Always wanted to write for a magazine...

Q: I began this piece talking about your modelling, due to the fact that
it is how I was introduced to your creative world. Further
investigation though reveals quite the artist within. Have you always
been an artistic person Rachel? Do you have any idea where this side
of your personality comes from, or where it developed?
R: It definitely developed from my father. He was a hobbyist
photographer when he was younger. And I’ve always been into art. I
took it VERY seriously in High School. I was in AP art and pretty much
all I ever did was work on pieces and sleep. I didn’t even eat in the
cafeteria… I lived in the art room. I can give a super big shout
out to my AP teacher. She pushed me to develop my art into something
different and unique. She was straight up about weather something was
good, finished, unfinished, overworked, shitty; whatever. She would
tell us flat out if it was good or not. I LOVED that about her. No
other teachers have ever given me as “real” of a critique as she did.
I may stop modelling someday, but I will NEVER stop creating art. It’s
just part of my being.
Q: You have a particular passion for photography, and I think your self
portraits are very special indeed. You seem to treat yourself as a
resource expertly, again, it may be hard to answer, but how do you
view yourself as the model, when you are the photographer?
R: I just see myself as someone I can mould directly into what I’m
thinking of in my head. Or at least try. Sometimes they come out
great, sometimes not so much… but that’s the joy of self portraiture
- you never know. I like the gamble.
Q: May I ask what photographers have inspired you n the past, whose work
do you enjoy personally?
R: Anna Gaskell was a huge part of my initial inspiration as a
photographer. I got hooked on everything she produced. Her work is
mesmerizing and stirred something deep inside me. Especially because
her photos were in colour!! Ha-ha I had only worked with black and white
film at that point. Philip Warner is a close second. He portrays women
in such a way that is dark, but soft and sexy at the same time. Miss
Van, Jeremy Fish, Sylvia Ji and Stuntkid will forever be some of my
favourite artists as well…

Q: What sort of a photographer are you when working with other models? Do
you like to give direction if you have a strong idea in mind? Or do
you like models to bring their own ideas and improvise?
R: Both. If they are new to modelling, I try and work them into just
being themselves. Movement is a HUGE passion of mine. A lot of models
just stand still, but I love it when girls just let themselves go…
throw some music on and let them sing and dance. I’ve gotten some of my
favourite shots just from that alone. I also love to hear any ideas
from anyone else as well. I have so many going through my head constantly
that I really try and take a break from them whenever I can and just
let the model come up with something. I did that recently with a
model. We were going to wrap her in wire and she had this giant pine
cone in her car! She said we should put it on her head. I fell in love
with her after that.
Q: Have you got any projects in mind that you are particularly looking
forward to indulging in? Is having this artistic streak running
through you a good outlet for ideas or themes that you might not
necessarily want to feature in yourself, but create from behind the
scenes?
R: YES! I would love to create a series of some kind. I have many ideas
but I’m trying to really dig deep and make it worth something, as well
as be unique. I’m probably going to be using more film than digital as
the year goes on. I’m so tired of digital. Plus I’m not good at photo
shop so I just like to capture and image and leave it. With digital
there’s always that idea (for me anyways), that, “oh, that would look
better if I just did __”. With film, I’m usually much more satisfied
with the initial result.
Q: Speaking of art, I couldn’t interview you without mentioning your
unique and ever so interesting tattoos. Please forgive me, and I won’t
dwell on them as I’m sure you always get asked to explain etc. But
your pieces are extraordinary, and some of the most intriguing designs
I’ve come across. Could I ask who your chest and your key in
particular?
R: Oh it’s fine. If a day went by without someone asking about my
tattoos it meant I didn’t go into public that day. The key was done
when I was 18 - it’s from a Lamb song, “Cotton Wool”. The lyric says,
“If the key fits, just open the door”. It’s kind of an inspirational
thing for me to remember to keep going if it feels right and to follow
your heart. My chest piece is my favourite. Tom Yosenick at Fine Line
Tattoo in Garland, TX is the artist. I became obsessed with Phi when I
was in high school and ended up getting a nautilus with the Fibonacci
Sequence (or Golden Ratio) permanently on my skin! Weee! There’s a
really cool video on youtube called “Nature by Numbers” that sort of
explains it in a nutshell. There’s much more to it than just that…
but it’s a start.

Q: I’m forever fascinated with different people’s relationship to tattoos
and in particular getting them done. You have very distinctive
placement of your pieces, is there a certain reason for that? Would
you briefly tell us a little about what the experience of sitting in
the tattooist’s chair is like for you Rachel?
R: I do enjoy getting tattooed but I got all of the ones I have before I
was even 20. Honestly, I’m probably going to be covering my back
tattoo of the lotus. It will have to be a special day before I’m ready
to go into that project… But honestly, I didn’t even know
where I was going to get the key. Just kinda happened and I’m very
pleased with the result. And my chest piece - I didn’t feel like it
fit anywhere else on my body besides on my chest… I dunno. They
kinda just pick their own places. Its subconscious I think too.
Q: Do you have any plans for more art work being added to your body?
R: I am going to get the back tattoo covered. Other than that, I really
don’t know. I’m really for thinking through my tattoos and as much as
I want to get something goofy I just can’t bring myself to do it…
which is kind of strange considering how goofy I am… I have been
kicking around the idea of getting the planet that was bullied out of
our solar system, Pluto, with RIP under it. I realize they still
call it a dwarf planet, but it’s still kinda funny to me.
Q: I was wondering if you could shed a little light on some of your other
creative influences also. For instance what music are you enjoying at
the moment, or is there a particular book, movie or anything else that
is grabbing your attention right now?
R: Music is my life line. I really don’t think I could have survived
this long in my life without it… I listen to LOTS of different music.
Right now I’m really into Sea Wolf, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Pinback, Dandy
Warhols (because I’m about to see them soon!), PANTyRAiD, Depeche Mode
(always ha-ha), Primus, John Lee Hooker… there’s so many more too. I
can’t just stay on one thing for long…
Q: It’s only my opinion, but I think the standard of work you produce is
inspirational and aspirational for others in the industry. I know it’s
very different from person to person, but have you got any advice for
aspiring models today? What do you wish someone had told you starting
out, or what advice has served you the best in your career?
R: Thank you! Advice I have… be on time, communicate, be positive,
have fun, and let go! Art is about letting yourself go, I think. I’m
super good at that when it comes to a pencil and paper, but I’m going
to start working on that with my modelling as well.

Q: Before the questionnaire, I appreciate so many of your shots Rachel
and would love to own some to display. Is there anywhere people can
buy prints of your work? Or will there be in the near future?
R: I don’t have any for sale really right now except for at the GreyDUCK
Gallery in Austin, TX - there are prints from William Hundley and
Hector Hernandez’s show FUGUE STATES. I’m going to be working on an
edition soon. Although if you just message me about any you’d really
like, I can probably talk to the photographer to get a print for a
price they are comfortable with. You can also buy prints from these links:

Fox Harvard:

http://foxharvard.pixu.com/

http://foxharvard.pixu.com/photo/49891
Brian Hilson:

http://funkywhiteboy.tumblr.com/private/25325886059/tumblr_m5scy9MKWj1qczixw
Finally, could we please finish with Bernard Pivot’s questionnaire?
What is your favourite word? Carcass or banshee.
What is your least favourite word? Hussy.
What turns you on? A good sense of humour.
What turns you off? Someone trying to be dominant when they just aren’t.
What sound or noise do you love? I’m going to be cliché and say the
rain or the ocean.
What sound or noise do you hate? People grinding their teeth in their sleep.
What is your favourite curse word? Fuckhead.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Psychology and/or printmaking.
What profession would you not like to do? Nurse.
If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive
at the pearly gates? I really don’t know… He’d probably be speechless
that I was even there in the first place.

 

I’m sure you all took from this piece that I was humbled to feature Rachel here. There are a handful of women that I have described on this blog as “cool as fuck” and Rachel fits effortlessly into that group. I have to thank her for working tirelessly to get permission to use all of the images you see in this piece, as well as being open and willing to answer all of my questions. She’s someone I am overjoyed to have worked with and someone with which I’ll always have a desire to collaborate with again. I wish her every success in the future. For more information and examples of her stunning modelling work, head over to the link below.

http://blackeyedbonzai.tumblr.com

All images used were taken from Rachel’s blog with permission for use sought by Rachel herself. Credits follow in order of appearance:

1)      Mr.Glass

2)      Hector Hernandez

3)      Bheard

4)      Mr.Glass

I’m so very happy to be able to bring you my latest interview this evening. It’s a piece that did take quite a lot of time to get to this point, but the ride has been an honour, and working with this lady has been a joy. Not to mention a lesson in class and professionalism. The lady in question is Rachel Nicole, and for anyone that might not be acquainted with her work, I envy you this first introduction to it. I came across Rachel thanks to her friendship with Quinn Cornchip, an alternative model and budding media mogul that I had the pleasure of interviewing a few months back. Ever since I first laid eyes on Rachel’s work I knew I had to interview her and showcase her stunning imagery if I could. Since then the process has been thoroughly enjoyable, even the setbacks. It’s given me a great opportunity to immerse myself in Rachel’s work, and revel in collaborating with such an artist. And that’s the key word when describing this lady, artist. Everything she goes into is affected by her creative influence, and I know personally that she made me raise my game. I hope I did her proud and I hope you all enjoy what we talked about…

 

Q: Hi Rachel. I delight in rolling out the red carpet and welcoming you
to my blog. How are you today?
Rachel: Fantastic! Finally got a second to relax! It’s been a busy couple months!
Q: I wanted to start by saying how much I’ve enjoyed researching this
interview. You have quite a stunning body of work already to your
name, but could I ask where it all began for you? What were your first
forays into the modelling industry like?
Rachel: I actually started taking pictures before I ever
even had an inkling that I would be a model someday. My father gave me
a Nikon FM SLR from the 70’s when I was about 9 years old. In Junior High
I took a photography class and actually started taking more self
portraits than anything else. I learned how to develop my own film and
photos in the dark room. Took photography all thru High School &
Community College. Then I moved to Las Vegas Feb. of 08; I met a
really good friend who let me use his house as a studio. We shot lots
of girls who had never modelled for free because we both loved
photography. One day he told me I should get in front of the camera…
I was very hesitant at first… I ended up loving it! But didn’t start
taking it seriously until the last couple years.
Q: You’ve described yourself in the past as a part time model, but you
must think of yourself as a successful part of the industry now based
on your wonderful contribution to it. What did you think about the
industry and role of “model” before you started on the path?
Rachel: I always had my friends “pose” for me in pictures. I say that very
loosely because I was really into the candid look, and most of my
friends got used to me having a camera around all the time. They
didn’t even notice when I was taking pictures of them anymore. I never
got into the industry thinking that I would be a fashion/runway model
because, well… I’m a shorty. I don’t mind though - it’s not really my
style anyways. I’m much more comfortable without clothing
personally. I never went into this thinking that I would be famous
or even noticed at all; I just love to create art and finally got a
chance to create some of the visions that I as a photographer wanted
to. I’m still not even close to being done with those visions.

Q: You may have guessed I’m a newly converted fan of yours and I love
how you do what you do. It may be hard to define, but where and how do
you think you learnt your trade? Is it a practice makes perfect
situation, is it natural ability, or is it experience and learning as
you go?
R: Awh thanks. I learned my trade just from being myself I guess… Of
course I checked out other popular models and saw how they were posing
or looking at the camera etc. Photographers that I worked with in the
beginning helped me a lot too. Then I just sort of started doing my own
thing. I used to be in gymnastics for a long time so that’s where my
posing comes from. It’s just natural for me to be dramatic in that
way. As of recently though - I’m in the process of learning to get more
into a “natural” style of modelling instead of dramatic. Not a lot of
makeup or hair products… That’s just who I am. I don’t much care for
those things. I’m a pretty big tomboy.
Q: From the outside looking in modelling seems like a lot of fun, and I
think today’s aspiring models come into the business with some
misguided ideas of what the work entails. From your experience, what
would you say are the positives about modelling? Also conversely, what
are some of the hidden negatives that often get overlooked?
R: For me the positives are meeting so many interesting and fun people.
I LOVE meeting new people because you never know what joy they will
bring into your life. I think a lot of girls come into this
industry do two shoots and then they’re “very experienced” and want
to be paid like $250/hr… I don’t even think Hustler girls make that
much…? You have to put in the time and effort. Models are a dime a
dozen, especially nowadays. You have to show that you actually care
about your art (not to mention PUNCTUAL and a hard worker), then the
money will come. Negatives to this job are flaky people. It goes both
ways - models and photographers alike. So sometimes your time gets
wasted, but it’s nothing that you can’t get over… I’ve never had a
negative experience with a photographer to where I’d say, “I’d never
shoot with this person again”. But then again, it takes a lot to make
me angry or uncomfortable. (Go figure coming from a redhead, eh?)

Q: Versatility is a word that screams out at me when I look through your
images, and it’s an important trait for a model to possess. You’ve
worked a number of different shoots, in various styles. Where
does your heart lie when it comes to being photographed? Is there a
genre of modelling you enjoy most, or think you are better suited to?
R: I think I’m most suited for the lifestyle/art side of modelling. I
really enjoy being a sexual person as well. It’s just who I am. So I
see the body as a work of art as well as something beautiful to be
celebrated! Some people may think I’m a “floozy” or something like
that… but I don’t really care. They can think anything they like. I
know who I am and I’m comfortable with my body. I really do enjoy
modelling for Heels and Candy as well - it’s really the only “glamour”
stuff that I’ll do anymore.
Q: I love the beautiful almost ethereal quality you achieve in some of
your photographs, especially in your previous work with the likes of
Brian Hilson. You ooze serenity in certain shots, and they have a very
calming influence on me. Do you have a process when it comes to
creating different looks or moods on shoots? For instance is it
necessary for you to have a peaceful mind internally to create a
peaceful image externally?
R: The photos I shot with Brian were the result of an incredibly special
time in my life. He was definitely my best friend for a while and we
loved to create art. I finally found someone who loved shooting
strange and different things as much as I did. Sometimes we were
drunk on his amazing home-made wine, or other times we were just
incredibly laid back. I believe this is when I realized that the
modelling I wanted to do didn’t really take a ton of effort. I used to
get stressed about what to wear, makeup, blah blah blah. But with
Brian, we would just go out and shoot. And a lot of times we came back
with some awesome stuff! He also had a room mate at the time that was
learning how to take pictures so we shot quite a bit. When I have a
quiet mind and open myself up to just being me, sometimes I end up
with photos I adore.
Q: I also have to mention your incredible work with Quinn Cornchip.
You two have produced some stellar shots together, and it’s clear
you’re close away from the gaze of the lens. I particularly adore a
recent Fox Harvard shot with you and Quinn “On the Porch” in Florida.
What’s it like working with such a force of nature, and how has she
impacted your work?
R: Quinn and Mr. Glass have helped me immensely in my career. They are
fantastic, hard working people and I love hanging out with them as
well as shooting photos. Quinn has become one of my best friends over
the past year. We took a trip to Florida recently and stayed with
Coach Moon and Fox Harvard. I had such a blast being out there and
meeting them (as well as David Hilton). All such kind hearted people.
I’m so happy that Quinn introduced me to them and let me tag along with
her on that trip. I was sad it was short, but that just means I’ll
have to go back soon!

Q: Finally on your modelling Rachel, you’ve had an amazing start to 2012
in front of the camera, and are collaborating with some impressive
individuals. What have been some of your highlights thus far in your
year? Are there any people you’d love to work with in the future?
R: My highlights have easily been Fox Harvard, Coach Moon, Art T,
William and Jessa Hundley, and Hector Hernandez. Recently,
was the opening of William Hundley and Hector Hernandez’s
collaboration exhibition, FUGUE STATES in Austin, TX at GreyDUCK
Gallery. I am so incredibly thrilled to be a part of their art. I
would consider myself a HUGE art nerd. So the opening was quite
surreal when I saw myself printed in their soft cover magazine, as well
as through out the gallery! I know we’re scheduled to take more
pictures soon, so I’m still enthralled that I’ll be working with them
on the reg. I would really love to work with a handful of people this
year (I’ll cross my fingers on many of these): Rabbits, Fox Harvard
(again), Chase Lisbon, Corwin Prescott, Teknari, Nettie Harris, J.
Caldwell, Grand Bizarre, Echo, Henry Gaudier-Greene, Photominimal,
there’s more too. I just need to get serious about travelling… It’s
difficult without a reliable car though…

 

All images used were taken from Rachel’s blog with permission for use sought by Rachel herself. Credits follow in order of appearance:

1)      David King

2)      Bheard

3)      Brian Hilson

4)      Fox Harvard

Q: As I mentioned before, there is some kind of indefinable rhythm and movement to your modelling work, like music. It leads us nicely onto talking about music and your projects with your band Hindu Doggie as well as your own solo work. First of all, what does music mean to you? Has it always been there in your life?

T: Music is my comfort, my lover, my love, my abandon, my heart, my soul. It means everything to me and I would be no one without it.

Q: Starting with your band Hindu Doggie if I may. How did the band get started and who is involved?

T: I met Josh James Gahris in a studio only 9 months ago. I was actually there to take photos, but it didn’t take long for music to come up. I wasn’t in the best place in life and I basically said to him, “Hi.  I am miserable and I need a friend. You’re hanging out with me because you’re the only person here I can talk to.” He was absolutely open and supportive from day 1.

The first time we hung out, he picked up my guitar and I sang. When we first jammed in front of other people, they thought that we were playing full, rehearsed songs, which I think was the first inspiration we needed. The band happened rather organically. He sort of started bringing instruments over to my apartment and setting up to record. Our first song was Tao Te Ching, which was just kind of an intro-experiment to see what we were trying to do. The more guitars or midi’s or mics that found their way, the more we played. I don’t know what most people do when they hang out, but that came really naturally to us.

Then we’d record and listen to it consistently in the car or on my phone, then we’d change one thing, listen to that mix for another week. It wasn’t something we were “trying” to do, so we weren’t in any rush to create something.

The greatest thing about Josh is that we think the same way. If we say, “let’s start a band!” we’ll start a band. But we don’t really talk about it. It just happens. By August we had around 5 or 6 sounds done. Right now it’s just a matter of picking what to do put out when, and we still write every day.

Once we realized that we could do covers, too (we have both a Britney Spears and an Elvis cover on YouTube), I think we were sold on the idea of going public with the band.

 

We débuted ” New Body” on 11/11/11.

 

Q: I know artists hate categorizing themselves, but how would you describe the bands brand of music?

T: I always say “Progressive Pop” because it’s like “…whatever that means…”, which is exactly what I need in my mind to really embrace this project. 

Q: Where do the songs come from? Is it a vigorous writing/composition process?

T: We do whatever feels right, I think. There are a lot of songs we’ve put on the back burner because you just know it doesn’t feel right just yet. It’s good, but it’s not what I’m trying to say right now. I think that every song we put out is a build up of a larger message that even we won’t know until it’s over. We have ideas pretty much every hour of every day. I think we will be making music for a long, long time. 

Q: Listening to the pieces there seems to me to be a spirituality that accompanies the tracks. Was there a particular mindset within the band when creating the songs like “The Orchestra” and “Tao Te Ching”?

T: The craziest thing is, we’ve written these songs while travelling through dozens of states. We’ve exchanged tracks when I’ve gone back home for the holidays. We’ve added things in California to songs that we wrote in New York. Some of what we have is what Josh had recorded years ago that I just wrote lyrics and melody to. Other tracks are ideas I have come to him with, or things that inspired me that we built up together. Or if he’s at work, I’ll call him and say, “I just recorded something over this song we haven’t touched in 6 weeks. You HAVE to hear it I’m so excited!” I think it’s a real, true collaborative process.

Q: “New Body” seems to me to be a bit of a celebratory anthem. Would you agree with this, or again, is the music of Hindu Doggie up for interpretation?

T: New Body was the first song that we wrote in California. I think it’s definitely a positive message about my reflection of my road trip and what I felt like I was doing in order to grow. It’s sort of my advice, I think, to the other artists and musicians and friends I left behind who I know want to “get out”, so to speak. After awhile it felt sort of like a letter home from summer camp: don’t worry. I am having fun and even though I’m a little overwhelmed and I miss you, it’s fun and I’ll be home when the sun goes down.

Q: I have recently been introduced to your work as a solo artist as well. It definitely showcases yet another dimension to your style and musicality. I’m sure you’ve been singing all your life, but what made you take the plunge and promote solo material in the first place?

T: I took a recording class when I went to Bennington College, and I was lucky enough to be taught by Julie Last, who was one of the first females in the music industry and was extremely encouraging to me about my lyric writing especially. She encouraged me to learn to play piano and write at the same time which definitely put me in the mindset to pursue song writing. I’m pretty horrible at it, but it does inspire me :) I recorded my own stuff during those classes. I did some demos here and there - I worked with Jamie Siegel (of JRock Studios, who is incredible!) on Visual Exchange. Enemy was a session song that they shopped to Lady Gaga and I think Rihanna, but neither of them wanted to use it for their albums, so I got to own and distribute it since I worked on it, which was pretty great since I also got paid to do the session work. I have been truly lucky in that regard. 

Q: As mentioned before, there are many dimensions and qualities to your voice. I hear some musical theatre in there, a bit of rock chick, some soulful lilts, as well as a myriad of nuances particular to you. What are your musical influences? Who did you grow up listening to?

T: That’s so great that you mention musical theatre because I would be no where without it! I did shows every year until I was maybe 20 or 21. I grew up listening to a lot of classical music, musical theatre, Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland, and Julie Andrews. Man, are those some voices not to be dismissed! I think it was extremely influential growing up with musical influences of people who transcended genres. It was nice to be able to listen to Frank’s holiday album and also see him act in Guys and Dolls. Around 9 or 10 I think I got into an Alanis Morisette phase, which turned into a Fiona Apple obsession, who is probably my biggest influence aside from Regina Spektor and Billie Holiday. Right now I rock everything from Mozart dubstep remixes to Sammie Davis Jr. I’ve been supporting some really great local California artists too: Kreayshawn is my girl.

Hindu Doggie has been interesting because Josh’s biggest influences are bands like My Morning Jacket and Radiohead. He’s also worked with Muse and The Deftones in the studio so I think that influences the band’s sound tremendously.

I think those of us in our early-mid 20’s are a product of everything from our parents blasting Mozart while we were in the womb, The Stones when we were 3, Nirvana at 5, to Britney Spears at 11, and now we’re all swimming around this mishmash of musical bi-product. Through it, even the Pop music is finding its own voice. It was really nice to hear bands like MMJ and MGMT on the main radio stations while on the road in the South. I think people’s minds are adapting to new sounds; it’s wonderful.

Q: Where and when was your first live performance as a solo artist? How did it go, and were there many nerves for you?

T: I sang for the first time in front of other people on my own when I was 7, so I barely remember that. But I was cast as “The Narrator” in the community theatre project of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat when I was 12. Getting the lead role at the age of 12 in a community theatre production with adults was probably where the nerves came in. They took me in a back room after call-back’s and said “There are 25 year old girls and 40 year old women who want this part, and we’re giving it to you, and people are going to hate you for it, and we don’t care.” They never really asked if I cared, and they were pretty much right. 4 months into gruelling auditions where everyone was stabbing me with their eyes was un-fun, but it prepared me for the mindset that I now have and that’s shaped a huge part of me: STOP caring. I went out there on opening night, and I opened and closed the show with my voice, and they sold out every night. I think it was half a ploy on their part to get people to come to the show, but it truly did shape the way that I thought, and I don’t think I’ve ever truly been jittery on stage because of it.

Q: As well as all these wonderful traits you’re also a writer of poetry and prose. Does this attraction to the written word help with your musical expression? Do you find it easy to write your own songs, or is it more laborious than people imagine?

T: It’s really not hard at all. I think I have a lot to say, and I’ve been blessed with feeling like I have a tremendous amount of ways to say it. I think they all feed into each other. Would I write music if writing wasn’t easy for me? Probably not. As much as I like a challenge, I’d probably find some other way to express myself.

Q: What are your plans for live performances in the future? Can people catch you on stage anywhere soon?

T: 2012 is all about live music!! We’ll be updating on Facebook and YouTube and Soundcloud for sure.

Q: You have so many creative outlets it seems, but what medium or form of expression gives you the most pleasure? Is there a career path you’d like to focus on 100% or are you enjoying the variation in your working life at the moment?

T: I think the only time I’ve ever truly “failed” in life is when I was trying to only focus on one career path. Just because you are born into a society that says you must do this and that with your life, that doesn’t mean you’re emotionally or even biologically built to do that thing. I did the 9-5 thing for a decade already; I’ve been working since I was 14. Being “out of work” was not an option. Well, now it’s what I thrive off of. I like that my pay doesn’t come in the form of a mass check, I like that every day is different, I like that it finally doesn’t feel like there’s enough hours in the day, I like travelling. And if I can find more things to do with my time, bring them on! :)

Q: What projects have you got coming up in the future be it modelling, writing, music, painting…?

T: Right now I am finally feeling settled enough to decorate my apartment, so I’ve been painting a lot. Hindu doggie is going to release a cover and a new song this week. I will be in a scene with Mark Ruffalo in “Thanks for Sharing”, as well as featuring in “Culture Magazine” in January. I have a huge set of modelling photos and a series that I did with my dog in New York that I’m super excited about. I’ll be scanning film photos, taking Selfies, writing until my pens burst, painting canvas, tripping over microphone wires and singing my heart out for a long time to come :)

Q: What are you hoping 2012 has in store for Tara Mackey?

T: Love, life, & light.

 

Q: Could we please finish with Bernard Pivot’s well known questionnaire?

What is your favourite word? Road.

What is your least favourite word? Beef.

What turns you on? Intrigue.

What turns you off? The Blues.

What sound or noise do you love? Ooo-AHH.

What sound or noise do you hate? Eee-AHH.

What is your favourite curse word? Derp.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? History Teacher. For sure.

What profession would you not like to do? History Teacher. For sure. (It’s my greatest realistic dream job, but I think I’d hate it in the end…)

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? “Well, wasn’t that fun!”

 

 

It’s been my pleasure to being you this interview with Tara Mackey. I am extremely honoured to be able to say I’ve talked at length with this remarkable woman, about her work, career and inspirations. I hope I have introduced some uninitiated individuals to the majesty of Miss Mackey. Please show your appreciation by checking out her blog, and do yourself a favour and follow. You’ll be tantalized and enthralled by what you find.

http://taramackey.tumblr.com

 

All images used in this piece were provided or approved by Tara herself.

A new year has dawned, and with it comes new interview offerings from the altgirlbotherer blog. For my first post of 2012, I am overjoyed to bring you the sublime talents and words of one Tara Mackey. It is my pleasure to present Tara’s interview as my New Year’s Day two part special. This interview is very special to me, as is the work produced by this precocious woman. As a model Tara is an emotive expressionist, creating images and inspiring intense reactions and associations. I can spend an age looking into one of Tara’s pictorial performances, dwelling on every component. She is captivating in front of the camera, with an exotic intrigue that is truly intoxicating. As a singer Tara has a varied pallet and a wealth of experience. Most importantly she has a passion, a deep connection with melody and tune. Her songs and vocalisations are events in themselves, and an area of herself I’d love to see explored to the absolute extreme. There are so many strings to this talented lady’s bow that I was in awe of her during the research process alone. As a person to converse with I found Tara loquacious and luminous. I think you’ll find that out for yourself when you delve into this piece. There are lessons galore within these words, for the artist and the aspirer. I was so thrilled to be collaborating with Tara on this, I believe it turned out wonderfully well, and it give me tremendous pride to feature our interview as my greeting to this New Year. I hope you all enjoy.

 

 

Q: Where do I start with such a multi-faceted individual as you Miss Mackey? I thought we’d begin with talking about your modelling work. It’s how I was first introduced to your world, and is an aspect of your creativity that captivated me. You must get asked a lot, but how did you get started in the modelling business? 

Tara: Thank you! That’s so nice! I am okay with starting there - I think it opened a lot of other doors for me. And it’s currently my job, so it’s as nice a place to start as any! I don’t remember exactly how it happened; I think it was just a vague idea, like most things start out. I looked at one casting near me at the time - a hair campaign for a salon in New York. They saw over 600 girls, did test shoots with a fraction, and then submitted that to the Creative Director. 5 of us were chosen. A week later I was asked to do an ad for Viper, and we got VIP treatment and I was exposed to the “real life” that goes on with the business, hands on. It all happened really quickly. I think if that first shoot had gone terribly, I probably wouldn’t have pursued it. 

Q: Was it something you always wanted to do, or was it someone else who saw your potential?

Tara: It wasn’t something I had dreamed about or even knew anything about. I think I was extremely comfortable on my first day and had fun with it. They didn’t know until after they hired me that it was my first shoot. Luckily I had a lot of people around me saying, “You’re really good at this!” In the beginning people were comparing me to Megan Ewing, which was great because all I wanted to do at the time was model for Guess! But I think after a while people realized that I wasn’t trying to model my style after anyone else, and it took on its own life once I realized that I wasn’t being held to any standards.

Q: What were your most prominent preconceptions about the modelling industry before you got into it, and how have those preconceptions changed now you’re a professional model?

Tara: Well, like everyone, it seems… mysterious and intriguing, and kind of, nonsensical. Like, “Oh, you make a living off of standing around. Great. Good for you. You must be a great person to talk to.” It seems like a “job” to roll your eyes at, especially in this economy. I think what I’ve realized is that, you have to work to get paid, and it’s hard work. It’s not at all about being the prettiest girl, it’s not as easy as it looks. I feel satisfied in what I am doing, and to me, that makes it more of a job than a lot of jobs I have had.

I used to get really embarrassed saying that this is what I do. But I think you just have to say it, and then let them see that you’re a worthwhile person, too.

Q: As an outsider, modelling is always a peculiar job to try and understand. What are the pluses and minuses for you about what you do? Also, what misconceptions do you think people have about your profession?  

T: It’s wonderful that I get to express myself any way that I want, and I truly see it as that. I take each shoot as an opportunity to tell a tale about what’s going on in my life, or my mind, or the photographer’s life. If we have a great conversation on the way to the studio, I will try to express that in what we’re doing when we get there. It’s a collaboration between myself and the photographer. I like that about it.

But a lot of people dismiss you immediately. I think the only downside I’ve ever seen is the looks people give you when you tell them what you do. I’ve had a lot of people immediately start talking down to me. I wish I could, at the same time, say “Hey. I’m smart, too. I went to college and do music and I love science and life. I am reading a great book at the moment and would like to talk about intriguing things.” Unfortunately, most people don’t give you that opportunity. 

Q: Your images are always thought provoking, especially your recent “self portrait” series. How much work goes into coming up with concepts for your shoots? Are you constantly thinking about the next project, or do you work much more organically, doing what feels right at the time and working with a photographer?

T: Thank you. Truly.

I am not modelling or photographing to show off myself or my body or what I look like, so “thought provoking” is a wonderful compliment.

The concepts create themselves. I moved to Hollywood less than 8 weeks ago after never being to Los Angeles before in my life. Right now, they are a combination of two things: the experiences that I had on my road trip from New York to California, and my intrigue and exploration of Hollywood and California itself. I wake up, and I pack my tripod and camera, and I hunt. I hunt for locations that inspire me, and I set up. Mostly it’s abandoned places, or extremely public areas at sunset. It’s given me a great purpose and explorative view on life.

So, I guess, a lot of work and not much work at all. It’s organic in emotion and inorganic in that I am setting it up and running to that spot and making a fool of myself to get the image. I am that girl you see jumping up and down in the park when you’re jogging or flinging herself at a window 5 or 6 or 10 or 20 times. I let it half happen by itself, and half by intense thought. I try to let the Self-Portraits convey that, too. That, hey - I may have spent 57 seconds settings up this shot, but 57 weeks of emotion went into it. You have to let emotion take over or you’ll never get the image that you want, anyway.

Q: You have a rare quality to emphasize and feature a different part of yourself in different moments. Your beautiful eyes could draw focus in one shot, then your skin could feature, or a particular pose could create intrigue. How does that happen? Are you conscious of such things, or are your pieces subject to audience’s individual interpretations?

T: I am conscious of all of it. I know that sounds insane, but I had to deal with tremendous health problems when I lived in New York, and during that process, I became increasingly aware of my body. Not in a bad way, or a self-conscious way. I just observed that it was different than other peoples, and how that worked for me, and things like that. I think that everyone should try to see their body as just a different thing than anyone else’s, and explore how that thought helps their mindset and their life goals. I believe that once you reach the place of not focusing on self consciousness, the true “conscious” thoughts you asked about can emerge. But there is definitely a part of it that I want the audience to find for themselves. I don’t really like to explain my work: I like it to run off of the emotions people experience when seeing or hearing it.

Q: There is also a rhythm and movement to some of your pictures, almost like you’re engaged in an ongoing dance with the camera. What is it like on the set of a Tara Mackey shoot? Is there music for instance? Also, how do you prefer to collaborate with a photographer? Do you like direction, or more freedom to create?

T: Thank you! There is almost always music, unless we’re outside, and when I’m doing Selfies, I almost always have earbuds in. I don’t mind direction at all and I really thrive off of expanding on it. I only have one body and one mind and there is only so much I can think of to do when I can’t see myself, so I really appreciate feedback during shoots. I’m a really collaborative person and I enjoy bouncing ideas off of other people.

Q: When I see such exquisite photographs from a model, I always ask about their personal relationship with photography. I’m very interested in a photographer’s eye for an image.

T: I’ve been doing photography since I was 11 years old. I have 9 cameras and only one of them ISN’T film. I absolutely adore my Diana Dreamer and Diana Mini and vintage Polaroid cameras. I think that Photography inspired and continues to inspire the modelling, and vice versa. I started doing the Selfies because I missed it: I am a former Self-Portrait photographer, but I haven’t done it seriously in almost a year, which was getting to be an amazingly long time for me. I think I was using that time to focus on modelling and music and other things, but photography has a way of calling you back. 

Q: Your work is varied to say the least. Is there a theme or style of shoot you have enjoyed the most, or a concept you’d like to explore in the future?

T: I enjoy it all. I am really excited to explore California and being able to shoot outdoors in the winter!  I’m about to explore everything! It’s so wonderful here to have the beaches, the mountains, and sunshine, but also the option of snow!

Q: Are there any models or photographers that you’d like to work with in the future?

T: ALL of them! Haha. I won’t name-drop, but you have inspired me to e-mail some people :)

 

to be continued…

My next post is an interview conducted recently via email with a wonderful alternative model called Kristie California. I see this piece as a real coup for my blog, and I’m honoured Kristie agreed to be featured. She is a model and artist whose work I was recently introduced to in the most fortuitous manner. While researching a piece on tattooing for a magazine article, I came across one of Kristie’s drawings online. It was of a face, sideways on, and was featured on some far flung website with no real link back to the original artist. I scoured the internet looking for the person behind such an intricate yet gorgeously simplistic image. Finally as luck would have it, the mighty Google produced the very same image that first tantalized me, with a name below. A quick search later and I was introduced to Kristie’s wider range of work, as well as her awe-inspiring modelling portfolio. I took it as a sign, that I had by tremendous fortune been exposed to this talented and beautiful woman. I enquired about interviewing her, and this article was born. Kristie is a hard working and passionate lady. Her love of all things artistic is evident in every word she utters on the topic. She speaks so enthusiastically about her tattoos, and in amazing detail. It was a pleasure to ask her these questions, and I am filled with anticipation as I post this piece. Please enjoy, and show your support.  

 

When did the modelling adventure begin for you Kristie? What made you want to go down that career path in the first place, and where did the opportunity come from?
My sister had owned two tattoo shops at one point, and one of the piercers was into modelling. When I was going through a rough time she said she could set me up a shoot to make me feel better, after that I made an account with modelmayhem.com and it took off from there!

What was the most surprising aspect of the industry that you weren’t aware of before you started modelling professionally?
I wasn’t really sure of anything, I also didn’t have a great eye for anything specific in this field. I was into photography, but I took pictures of plants & what-not, so I really didn’t know how much hard work this would be on both ends… but now I do!

How did you feel being in front of a camera those first few times? Was it a comfortable experience, were there many nerves and how did those first shots come out?
The first real shoot I did was nerve racking. I had done one before for Valentine’s Day (for my boyfriend) at a salon once, but that was all the experience I had. I was so shaky my first shoot, but I got lucky and shot with a great guy who made me feel super comfortable, and confident enough to go for it again. The photos didn’t turn out too bad at all.

Your portfolio of fantastic work has grown very rapidly in a short space of time. Does it take a lot of work to keep generating shoots and projects, or are you in a position to pick and choose what you work on these days?
It all depends, sometimes it feels like I have a million ideas and a bunch of photographers to choose from (those are usually trade shoots), but now it’s more of whether or not I can shoot cause money’s tight and getting paid work is a must, (this is my job, some people don’t see that) and a lot of photographers aren’t available to pay models right before Christmas, so it’s a bit of both. I love working trade, but I gotta pay the bills. However in terms of picking and choosing photographers, I’ve worked with enough that yes, I do have decently high standards for this, but it’s only professional, so I hope nobody takes that personally.

Being in your line of work I’m sure maintaining your appearance is important. How do you stay in such terrific shape? Your vegan lifestyle must help, but is there a lot of gym activity as well?
I’ve always been extremely skinny. I actually got teased in school sometimes for being skinny and short, luckily I grew a little bit and I have good proportions so you can’t tell on camera ha-ha. A lot of photographers say they’re surprised how short I am when we first meet (5’2”). I don’t go to the gym, but I do think the way I eat is a big deal. My boyfriend always says if I ever ate meat that I’d probably implode because I’ve never had it before ha-ha. Overall, I think it’s just my size, it’s never really changed, I don’t usually gain a lot even when I eat like crazy, so I guess you can say I got lucky.

How do you interact with the photographer while on set? What is the chain of events during a Kristie California shoot?
Well, to start out I usually try some different poses and see what they’re feedback is, do they like what style of posing I’m going for, if not they give a little direction, but from there they pretty much just let me do my thing, I don’t need much direction anymore.
What is an average work week like for you in terms of modelling? I imagine it’s a lot of meetings and networking, shoots and events. Are there less glamorous aspects of the job (office work, administration etc) that actually go into having a successful modelling career behind the scenes?
Well, since I’m not interested in working with an agency I handle EVERYTHING. The good and bad. I spend a good amount of time online networking, nobody will do it for me, so I gotta promote as much as possible. I think that’s a big part of why I’m as well known as I am. Sometimes there are meetings, sometimes we (my escort and I) have to drive a ways to get to the shoot, but once I get there it’s all fun, and usually by the end of that same week I get to see the result, which is the best part. The worst is the back pain I get ha-ha, it’s a lot of physical work.

Moving on to your artwork if I may. I think your pieces are fabulous! Each new image you publish or share just blows me away. Have you always been skilled with a pencil in hand?
Thank you! ha-ha, I’ve been drawing ever since I can remember! I’ve always had art supplies nearby and I’ve been really serious about it for about 4 years now. I started painting with acrylics about 2 years ago and tried oils for the first time this year (love em!)

What is your process when it comes to creating a piece? How does an idea become an image for you?
Most of the time I try and pull images from quotes that I think up. Say I’m going through a bad situation in life, I notice that as a time to vent, so I try and create a quote in my mind that I turn into a visual. That doesn’t mean I always have to be unhappy to make art, but the more emotional I am the more ideas I have.

Your Misfit Graphics designs are sublime in my opinion, as well as your painting work. You have the kind of artistic talents I want to showcase to everyone I know. What do you think about your artwork, and do you exhibit or ever plan to?
:) Thanks again!  Like many artists, when we start out with a personal piece, we love it, we love it for it’s meaning and if it goes the way we like, then we love it for it’s look and how others may see it. But after a while, we’ve seen it so much that it can get old and because we created it, we know every little flaw and tend to pick at them in our heads, but it’s always a learning experience, that’s the great thing about it. I have yet to exhibit, but plan to in the future.

You also display a lot of artwork on your skin, in the form of your tattoos. What do you find so appealing about the art of tattooing?
Because I’m an artist, I’ve always loved to see other people’s work, and with tattoos they’re usually symbolic. They show something that isn’t always there… the true meaning is something totally different. I love trying to figure out stories on skin. On top of that, like I stated before, my sister owned two shops a few years ago and my boyfriend is a tattoo artist. It’s not just another tattoo to me anymore, it’s a lifestyle and each one means something to me. It’s a therapy when I get tattooed and it feels good to be able to express who I am on the inside, on the outside.

Who has done your tattooing work? Who is responsible for your gorgeous pieces?
My boyfriend Anthony at DV8 Tattoo & Piercing in Roseville, Ca. It’s nice to be able to have him do it because I can be blunt about how I feel about his ideas. We get along really well in that sense. Even though we have two totally different styles of art, we can always come to an agreement on it, or he at least understands what I’m trying to say.
I know you have loads of designs on your body, and I’m sure you get asked all the time, but could you give us a brief history of your ink? When and why you got the pieces you have?
Yep! My first piece was sort of stupid, I was 15 and I knew a guy who knew a guy… (NEVER get tattooed by a guy from his house please!!!).  A band of music notes going around my right wrist (it was a time when music was my everything).
The next year I got a 45 vinyl adapter, another music related tattoo. Kind of a tribute to my mom as well, as she introduced me to vinyl :)
My third; A small peace sign on my left shoulder. I got it because it represented a spiritual state of mind that I’ve always had.
My fourth; A trail of butterflies going up my side. It represents a struggle that I’ve always had with anxiety. It was a bad design that I drew up that doesn’t fit the flow of my body. Hopefully I’ll be able to get it removed for something more appealing, but with the same idea.
My fifth; A sea horse on my right shoulder for my home town (Santa Cruz, Ca) by the beach :)
My sixth; A blue bird on my right thigh. I wanted something that would represent growing up, a bird seemed like the best idea to me.
My seventh; An hour glass. One of my favourites. This was an emotional one for me. The only one that wasn’t done by my boyfriend (or a scratcher, but that was only the first two). I was going through a lot of mental changes and one day I drew up an hour glass with ghosts on one side & sun rays on the other, (meaning that the bad in life will always cycle around to good over time). I gave the design to my friend Kevin and he simplified it so it was tattooable and made it happen :)
My eighth; A pencil on my left forearm. I got it for my love of art.
My ninth; Still a work in progress (my biggest tattoo so far). Another favourite and another tribute to my hometown. It’s a carousel horse jumping out of water framed off by sea shells. There’s an amusement park in Santa Cruz, Ca (the Boardwalk), when I was little the carousel was my favourite ride and it’s by the ocean, that’s what the waves and shells are for.
My tenth; An all seeing eye on my chest/stomach area. Something to remind me to stay grounded and see through all of the drama in life. It won my boyfriend his first award. 2nd place for the most unusual, Redding Ink 2011.

You are indeed a multitalented and multifaceted model. You’ve worked in many different styles, from fetish work with latex, to pin-up and more fashion concept stuff. What are your favourite styles of shoot, and is there a shoot concept you’d love to be involved with?
That’s a toughie, but I have to say Alt in general. I love photos that are different from the norm, but on the other hand, I love hi-fashion! Love it. Big hair and makeup is always extremely fun. There’s one thing I’d love to try out, a mix of hi-fashion and alternative. I think it would be interesting.

Speaking of latex, it’s also clear you love the material and the many clothes and outfits created with it. What is it about latex that is so appealing?
Honestly, I’m not sure. I think it’s because not everyone does it. It’s gone from one thing to another, it used to just be strictly fetish, now its fashion, that’s why I’m drawn to it. It’s different and fun. I think when girls shoot in it, it gives them a confident feeling that those shots are going to be sexy, and that’s a good feeling for a model, maybe not all the time, I mean I wouldn’t cram my entire portfolio full of latex, but it does give that edge that’s wanted.

I’ve noticed that music plays an important part in your life as well as your work. What have you been listening to of late, and do you get along to many live gigs and performances these days?
Yes! It’s very important to me. Recently I’ve been listening to mainly two genres, Punk and Underground Hip-Hop. Well that and Deftones (my favourite band). I spend a lot of time on Pandora Radio (internet radio). My main stations right now are Rancid/NOFX radio, or Atmosphere radio. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to go to as many shows as I used to. My first concert was in 2004, since then I’ve gone to about 50 shows… hopefully I can add to that list soon.
It’s always a vague question, but I love to ask it. What inspires you when it comes to your artwork? Where do you get ideas from, and are you ever struck by inspiration and have to do a piece right then and there?
Yes! Inspiration is everywhere, sometimes from music, sometimes from relationships and sometimes it’s just, “Hey, that would be cool”, out of nowhere. There are times when I’ll be sitting watching TV and run out of the room to get paper and a pencil. Everyone looks at me weird ha-ha.
Are there any models working out there right now that you’d love to collaborate with?
Of course! I have a list of favourites in general, if any of them would want to collaborate and I can afford it, I’m there! My top favourites would have to be Sabina Kelley, Mosh, Rachel Anne Aust, Little Linda, and Cervana Fox.

We haven’t really touched on it yet, but you are an alternative model by your own admission. What does the word alternative mean to you? Do you see it as a stylistic choice, or an attitude, or something else entirely?
Well, my life isn’t exactly the mainstream, so you could call it a lifestyle and attitude that switches over into my job which is style and fashion in that sense, but it seems like it’s cool to be alternative nowadays, especially with modelling. I see girls trying to look different to be cool left and right, taking photos in their bathrooms with their phones claiming that they’re “alt” models. Alt has made its own little category, which is nice to a point, but bad in other ways. Everyone should just be themselves and if you want to model, model from the heart. The concepts you come up with should represent you and what you like, yeah it’s fun to play and dress up, but remember that you’re representing yourself in the long run.

Is there a photographer you’d like to work with in the future, or someone you’d like to work with again?
So many ha-ha… Shannon Brooke, Christian Saint, Philipe, 666 photography, No Regrets, Danger Ninja, Andy Hartmark, and Andy Silvers, to name a few. Of course there are many who I’ve already worked with that I’d love to shoot with again.

What does the future hold for Kristie California? What projects are you working on at the moment, and where do you hope this journey takes you in your professional life?
I’d love to make some magazine covers, features are great but covers are a big deal for a model. Some work with bigger names and hopefully some more artistic exposure as well. I think the New Year will be good for me.

Could we please finish with Bernard Pivot’s classic questionnaire?
Why not.

What is your favourite word?
Passion.

What is your least favourite word?
Anything negative.

What turns you on (creatively spiritually or physically)?
Truth.

What turns you off (creatively spiritually or physically)?
Anything that’s fake.

What sound or noise do you love?
Music and my loved ones laughing.

What sound or noise do you hate?
People fighting.

What is your favourite curse word?
Fuck… it makes everything very blunt. People understand how mad or excited you are if you use it :)

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Writing. I’ve always loved writing. Or sculpting.

What profession would you not like to do?
Doctor/Dentist… too much pressure on me ha-ha.

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?
Sup Gangsta!? Here’s the brother you never met.

 

What a labour of love creating this piece was. I am very happy with how the interview turned out, and I hope Kristie feels the same way. I’m sure if you’re anything like me, you’ll have to know more about this highly talented individual. If that is the case then head on over to her tumblr and follow the links to Kristie’s various sites and pages:

http://kristiecalifornia.tumblr.com

 

All images used in this piece are done so with Kristie’s permission.

Recently I completed an interview with stunning British ex-pat Kato, who owns and operates Steampunk Couture, a company that as you would expect, deals in everything steampunk, and produces amazing items of unrivalled quality. Interest in the steampunk style is skyrocketing at the moment, and it is easy to see why when you come across true high quality authentic examples of the fashion. It’s also easy to see the attraction when the creator of such pieces is a beautiful model in her own right, who talks so eloquently about her craft. I was so enthralled by Kato’s answers that I immediately became a steampunk convert, and wanted to know as much as I could about the style and it’s origins. Kato is an impassioned and immensely talented designer, whose forays into modelling are as captivating as the clothes she produces. For all fans of the steampunk style, and of creativity and beautiful productions, I bring you my interview with the unstoppable Kato. She’s a lady that gave so generously of her time amidst a busy schedule, providing me and us with a really gripping and entertaining interview. She’s also a fellow native of Wales, a fact that I just had to ask her about at the start of our interview. Enjoy…

 

 

You’ll have to forgive my self-indulgence, but I like you, was born and bred in Wales and love talking about the place. You only emigrated to the US in 2007. Can you briefly talk about growing up in Wales, and your thoughts and feelings about the country?

As a young child, I loved it. My family lived way out in the sticks so I had tons of room to play and roam. Once I hit my teens, I felt too removed from the world so wanted to get away and move to the City.  I emigrated to Los Angeles, California, and quickly realized that I’m a total country bumpkin at heart and not an urbanite in the slightest. I love everything about Wales and am super proud of my country. I miss it a lot.
 
What’s it like being a Welsh girl in Hollywood? Do you still have the accent, and how does it go down over there?

It’s a sad fact, but most Californians don’t seem to know where Wales is. I get these puzzled looks when I tell them where I’m from, and then they shyly ask where it is. So I gave up saying “Wales” and just use “I’m from the UK/I’m from England.” Sometimes you’ll get someone who knows and they just shriek something about Catherine Zeta Jones and “do I know her?” etc. Lol

Being Welsh in Hollywood is cool…because no one else is Welsh. I have something special about me now that I don’t back home. Ha-ha. Yep. I still have the accent. Though apparently I sound like an odd English/American hybrid to my family.

You started off making couture clothing from your kitchen table. What was it that made you begin this incredible journey in the first place?

I’d been designing in this certain style that I had no set name for, for many years, until I was introduced to the term “steampunk” by the only other steampunk-sporting people at the time (Abney Park). Then when I emigrated to the US, I had steady work that allowed me the freedom and time to pursue my career in fashion design, so I learned to sew and focussed on starting the world’s first steampunk clothing company.

 
After reading about you it seems as though “steampunk” wasn’t a style you chose to work within. Rather a friend branded your style as such. Where do you think your inspirations came from in those early years?

Mad Max and Tank girl. I watched the films over and over and collected the comics. I was a little goth at heart and obsessed with customizing and creating new garments in this weird Post Apocalyptic meets Harajuku style. But I lived in and around Victoriana and was heavily influenced by its beauty. That’s the best thing about the UK in my opinion. SO much history and 1900s style that we preserve. I grew up in this gorgeous, 350-year-old house that my folks still live in today, and they decorated it traditionally and encouraged my love for this charming style.
 
What does the phrase “steampunk” mean to you?

I immediately see fashion before I think of everything else steampunk encompasses, so to me It’s basically taking the Victorian style and dumping it in the modern day. Wearing your beautiful bustle dress with some raggedy, fingerless leather gloves and spraying your hair up into a mohawk. That’s the punk part.
 
Are there any “steampunk” guidelines or conventions you think about when making a garment?

Nope. I’m known for pushing the boundaries, crossing the lines and breaking the steampunk rules set by people that now hate me for it. Ha-ha. I have recently (this year) attempted to design according to seasons, but I still end up making some weird thing that came to me in the middle of the night.
 
It seems important to you that your clothing is not only seen as costume, but every-day wear. Does this make your process, materials or the kind of pieces you can produce, differ at all?
Yes. I try to steer clear of an outfit or garment becoming too theatrical and costumie in the fabrics I use and its complexity. I want people to be comfortable and cool if they’re going to wear it out to a Steampunk club night or trapes around ComiCon all day. You need to be able to put it on and take it off without needing someone to help you and to be able to throw it in the washing machine at the end of the day.

You have definitely moved on from working out of your kitchen. What is your workspace like now, and how many people work with you?

I turned the master bedroom in my house into my studio and decorated it all shabby chic style. Lots of lace and cream but beat-up, worn out furniture and second-hand rugs. Everything serves a purpose as storage etc as well as looking lovely and also doubling as a photo shoot backdrop. I have three members of staff working for me now. I have an assistant, another seamstress and a photographer/prop-builder/videographer.
 
There is a real sense of drama in the clothes you produce. Have you ever been approached to work in the film and TV industry?

Project Runway bug me every year. It’s very flattering, but I’m quite anti-television show. I have not watched TV for over 6 years. I have been approached to work on costumes for films but nothing major and it’s not really of interest to me because I’m not excited about working to someone else’s brief.
 
You utilise very different materials in fantastic ways within your work. Is it a trial and error process when it comes to finding the perfect material for an outfit or accessory?

It was at the beginning, but you learn fabric contents, what works, what shrinks, what will and won’t dye and you begin to know exactly what fabric you’re going to make a new garment out of before you’ve gone hunting for it. But sometimes the fabric will inspire the design. I’ll stumble across something beautiful in the fabric store and it sparks a ton of ideas.
 
You are an exquisitely beautiful model as well as a talented artist and designer. Would you say you are an extrovert, or has the modelling side of things just been a necessity?

Thank you! I never considered myself a model, but worked with a couple of great photographers back in 2004 and 05 , then modelled my own designs early on in order to save some money not having to hire other models. Those photos got around and I suddenly had a lot of modelling gigs booked. I juggled Steampunk Couture and modelling until about two years ago when I had to choose one or the other. I focussed on Steampunk Couture up until last week, when I began modelling again and shooting photo sets for a re-launch of my modelling portfolio thisiskato.com and a very special new site called SteamGirl.com set for launch in the New Year. Now that I have some help with Steampunk Couture, I’m able to juggle both again.

 
It’s important to realise you not only produce steampunk clothing, but a wide range of Victorian, period, sci fi, and more traditional everyday garments. Everything has the signature Kato quality and individuality, and the clothing is simply gorgeous and offers something that isn’t out there anywhere else. Are there any styles or particular genres of fashion you would like to branch out into, or do you feel you can explore all elements within your current style?

I felt that I’d pigeon-holed myself with the name Steampunk Couture and that I had to keep to a steampunk style regardless of which direction my tastes moved, so this is why you see some of my work looking very traditional or sci-fi. I would like to move more in to the futuristic, sleeker side of fashion and bring out some show-stopping, utterly unique in every stitch, designs but keep it wearable. Stay tuned! 
 

The make-up your models wear is very bold and marries extremely well with your pieces. Who does the make-up when you shoot?

I do. Except for Cassie Meder. She knows my signature style and is made up and ready before the shoot begins. Gotta love models that do their own makeup! But yes, makeup was something I just got thrown head-first into doing as I had no other choice. I was asked to take care of the styling for the Dr.Steel cast and performers when I first moved to the US, so got some real practice there and makeup is a piece of cake for me now. I’m in the process of filming some hair and makeup tutorials at the moment by popular demand.
 
Do the stylistic choices and flair present in all your clothes infiltrate into other elements of your life? For instance, what is the décor like in your home?

I’m renting the house I live in right now, but I pay an extra $50 a month in order to do whatever the hell I want with it! So every room is a live-in set from a grand Victorian-style, from open living room/dining room and tea room to a Pirate cabin to a laboratory. I used to build sets for TV and film so am a dab hand with a power tool and also know how to make something look a million bucks on a shoe string budget. I gave myself three months to complete my house when I moved in this year, but it ended up taking over five. Thankfully it’s finished now and I’ve been able to utilize each room as a backdrop for my work and still have rooms and corners to shoot in.
 
Where would you like to take your work in the future?

I actually ask myself this all the time. Do I want to grow it to an enormous stage where I’m making enough money to grow it in whatever direction I want but am miserable with stress and responsibility for years in the process? Or do I take it to a place where it keeps me financially comfortable and gives me the weekends off? All I know is that things have progressed in a wonderful direction since I began simply listening to my gut and so I’ll just keep doing what I love - creating - and see where it takes me.
 

Are there any pieces or lines coming up that you can tell us about?

The Fall/Winter collection is a month late this year due to personal health reasons and so I’m going to extend its release and keep unleashing new designs every week for the next 7 months. It’s a huge undertaking, but a really fun one. I think I might release a 2012 collection next year as opposed to 4 seasonals. It’s going to be my biggest, weirdest collection yet.

I would like to thank Kato massively for her time and efforts. I understand she didn’t feel 100% during the lead up to our interview, and I wish her a speedy recovery, and hope she’s feeling a lot better now. I think you’ll all agree that this is a true exponent of the steampunk ethos, and it’s plain to see that her focus and determination is serving her very well. I hope you’ll all visit Kato’s many sites and media outlets, and support this remarkable woman. Thanks.

http://www.steampunkcouture.com

http://www.facebook.com/steampunkcouture

All pictures for this piece were provided or sanctioned my Kato herself, and they are outstanding!