popped up at Marshmallow Playspace in Pelzer Park / Pityarilla (Park 19) and Victoria Park / Pakapakanthi (Park 16), among other parks. Where can people regularly find you?

I was a regular at Marshmallow playpark [in Park 19] most Sundays, but due to competing demands, I have not been for a few weeks.

I regularly go to the Cars and Coffee event at Tonsley, from 7am to 9.30am, on the third Sunday of the month, and the Old Spot Market [Salisbury Heights], the fourth Saturday of the month.

I also have regular customers, with annual events, including a few city councils, schools, and sports associations – although, I am hoping to return to Marshmallow [Playspace] again soon.

I am lucky that I also get support from the Duke of Brunswick Hotel [in the city], which displays my art.

Can you tell us what inspires your art?

I love combining the unusual and using different mediums. I tend to gear towards natural subject matter. I love the use of colour, gold- and silver- inspired, Mudambi art, Klimt, and Picasso.

What was your work background before you had the coffee van and sold art?

I have always done some sort of art, either painting or pottery. I ran a few successful businesses with my husband in the UK before moving to Australia. I have just returned to working for the SA government part-time too. 

What keeps you busy when you’re not running the coffee van?

Art, work, house renovating, and being a grandma to two gorgeous grandsons!

Do you have a favourite park in the Adelaide Park Lands, and why do you love it?

I love Marshmallow playground [in Park 19] and the area around it. It’s fantastic for families and local residents, with barbecues, tennis courts, bike ride access, and the lovely play park.

I live near Park 21. I love the stretch between Sir Lewis Cohen Drive and the tram stop. Veale Gardens is beautiful all year round. I also love Victoria Park [Pakapakanthi - Park 16]; such a great space.