Always wanted to write for a magazine...

Positivity is a word that springs to mind when describing my next guest on the Alt Girl botherer blog. Today I’m delighted to be able to welcome the wondrous Temptation to my pages. I was first alerted to this magnificent model’s work via my facebook page; such stunning imagery, with powerful themes and emotions running throughout. To merely call Temptation a model would be a mistake, because along with superb images she also has a magnificent message. That message being everyone of us is beautiful, and we shouldn’t be shackled by anyone else’s idea of beauty. Talking with Temptation over the course of this interview has been an uplifting experience. I’ve so enjoyed researching her work, and so enjoyed putting this article together. I hope I am able to introduce some new fans to her work, and share her positive energy with all my readers.

Welcome Temptation. It’s great to be able to feature you on my blog. How are you doing today?
I’m doing great!! It has been an absolutely beautiful day today.

Model, artist, spokesperson, mentor, mother… I could go on and on about your amazing qualities Temptation. You’re a character and personality that I had to feature on my pages. I reached out to you after being introduced to your modelling, but there is so much to talk about in this piece. I’ll jump right in and ask where the “character” of Temptation comes from? Who is this positive and powerful woman in the photographs?
“Temptation” comes from a place where I used to want to be. I wanted to be desired, wanted, yet not in the way most may take that statement. I didn’t want men to drool over me or write me dirty messages, but I wanted to be wanted. I wanted people to look at my photos and be ‘Tempted’ to put themselves out there. I wanted them to be ‘Tempted’ to show off their curves, their bodies to the world. I wanted them to be ‘Tempted’ to be bold and believe in their beauty. As I started to believe in myself and my beauty, I became more confident. I started to believe in the power within myself, the power I had to convey true confidence and self worth to others that may be lacking in those areas. 
When did your modelling journey begin? What was it that made you step in front of the camera that first time, and did you have any idea what to expect or where you wanted to go in the industry?                                                                My journey started back in 2010. I was feeling down and just really low about myself. I was trying to recover from a really bad eating disorder that I had and was having a pretty hard time. My sister has always wanted to be a photographer and the day she got her own pro camera she asked to take some photos of me. At first, I was a bit standoffish but I did it. I didn’t do it for her, or for me. I did it for other women struggling with the same issues. We looked over the photos and I was in pure shock. I LOVED them!!! They were beautiful and AMAZING! I was so proud of both of us. We continued to do these random shoots to build both of our skills and portfolios; little did I know it was also building my confidence. I started submitting my photos to different places but never thought I’d be where I am now!! Featured in 5 magazines, a few runway shows and a bunch of online publications!!!

You’ve been in the industry for over two years now, what can you remember from those first few shoots? What emotions did you experience in the lead up to your first shoot and how do you think those pictures turned out?
Oh geez!! I was soooo nervous!! It was so scary and I couldn’t really believe I was even doing it. I remember just thinking “Be pretty” “Loosen up” “Suck in your stomach” “Push out your booty” lol So many different things running through my mind. The photos actually turned out alright. They were for the NOH8 movement for gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgendered rights and I had a few featured on some different websites!

How do you feel about them term plus size model? Is it a title that bothers you as you make your way in your career, or is it more a badge of honour you wear that makes you stand out from the pack?
Well, I actually get this question a lot. The answer is simple, I am proud. I love who I am. Unlike the girl I was during my first few shoots, I love ME. I love my curves, my shape, my body… everything. And the fact of the matter is, I AM plus sized. I am curvy, I am a BBW, I am ME. I don’t mind being labelled as any of these things and when people see me doing what I do, they do see me as “That plus sized model, Temptation” and it doesn’t bother me one bit!

You’re as dextrous and agile as any model, and the body positions you’re able to achieve are wonderful. Do you do a lot of work on flexibility and posing?
I was a cheerleader for about 6 years in my teens and I’ve been able to hold on to a lot of my flexibility which is highly beneficial in my shoots actually. But, I do stretch as part of my routine before getting dressed for a shoot, just in case. I guess I never really have an exact plan of what I’m going to do, or how I’m going to pose during a shoot until I’m there and in the moment. But, I love the crazy, different poses that require a lot of skill and flexibility. 

I’ve noticed that emotion is an important weapon for you when you’re working. It’s incredible to watch you convey such strong feelings in a single frame. Do you have any performance background at all, any theatre or dramatic experience that you draw on while working?
No, I actually don’t. I am a very emotional person that can connect with any other emotion, feeling or situation presented to me, which definitely benefits me in my shoots. I’ve had shoots that are happy, where I’m literally smiling from ear to ear because of how the setting makes me feel, or shoots where the tears that you see are real because the concept of the shoot is so strong, and I literally feel all of it. I just try to feed off of the photographer, concept and situation. 

Such emotion is particularly evident in your “Kiss me to Death” shoot. This set has a real narrative to it, and every shot from it tells a story. Could you tell us a little more about that shoot? Was it a difficult state of mind to get into while shooting? What was the day like for you?
That shoot is very deep and personal for me. Someone that I love very much and was very close to is highly into drugs and is an alcoholic. They have hurt me a lot over the years but have hurt themselves even more. That shoot was to show what those things can do to you. I was drowning in the water, with a bunch of alcohol around me, wilted and dead rose petals in the water, money at the bottom of the tub and white powder on a glass tray. At first I had to take a few minutes to pull myself together because it was so powerful but once I did, my main focus was to save someone. Show them exactly how they could feel if they went down that road and by me actually living through it I was able to portray my own personal story along with these photos. It was a really emotional day, but soooo worth it!

Lush Moments Photography is a company that you have worked a number of shoots with. What is your relationship like with the guys over there? Do you bounce ideas off one another, or are you more their muse?
I have an AMAZING relationship with them. The company is actually owned by my sister and they are my favourite. We have both grown so much in a professional and personal manner. She is an awesome person and her work is ridiculously amazing!!!!! We work together on concepts and she always takes my opinion into consideration when planning shoots.

You’ve spoken many times about how you use the negativity of the world around you to get into certain moods to aid a shoot. The views and opinions within the modelling industry seem to feature regularly in your work. Can I ask what you think of the business today? Do you think there is enough equality in terms of representing different shapes, sizes and people?
Today, things are actually evolving. In the industry plus size women, clothing, shapes, sizes are coming more to the front of things, and people are starting to take notice of them. With that said, society as we know it is completely different. There are definitely people that think like I do, they have the “everyone is beautiful” state of mind but there are more of those that don’t have that quality. There is more hate that has to do with size than anything as of right now and it is heartbreaking but that is the reason I do this. I put myself out there so others can see that it is okay. It’s okay to be you and to love yourself regardless of your size, race, gender, sexual orientation, anything. I don’t know if there is enough equality as of now, but I do think we’re on our way there!
 You’ve been featured in a number of publications already Temptation, most notably Very Full Figured Magazine and Curvi Magazine. Publication and celebration is a goal for models today. What is it like for you when you see yourself in print or on sites, how do you feel knowing your work has inspired so many people?                                                                                      

Wow, well first of all it feels AMAZING. It is the best feeling to open a magazine and there I am! lol But, more than just feeling great because I’m showing the world my beauty, I feel great because I’m once again showing girls that look like me that it is okay to be you regardless. 

You’re based in Vegas, and as a foreigner over here in the UK when I think Vegas I think showgirls and burlesque. Would you say you have something of the Vegas showgirl in you? Do your surroundings influence your art at all, and what is it like living and working in the neon city?
I don’t think I have the ‘showgirl’ in me that most do, but I do think that Vegas influences and more so inspires my work. It is such a huge place with tons of opportunity and different places to shoot and work. I love it! 

There’s a distinctive message in some of your shoots Temptation, and you’re passionate in your dedication to showcasing the beauty in the world. I love how vehemently you appose negativity about appearance and weight. Is it a hard battle to face, or does the positive response your campaign generates help keep you going?
The positivity that I generate from my work and fans is so much motivation and is such a huge push that it cancels out the negativity for sure! Don’t get me wrong, I definitely get my share of hate mail but I rarely read it and I never let it affect or get to me. I love my fans!

Cosmetology is another avenue for your creativity, is it a skill that has influenced your career? Have you ever been inspired to shoot based on a technique or style you’ve created with make-up?
Oh for sure!! At the beginning I did my own make up for every shoot and actually did make up/hair for a few other plus size models. I feel like the creative side of me that loves cosmetology has played a huge part in my success. 

Do you do your own hair and make-up for shoots now? Or is it a joy to have it done for you sometimes?
It’s awesome having it done for me for once, since I spend so much time making others beautiful, but I do like to do it myself sometimes! Guess I’m kind of picky.

Another set of yours that I adore is the work you’ve done with Jessica Nichole. Particularly involving the styling and wardrobe choices of Kelley Palmer. In the pictures there is a distinct retro feel, and the style is very vintage indeed. Was that a fun shoot to be a part of; is the vintage style something you enjoy working within?
I love it!! People tell me all of the time that I should have been born in the 50’s because I love that style so much!! It was so much fun and they are both such joys to work with!

From all of your past shoots, is there a theme or style that you haven’t yet indulged in that you would really love to?
Hmm, fetish I think. I just got a few different latex items and corsets in the mail today, so I would love to shoot in those. Besides that, maybe something completely opposite and more commercial.

Yet another thing that impresses me about you and your work Temptation, is your willingness to give back and pass on your experiences. Conducting modelling workshops and speaking about your own trials and tribulations in the industry is something you’re dedicated to. What do you get out of those sessions, and where do you see that classes going? Perhaps a road show?
I get a lot of them! I feel like, if I can pass on my knowledge to another woman and help her get started in the industry, or just help her have a day where she’s pampered and made to feel beautiful, then my job is complete. I would LOVE to take Plus Size Dreams Workshop on tour eventually. That would be so much fun!

I couldn’t interview you without talking about a set of yours I refer to as “the body graffiti set”. These are the pictures where you have words such as “ugly” and “worthless” written on your skin. They are very powerful images, with a strong message behind them. Can I ask where the idea for this shoot came from? I already know it took a lot out of you to shoot, but would you revisit those emotions and tell us about posing with those words on you?                          The shoot idea came from me, I came up with the concept after I got the worst piece of hate mail I’ve gotten yet. It was horrible and although I am confident and know none of that is true, it made me sad that there were people that ignorant out there that really thought that way. So I pitched the idea to Lush Moments and we started working on it. The day of the shoot as the make up started being caked on to show a black eye, and my hair was ratted, the emotions started. It was painful to see myself look beat and battered but then the words started to get painted on my body and the tears started to flow down my cheeks. It wasn’t because I was hurt personally but I started to feel the hurt and pain from other girls. It was horrific. I felt for them and it hurt. When the second shot came around and I was able to get those words crossed off and the word “Beautiful” painted across my chest, I felt a sense of relief. I could breathe and I looked in the mirror as I have done many many times before and said “You are beautiful and you are worth it” 

The complete antithesis of the beginning of that shoot is the tattoos you actually have on your body now. There are some truly beautiful pieces, and inspiring messages. I know you must get asked about them all the time, but could you shed some light on some of your favourite designs, and what they mean to you?
Well, I have my sons name on my back which isn’t the prettiest but means a lot to me because he is my world. I also have a rose with my Mom’s name, angel wings with my baby sisters’ names, and a crown that represents my Mom’s maiden name “Crownover”. But, my favourite is my chest tattoo that says “You may think I’ve changed but I’ve just found myself” it is accompanied by a sparrow on each side that represents freedom. 

Lastly, before I let you go. It’s clear that your fans mean a great deal to you. You celebrate them on your pages, and love their feedback and interaction. Do you have a message for all of your supporters out there?
Yes, as I always tell you guys… I love you all. You area all beautiful and I believe in every single one of you. I appreciate the love and support that you have all shown me in the past few years, and I can’t image not having all of you by my side. I love sharing my journey with you so hold on, the ride isn’t over yet!!!

What projects are you working on at the moment? Where might fans be able to see your work in the near future?
I have a lot of different concepts and ideas to pitch but nothing set in stone yet except a wet shoot and a fetish shoot. But I’m always open for fan suggestions!!!

Can we please end with Bernard Pivot’s questionnaire:
What is your favourite word? Inspire
What is your least favourite word? Failure
What turns you on? Strength, Motivation, Courage
What turns you off? Laziness, bad hygiene
What is your favourite curse word? Tehehee, I curse A LOT. Uhm, I say F**K a lot. lol 
What sound or noise do you love? My son’s laugh, and my girlfriends voice
What sound or noise do you hate? My alarm in the morning! lol
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Well, I’ve already accomplished Cosmetology and I’m 1 month away from graduating Medical Assisting school, so who knows!
What profession would you not like to do? Hmm… I would hate to be a chef, or maid. lol Guess I’m not the housewife type
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? “Welcome home, thank you for exhausting all outlets I gave you… Now enjoy your destiny, you deserve it”

It was a real treat to be able to feature Temptation and her work on my blog. I can’t thank her enough for her enthusiasm and help putting the piece together. I’m honoured to be featuring her wonderful imagery and opinions here, and urge everyone to visit the link below for more information:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/TEMPTATiON/144760672292105

http://msgrimes78.wix.com/curvifall2012#!curvi-beauty-jessica-palmer/cklj

It feels as though I’ve had a constant smile on my face while compiling and conducting this interview, and that’s not only due my interviewee’s extremely entertaining contribution! It’s been a pure joy to work with this much travelled alternative model. Her name is Roswell Ivory, and she is a delight! I was introduced to Roswell’s work thanks to my previous interview with the magnificent Kitty at Pirate Photography. During the course of my research for that piece, I was struck by these truly stunning images. Upon looking further into the model, and with Kitty’s hearty endorsement ringing in my ears, I delved deeper into Roswell’s portfolio. From there I was carried on a wave of extraordinary work, taking in strong and unique latex shots and sublimely moving art nudes. I absorbed the whole pallet of Roswell’s output, and was beside myself with happiness when she agreed to be interviewed for my blog. From there I haven’t stopped having fun, and would love to share the results with you all. Please do enjoy.

 

Q: Greetings Roswell and welcome. May I ask how and why you got into alternative modelling? Did you have preconceptions of what to expect, or did you just jump into it?

Roswell: I had no idea there was such a thing as “alternative modelling” until I was spotted by a talent scout at a festival, so it was an entirely new world that opened up to me that day and I had no idea what to expect!

Q: Before modelling did you take part, or were you interested in the alternative scene personally?

Roswell: I was a bit of a nonentity until I hit thirteen! I didn’t have many friends, was bullied (badly) and as a result was painfully shy, so I listened to whatever music my mum was playing and didn’t venture further than the local supermarket. It was in high school that I discovered rock music, Bizarre Magazine and the film “The Craft”. One day in town, I got talking to a group of alt teenagers and we ended up meeting and having adventures every Saturday for about three years! I made friends for life there at “The Block”. I loved that I was accepted for who I was, no questions asked. It showed me that no matter how “weird” people at school found me, there were others who saw me as interesting because of my differences.

Q: What do you think it means to be alternative? These days that term is used a lot to describe so many different genres/styles, what is your definition of alternative, in a modelling or stylistic context?

Roswell: It’s one of those things that always gets debated but I’m not sure anyone will ever come up with a dictionary definition! To me, “alternative” means not conforming to current trends just because one is told to. I spent six months working in an office and many of my colleagues would buy a dress because Cheryl Cole wore it; without asking themselves if they even liked it! They would never have visited an independent shop or tried a different bar on Friday nights out. It was scary to see!

Modelling-wise, I think it’s easier to define. Obviously, there are exceptions to every rule but if you’re modelling clothing that is not current fashion, have an unusual look (e.g. body mods or blue hair), or appear in alternative publications, the chances are you’re an alternative model.

Q: I know there are many facets to you Roswell, but may I start at the beginning, and your incredible modelling work. It’s where I was introduced to you, and why I started following your career. Can I ask about the inspiration behind your name first of all?

R: “Ivory” was my alias with a fetish/bondage company I was already modelling for. As for “Roswell”, I nearly became a paranormal investigator so it began as a very geeky joke!

Q: Can you recall your first shoot? What was it for, how do you think it went, and what were your feelings leading up to it?

R: I remember my first shoot very well- it was my 19^th birthday- the day after I met the talent scout and suddenly I was heading to my first ever photoshoot, at the festival venue. I don’t think it sunk in that I was actually modelling until about a year later!

Q: You have a very striking trademark or signature look, with your pale skin and vibrant red hair. Was it a conscious decision to promote these aspects, or were they simply picked out from your pictures by observers? I guess they’re hard to miss.

R: I’m really glad people like my pale skin, as they don’t really have a choice! If a solitary sun ray touches me, I get the “Great British Lobster Look”- I go from white to red and back again. I’ve always felt that I was meant to be a redhead- I dyed my hair about six months into modelling and had such a great response that I never looked back. I’ve invested in a few wigs though so that I can drastically change my appearance if needed.

Q: I’m always interested in models opinions on what they do. Modelling is somewhat indefinable for those of us outside the industry. Could you share a few of your opinions on the work, and any biases or misconceptions the industries participants have to deal with?

R: Any industry that considers “you’re a real poser” to be a compliment is always going to be interesting… I think that because there are so many facets to modelling, there will always be misconceptions. Many people have never heard of “internet modelling” and so I am constantly explaining to people why I’m not with an agency and that yes, at 5’7” I really am too short.

I find it fulfilling that I am usually included in the creative process and not just treated as a “doll”. I was once asked if it was draining constantly being around such vain, boring women and I laughed my head off! While I often hear about vacuous models with nothing to talk about except their hair, most of the women I have met through work are fascinating people, usually with their own creative projects and/or doing degrees in neuroscience or computer engineering!

For people better acquainted with my nude work, I think it sometimes comes as a surprise meeting me in person- I wear platform boots and my style icons are mostly characters in sci-fi/action movies. When you’ve only ever seen pictures of someone nude, it’s easy to get an image in your head of how they might dress and forget that you don’t actually know until you meet them!

Q: Having some wonderful experience under your belt already, could you shed some light on the learning curve a model has during a career. Is it a matter of learning as you go in your profession, or can you work on certain things in your down time?

R: Any model can work on poses and fashion show walking in their spare time, but I think that business skills take some time to acquire. I learned how to market myself to my best advantage through trial and error and am still learning! It also takes a while to get to know the industry- what themes have been done to death and so on. For one of my first shoots, I was so excited about the amazing idea I‘d had: to stick some vampire teeth in and go “raaaaah” in a graveyard. A few months later I realised the world, his wife and their dog had had the same idea… Talking to other models, it seems most have done something similar before beginning to interact with others in the industry. I think that is an important thing to do- everyone has something to teach, and no-one has ever learned everything.

Q: You’ve travelled extensively with your modelling work. Do you like that aspect of the job, and where have been some of your favourite locations to shoot?

R: I love it! I’m extremely independent so it gives me a bit of a high when I get on a plane and fly somewhere alone. I have fallen in love with Barcelona and Berlin (Germany in general, actually). Barcelona seems very free- if that makes any sense at all!? You can buy all your food fresh from the market in the morning, walk to the sea or the beginning of the mountains and watch street entertainers and flamenco dancers while eating ice-cream at eleven at night! I saw very few people staggering about blind drunk and I don’t think I saw (or heard) a bratty child once. The image that stays in my head is of all the balconies strung with fairy lights and vines, with everyone’s brightly-coloured towels hanging over the sides!

Berlin has so many friendly bars and bohemian places. The history (more than just the wars) is everywhere- you literally can’t miss it. I had a lot of fun in the KitKat Club (which has a fire-breathing velociraptor sculpture on Rock nights) and there were so many other unusual bars that I intend to check out. (You can even go on a bar-walking tour!) I would love to learn more German so that my German friends don’t have to spoil me by speaking English when I visit! I’m heading back to Berlin in May to walk in the Fetish Weekend fashion show and am very excited! Sweden was also beautiful though I wish I had been able to explore more of it.

(…thank you for listening to “Touring With Roswell”…)

 

to be continued…

 

All images used were provided by Roswell.

Image info:

Hair/make-up for all: Roswell Ivory

Scorpion picture: Hart-Worx

White dress: Alex Blyg

Red dress: G Haskew

It’s time for another “adventures in ink” ladies and gentlemen. This time it’s with a Brit abroad called Rhian. She is a make-up artists and occasional model who was kind enough to answer a few questions for me about her fascination with the art of tattooing. A well covered lady with an enchanting personality, and a passion for all aspects of life. It’s obvious from her success and enjoyment of so many disciplines, that Rhian is a both a dedicated family woman, and independently minded entrepreneur. Upon being introduced to this beautiful and intelligent lady’s work, I couldn’t help but be captivated by her blog, and the kindness on show in a multitude of advice posts. She’s a generous and genuine person, who has some wonderful tattoos about her person. I hope you’ll enjoy learning a little more.

 

Q: Hello there Rhian how are you doing? Welcome to the blog, it is a pleasure having you here.

Rhian: I’m great, thank you for having me!

Q: I’d like to jump straight in and talk tattoos if we may. You are an exquisitely inked lady, who obviously revels in the art of the tattoo. What were your impressions of tattoos before you had any of your own? Did you grown up admiring people you knew with tattoos?

Rhian: Thank you for saying so! I grew up obsessing over BMEzine.com and thought the tattoos were all so breathtaking and beautiful. I loved the idea of adorning bodies with tattoos and piercings, not to hide things or distract you from flaws, but to accentuate bodies and shape. 

At around 15, one of my sister’s friends started tattooing from home and he let me tattoo him one day, I think that just fuelled my obsession even more.

Q: How old were you when you got your first tattoo? What was it of, and what can you remember about your thoughts and feelings leading up to the appointment?

Rhian: I got my first tattoo at 17. My boyfriend at the time was at uni in Brighton and I went to a local tattoo and piercing shop, lied about my age and got the “Siamese” guns on my lower stomach as a tribute of sorts to my favourite band at the time, The Blood Brothers. 

I don’t remember the run up to the tattoo but found, after being told by every guy in there that I’d picked the most painful spot, it didn’t hurt at all. I just loved every minute of it and was so excited to see the result. Looking back, it’s not the best tattoo technically speaking but I love what it represents and that I remember a fun stage in my life when I think about it.

I also used it as a ploy to meet The Blood Brothers and get them to sign my stomach which seems a bit obsessive when I think about it, but whatever…

Q: When you got your first design, did you ever envisage getting as many as you have today, or have you just taken it one tattoo at a time, eventually building up the fantastic amount work you currently sport?

R: I really had no idea at all. I remember saying “no, I could never get a chest piece” but evidently that didn’t last long. I had left school in favour of a well paid government job when I was 18 and that’s when I started getting more coverage. I loved that people there realized it didn’t change me as a person and didn’t interfere with my job; they were just pretty pictures on my body.

Q: When planning a new tattoo, what comes first, placement or design?

R: I’m honestly not sure of my conscious process of deciding, I think it can go either way. I’ll let you know next time I get a new idea!

Q: What’s the longest you have waited between tattoos? You’re a very young woman but have so many, are you constantly in the tattoo shop all year round?

 R: Not at all really. When I do get tattooed I usually do long sittings, like my back piece and left arm for example, I had to do long sittings because Diego lived so far away. I also probably went a year or two between my first few small tattoos before starting my left arm. I don’t think people realize I’ve been collecting them for 5-plus years and I travel a lot so there are always good opportunities to get a new souvenir.

Most recently I went about 9 months without getting tattooed before I got the lilies on my neck.

Q: What do tattoo shops mean to you? Is it just a place to get work done, or do you enjoy your time with the people who work on you, and sitting in the chair?

R: I don’t think I’ve ever put much thought into it really. Some artists talk a lot when you’re getting tattooed by them and some rarely say a word, so you have different relationships with each of them. I don’t really enjoy talking tattoos because there’s only so much you can say but it’s nice when you find something in common with the artists and spark up a friendship that way! 

When I’d get tattooed by Diego we were both quite quiet because I found it so painful, but as soon as his wife Sol would come in, we’d chat and catch up which was a welcome distraction. 

Q: Having had so many tattoos over the years, is the pain second nature to you now? Is there a desensitisation to the needle? What one word would you use to describe the sensation of being tattooed?

R: Instinctively I want to say the one word is “awful” because I’ve had extensive tattoo sessions on painful parts, but really, some are easy so I’ll go with “scratchy”! Pain is such a subjective thing, I’ve found certain areas awful when others have told me it was easy and vice versa. It usually is a case of mind over matter, I’ve seen people really psych themselves up for failure when it comes to tattoos and I’ve been guilty of that myself. As long as you go in calm, it’s usually tolerable.

I do think the older you get the more painful it is though, I don’t have the patience for it any more and even if I don’t find it too painful I usually get withdrawn and quiet if I’m sitting for a long time. I think that’s just my body’s response to pain.

Q: Is there a logical progression of your work across your body, or do you just get what you want where you want it, whenever you want it? Do you see your body as a work in progress, or are you getting near to a point where you are happy with your coverage?

R: There aren’t really any facets of my being that you could class as logical so I’m going to have to say no to that one. I really just get what I want when I want it, but it all works together because I stick to the same style which is very simple, dark old school. I don’t really have a plan as far as my body goes, I’m just enjoying the process.

Q: Would you say you are addicted to tattoos at all?

R: No. There is no “need” for them, I just think they look nice. If someone took all of the tattoos off my body and told me I couldn’t get more; I would be bummed sure, but I could live without them. I certainly think there are people who can’t stop because they will never be happy with themselves though, similar to people who can’t stop getting plastic surgery. 

Q: I know there are not many places left on your body, but is there a position or placement that you would never consider getting a tattoo? Where has been the most painful place you’ve been tattooed?

R: I don’t think I would ever get anything facial and I would never get anything on my palms or soles of my feet. I’d have to say my back was the most painful tattoo because there are so many nerves along your spine and they were such long sittings.

Q: Who has done the majority of your work, and are there artists out there that you would love to be tattooed by?

R: The majority has been done by Diego Azaldegui and Matt Kolling. Right now I don’t have my eye on any new tattooists though.

Q: I love your intricate and beautiful back and stomach pieces in particular. Could you shed a little light on what inspired them, and are there any pieces on your body with significant meaning, or that were a long time in the planning/consideration for you?

R: Thank you! My stomach was inspired by a shrine of sorts in Westminster Abbey in London. It was two cherubs lifting a veil to reveal a skull underneath. I don’t know what that symbolized to its maker but I loved the juxtaposition of the heavenly cherubs and the deathly skull. 

I decided on my back piece after being tattooed by Diego and seeing his traditional Japanese work. I knew I wanted a woman and a dragon but wanted to stay true to tradition so left a lot of it to Diego to decide. She is the goddess Benten!

I wouldn’t say many of my tattoos have taken much planning but the most meaningful is probably my chest which says “worse things happen at sea”: something my grandma used to tell my sisters and me as kids.

Q: What about tattoos on other people? Is there anyone out there whose tattoos you just love? Also, would you say you are more attracted to people or characters with tattoos? Not necessarily romantically, but do you find yourself more drawn to other people that have ink?

R: Honestly I rarely look at other peoples’ tattoos. Unless they are Nazi swastikas or gang tattoos, they rarely tell you much about a person. I’m more interested in faces, body language and personalities. I probably have equal amounts of friends with tattoos and without. It bums me out when people say they are looking for a “tattooed guy” or “more tattooed friends”, why ostracize an entire group of people purely because they have no tattoos? I can honestly say I have just as much of a crush on Ryan Gosling as I do on my heavily tattooed husband. I don’t discriminate ;)

Q: Why do you think tattoos are getting more and more popular in general culture?

R: I think in some cases it’s just like anything else, dying hair or wearing certain things…people see other people look different and want to be different too. A bit of an oxymoron but I think in a lot of cases it’s true! The other reason is that things are so much more accessible and accepted now. You can walk down the street and get a tattoo without breaking the bank and still have a successful career!

Q: Do you have plans for any more tattoos in the near future?

R: Nothing I want to share with the internet ;)

Q: Leaving tattoos for a moment now, could we speak about your work in the make-up industry. You are entirely self taught am I right? There must have been a true passion for the work to inspire you to make it your job. How long were you learning your craft, or would you say you’re always learning?

R: I am self-taught, that’s correct! I’ve used lots of different resources to learn techniques but I think a keen eye for aesthetics is key. I loved art in school and have always been able to find beauty in most things. I’d say its a constant learning process because there are always new trends and products, you have to be open to new things!

Q: How did it start? Was it a career that sprung from a love of hair and make-up in your personal life?

R: It really came about because I got bored of solely being a housewife. People have told me for years that I should do makeup and have asked me to do theirs, so with a bit of research and help from friends in the industry, it was a natural progression.

Q: Where would you like your make-up work to take you? Is there any interest in setting up your own brand of products?

R: I’m really not one for having a set plan or exact goal, I just enjoy the process and if something great comes out of it that’s a plus! Who knows what might happen.

Q: You’ve modelled for some terrific photographers in the past, do you do your own hair and make-up for those shoots?

R: I always have, yes! Don’t get me wrong, I’d love to have my hair and makeup done, it just was never an option at the shoots I’ve done. I like it because I get to feel twice as accomplished in that sense.

Q: Speaking of your modelling, you definitely have a flair for it, and have produced some tremendous stuff. Is it something you’d like to do more of?

R: Thank you so much! I do enjoy it but I think it started as a way to boost my confidence and self image and went on from there. I’ve always had a good body image but I think its even better now so I don’t feel the need to put myself out there as much, plus my life is going in different directions so I’m just letting it happen. I love that I could be creative as a model but that moved into wanting to direct shoots and even dabble in photography myself. I’ve made some friends along the way that I’d never turn down a shoot with but I’m not actively looking like I was before.

Q: Being an English woman living with your husband in the US, do you miss the UK much? Do you have many opportunities to visit these shores regularly?

R: I do miss the UK, not just my family and friends but the entire way of life, but I think there has been a shift in where I class as home now. I’d have to say I love them both equally for different reasons, you really can’t compare the countries. I make it back a few times a year which is nice because I adore my family and friends there.

Q: In the course of researching this interview I couldn’t help but notice that you have become something of an agony aunt via your tumblr blog, giving advice and suggestions on all kinds of queries from your followers. Does it mean a lot that your advice is sought out on so many different topics? Do you enjoy trying to help out those who follow your blog?

R: Ha-ha, that’s so true! I guess I’ve always been a bit of an agony aunt, even in school I was the one that sat back and watched other people make mistakes, only to pick up the pieces for them when it all went wrong. I love listening and I don’t think people do that enough, next time you have a conversation try and keep track of how much you’re talking vs how much the other person is. Sometimes its nice to sit and listen and actually help someone!

I am constantly flattered, if not slightly confused that people share very personal information with me or ask me for advice, but I completely understand that sometimes its easier to talk to a stranger than someone you know and often easier to get an unbiased opinion. To me its not an option to ignore someone that’s asking for help, no matter what it is.

Q: I couldn’t interview you without talking about yet another of her passions, that being your dogs. How are your canine cuties, and do you have any plans for more pups?

R: Aww I’m missing them a lot right now as I’ve been in the UK for a few weeks but I get to see them very soon. I would be so lost without them! They are so unconditionally loving and often hilarious. I often crave another dog so I can baby something but I can’t imagine changing what we have now.

Q: What projects are you working on at the moment, and what are you hoping for in 2012?

R: I’m hoping to expand on the makeup side of things, like offering group lessons etc. I also want to look into the possibility of getting certified in other aspects of the beauty industry whether its semi-permanent makeup, nails or other treatments.

My husband drives in the rally America national circuit so I’m hoping he comes out in one piece and places well. We travel a lot for rally so preparing for all of the trips can be a lot of work.

I also just became a first-time aunty a week ago so I want to come back to the UK as often as possible since I found it so hard even thinking about leaving for the US.

Lastly I want to continue with my latest obsession which is healthy living, I’d love to see how far I can take the weight training and try out different diet options and different split routines.

 

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

R: mais oui!

What is your favourite word? Succinct.

What is your least favourite word? Used.

What turns you on? Blue eyes, dilated pupils and chivalry.

What turns you off? Unnecessarily large egos.

What sound or noise do you love? I used to love the sound of my mum’s necklace she kept her wedding ring on hit her nightstand every night when I was in bed. It was comforting in the sense that I knew where she was.

What sound or noise do you hate? Snoring and loud eaters.

What is your favourite curse word? Fuck.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Female body building.

What profession would you not like to do? Cold-calling or working in a slaughter house.

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? “Welcome home.”

I can’t thank Rhian enough for her time in answering my questions. She was so enthusiastic about the project, and so helpful during the process. I hope you’ll all head on over to her blog to get a glimpse into her remarkable world.

http://wifelife.tumblr.com

All images were used with Rhian’s consent, and I think you’ll agree are fantastic!

Q: What have you had your eyes and ears on of late (bands, TV, film, etc)?

K: I will always love True Blood! It’s sooo good. I’m watching Big Brother at the minute too. I can’t help loving that shit. Band wise, I’m really loving Two Door Cinema Club at the mo, but The Beatles will forever be my favourite. I very recently watched the film Contagion, which was actually pretty good.

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Tattoos have always been a fascination for me. I grew up admiring and intently interested in the army and other service tattoos proudly sported by the older gents in my community. Today the art form has infiltrated every aspect of society, and trade is booming. I wanted to explore the decisions and choices made by those who clearly love the expression of design on their own bodies, and what the medium means to them. I am intrigued about people’s relationships with getting tattooed, and how their pieces have influenced their lives. That’s why I have introduced this “Adventures in Ink” (still not sure about the title, and something tells me I’ve ripped it of from somewhere) feature to my blog. I hope that these articles and interviews will entertain and inform readers, and are aimed at everyone that has a similar interest and love of the practice. I don’t pretend to be an expert by any means. Just someone with a real love of tattoos, and admiration for those who exhibit them so beautifully.

My first interview for these pieces is with Kerosene Deluxe. She was one of the first people I talked to on this blog, where we discussed her fabulous modelling career and tireless work as a size positive activist. Kerosene is a tremendous ally and muse in what I am trying to do with my tumblr. She has been wonderful in all my interactions with her, and I am very grateful for her input. We touched on her artwork in our previous interview, but I was keen to delve deeper into discussion about the designs she has, her thoughts about the field, and what she plans to have done next.

 

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