John Tan Casting/Styling

PARIS MENSWEAR F|W 2010 SCHEDULE

2010-01-04T10:40:00.007-05:00

Thursday, January 2010, the 21st

10.30 am ALEXIS MABILLE

11.30 am ISSEY MIYAKE

12.30 pm FRANCISCO VAN BENTHUM

1.30 pm JUUN J.

2.30 pm LOUIS VUITTON

4.00 pm GASPARD YURKIEVICH

5.00 pm JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

6.00 pm SMALTO

7.00 pm DRIES VAN NOTEN

8.00 pm JULIUS

8:00pm ADAM KIMMEL

9.00 pm HENRIK VIBSKOV

7pm-10pm Y-3 PRESENTATION|COCKTAIL RECEPTION

Friday, January 2010, the 22nd

10.00 am JUNYA WATANABE MAN

11.00 am BLAAK

noon YVES SAINT LAURENT

1.00 pm RICK OWENS

2.00 pm WALTER VAN BEIRENDONCK

3.00 pm KRIS VAN ASSCHE

4.00 pm COMME DES GARCONS HOMME PLUS

5.00 pm CERRUTI

6.00 pm GIVENCHY

7.00 pm TIM HAMILTON

8.30 pm JOHN GALLIANO

Saturday, January 2010, the 23rd

10.00 am BORIS BIDJAN SABERI

11.00 am KENZO

noon MIHARAYASUHIRO

1.00 pm ANN DEMEULEMEESTER

2.00 pm TILLMANN LAUTERBACH

3.00 pm DIOR HOMME

4.30 pm UTE PLOIER

5.30 pm DUNHILL

6.30 pm DAMIR DOMA

8.00 pm HERMÈS

9.00 pm RAF SIMONS

Sunday, January 2010, the 24th

10.00 am BILL TORNADE

11.00 am LANVIN

noon WOOYOUNGMI

1.00 pm SONGZIO

2.00 pm RYNSHU

3.00 pm ROMAIN KREMER

4.00 pm QASIMI

5.00 pm PAUL SMITH

6.00 pm AGNÈS B.

IMAGE: John Tan

TOMMY COX|FROM DIRTY JERSEY

2009-12-21T21:25:00.015-05:00

Featuring Francisco Van Benthum SS 2010 Collection

Name|Tommy Cox

Age|19 Years Younger

Homebase|Dirty Jersey

1. Could you tell us about your background and what your goals career-wise after modeling?

I was born in Okinawa, Japan, but grew up in dirty Jersey riding skateboards and jumping bikes. My future plans? I have no idea. I never look that far ahead. I would love to open my own bar, restaurant, or maybe a pizzeria...I love pizza!

2. What career did you want pursue prior to modeling?

My mom wanted me to pursue a career in the hairstyling industry. She used to have a hair salon business. With modeling now, that idea is taking a back seat. My mom and my stepdad have been very encouraging about my modeling career. They are my biggest fans.

3. Currently you have two tattoos. Could you tell us what these tattoos mean to you? Are you planning to get more?

The two tattoos are "Drink!" written on my chest and "One Day At A Time" on my arm. With "Drink!" I went drinking with a few friends of mine, we decided we needed to do one more stupid thing before we graduated from high school. The one on my arm is to remind me not to get ahead of myself. Life's too short to be thinking about tomorrow. Enjoy the moment you have presently. More tattoos, hell, yeah!

4. What's your favorite destination modeling has taken you? Could you share with us an outrageous experience?

Hands down, Tokyo. I would love to share the outrageous experience with your readers but I am afraid it would be unprintable. It involves quite a few individuals in a foreign land. You get the picture...

5. What's your favorite shoot you have done so far editorially?

I don't know. They all kinda feel the same after a while. I just recently returned from Japan after working there for three months. The Japanese view fashion very differently than Americans, so that was interesting for me to see.

6. If you had a choice, where would be your ideal place to be?

Anywhere where there's sun, good people, and plenty of great brew to go around.

7. Which song would best summarize you as a individual? Why this particular track?

"Tequila aka What Happened?" by Sublime. I can totally relate to it.

8. From your perspective, what are the pros and cons of being a male model? Can a model get whatever he wants?

Pros are traveling, free drinks, and access to beautiful women. Cons are Milan—I dislike being there.

I don't think a model can get everything he/she wants, unless the individual is making loads of money. I think all that matters is we get what we need.

9. Describe your personal style.

Jersey!

10. Your motto in life.

You only live once!

AGENT: George Brown/Dave Forthergill

IMAGES: Colin Angus/www.colinangusphotography.com

FASHION EDITOR/CONCEPT/CASTING: John Tan

GROOMING: Fumiakin Akagawa/www.fumiakin.com

MODEL: Tommy Cox/Red

COPY EDITOR: Jonathan Shia

Special thanks to George/Dave at Red Models, Klara Verhaert at Station Service PR for Franciso Van Benthum, Colin/Diana Angus and Fumiakin Akagawa for their support.

CLOTHING:

Francisco Van Benthum-www.franciscovanbenthum.com

Bailey Of Hollywood-www.baileyhats.com

Vans-www.vans.com

70 POSTS LATER...A SPECIAL THANKS!

2009-12-31T11:11:00.003-05:00

From a reproduction of painting "Vase des roses"

by French Artist Henri Fantin-Latour (1836-1904)

WWW.JOHNTANCASTING.BLOGSPOT.COM

would like to express a "Special Thanks!"

to the following models and artists,

without whom, the blog would not have existed.

To my amazing collaborators-photographers, hair and makeup teams.

Special, special thanks to photographer/filmmaker
Bell Soto for his tireless support and creative contributions.

The designers and their pr firms for lending the collections

to be featured.

The modeling agents and their respective agencies for

their time and effort.

My text editors, Jonathan Shia and Brady Donnelly

for coming to the rescue at all times.

To the supporters and followers who kept coming back...

Here's to more postings in 2010! Cheers, John.

ACTORS:

Lucas Till

Paul Iacono

Gabriel Mann

MENSWEAR LABELS:

Shipley & Halmos

Thomas Engel Hart

PR:

Gio Metodiev|Dolce & Gabbana

ART CURATOR:

Gene Kogan

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Kurt Mangum

MODELS:

Nick Hinman|Wilhelmina

Miles Garber|DNA

Petey Wright|Ford

Joseph Culp|Fusion

Samuel Waldman|Ford

Cosmo MacDonald|Premiere|New York

Roy Pratt|ReQuest

Harry Wakefield|ReQuest

Marcel Castenmiller|DNA

Marko Brozic|Premiere|Major

Jason Rotan|Ford

Andy Shane|Next

Thomas Hassler|Fusion

Kevin Taylor|ReQuest

Alex Goldson|Fusion

Michael Whittaker|DNA

Dennis Johnson|New York

Paolo Anchisi|Ford

Frey Mudd|Red

Will Defiel|DNA

Thiago|New York

Jerome|DNA

Todd Hudson|Wilhelmina

Daniel Liu|FM2

Asa Fox|Ford

Stephen Feltner|DNA

Luke Lysdahl|Basic

Zachary Kinsella|DNA

Ryan Thomson|New York

Gene Fedorenko|Red

Allen Roth|Red

Zachary Dufft|VNY

Michael Klein|ReQuest

Michael Elmquist|DNA

Justin Barnhill|Adam

Erik Brooman|Empire

Clinton Jorgensen|DNA

Kenny Wayne Hugenell|Red

Matt Masterson|ReQuest

Mikus Lasmanis|ReQuest

Spencer Brown|Red

Jules Hamilton|Adam

Martin Gruca|Ford

Jan Vlas|VNY

Ian O'Brien|Ford

Rico Nieves|Ford

Matt Schmitt|Ford

Marc Herron|Adam

Douglas Neitzke|Ford

James Mangum|ReQuest

Anthony Gelfand|ReQuest

Niclas Gillis|VNY

Nils Lawton|DNA

Niels Raabe|DNA

Fredrik Ferrier|Fusion

Chris Pulliam|Wilhelmina

Keith Browning|ReQuest

Grayson Vaughan|DNA

Michael Hopwood|B1

Kyle Saunders|Ford

Brendon Wrightson|ReQuest

Tomasz|VNY

John Cherkas|VNY

Colby Jamar|Major

Tommy Cox|Red

Keenan Brand|Ford

and the very first model that

appeared in this blog:

Michael Vontsolos|Red

HAPPY NEW YEAR! MORE TO COME IN 2010!

Artwork: Cover Art from New Order's LP|CD

"Power, Corruption & Lies".

Art Directed and designed by Peter Saville.

From a reproduction of painting "A Basket Of Roses"

by French Artist Henri Fantin-Latour (1836-1904)

MILES GARBER|I AM JUST MILES.

2009-12-16T00:38:00.023-05:00

17 QUESTIONS WITH

MUSICIAN|MODEL|ARTIST
MILES GARBER

Full Name: Miles Philip Garber

Age: 19

Hometown: Originally from New York, grew up in Hollywood

Can you tell me about your family background?

I come from a really, really large family but I grew up with just my mom. My dad left before I was born, so I was raised in a single-parent household. I never met my dad.

I would like to find him one day...I feel like I have a lot of mental preparation I have to do before I meet him. There are so many things that could happen when I finally meet my dad. We could end up fighting, we could end up crying, or we could end up yelling. It's a big thing; I am becoming a man now so meeting the guy who is suppose to teach you how to be a man and never was there. There is a lot of anger there and just a lot of conflicting emotions. I think it is really important in my development as a man to meet my dad and get closure on the issue. I am not at the point where I feel I am ready to tackle that yet.

How does the fact you didn't have a dad in your everyday life affect you as a individual?

I have to grow up faster and I have to be my own man. At eight, I was already doing everything myself pretty much. I was going out on my own at thirteen and coming home at four in the morning after a night out with my friends. It forces you to be very independent from others. My mom works all the time to support me, so no one was around besides my mom to take care of me. Sometimes I wish I had siblings but I always have lots of friends that are older than me, so they all kind of become my big brothers. I think the idea of having siblings comes and goes for me. I don't know what it would be like to have them, of course. I wonder about it, but at the same time, it is never gonna happen. I often wonder what would happen if my mom got married again and they decided to have a kid. I was thinking that it would be quite weird since I am 19 now. I am very protective of my mom, so I don't usually get close to the guys she dates cause I don't trust them. She does what she wants.

How did the career in modeling come about?

I did some modeling when I was younger but I hated it because it was in LA and it was such a cattle call and so many people were doing it.

It's a a funny story actually. I was on the street skateboarding. I was 15 at the time, and this guy is in his car, and my friends and I are making fun of his car because we thought it was a really lame green car. I am sure in his mind, he thought it was cool. We thought he was gonna come out to fight us because we were making fun of it. We all stood up because back then, we used to get into fights a lot. Turns out he wanted to know if I was interested in modeling and gave me his card. He was an agent with LA models.

I went in and they signed me to try it for a year or two. I didn't like it and didn't do anything anyways. Whenever there were castings, I would skip all my castings. I didn't want to be known as some hot guy and I definitely didn't think this modeling would sit well with my skateboard buddies. I got made fun of so much because I went for it.

When I got back to NY a couple of months ago, I felt differently. I am more grown up now, so I decided to give it a try. I went to a bunch of meetings and agencies and DNA picked me up. I am having lots of fun with it.

What intrigues you about modeling now?

I like that it keeps you so busy. I am constantly being requested to see so many different people. Now it is a lot of fun...It is a different experience than in LA. People here are way cooler to work with. It is such a great experience and I am very thankful for this opportunity. My friends are proud of me now. They understand a lot more now. I think it brings a bit of stress to them because I am so busy. At the same time, they are so proud of me that I am focusing on a career instead of just hanging out all the time and not working. They are always checking out magazines to see if I am in there. They might go online to check out my agency portfolio and make fun of me but at the same time, they are saying things like good job dude. They call me "Model Boy" and I will tell them I don't think of myself like that. I might do that but when I am not working, I am just Miles.

Tell me some of the other non-modeling projects you are working on.

I am a musician so I have my band, Il Moro—we're four members (I am the lead singer of the band)—it means the moor in Italian. I was looking at da Vinci while I was doing research for school. The name of this guy popped up. His last name is Il Moro. He is the first guy that owned da Vinci's painting when no one else wanted or cared about it. I thought that was cool.

I have also my solo project called Jack Mac Johnny. I play acoustic, super raw, bluesy stuff. I haven't done anything in a couple of months. IL Moro is just focusing on recording our demo and probably going on tour this summer.

How would you describe the type of music Il Moro plays?

It's kind of weird...a mix of all the music we listened to growing up combined together. A lot of old-school punk influence and at the same time, a lot of '90s alternative music with a throw back to '70s Black Sabbath and stuff. A mixture of old and the new. My singing is kind of soulful and bluesy. Our band takes the time to perfect the performance and focus on writing songs that are meaningful with structure.

What separates your band from all the other bands out there?

There is so much junk out there, the worst quality for the big bucks. I think what makes us different from the other bands out there is that we are really into song integrity. We have very old-school beliefs in music. We also believe that you have to know the instruments that you are playing with inside and out. I think the bands I see now that are popular and playing, they don't know their instruments. It is all Pro Tools. It is mostly manufactured. Their dads knew a producer so of course, they are gonna get signed. Even worse is when they hire a stylist to style their looks...like, you don't have an identity? I grew up listening to punk rock, you make music for yourself and express your individuality through music, not following what's cool for the moment.

I have bands that I love (Fucked Up and Gallows) that are blowing up right now, they are getting really popular and I am happy for them. I have respect for them because I remember seeing them in LA when no one knew them. They were selling merchandise, promoting themselves...trying to get paid and trying to make money. Now they are happening and that's the way to do it. They have already evolved into something different, but it is still the same band and the same music...just a larger scale. They didn't sell out.

Having integrity in your music is so important. Being proud of your music, not just having someone else write your music or having them change your image to make it marketable. The musicians I like are not always the most attractive visually but they will outdo you playing the guitar any day of the week. It is quite sad when people judge you based on your image and not what you are about.

Tell us about your artwork.

I grew up with the graffiti scene in LA. I grew up with all the graffiti guys so that's how I learn. I learn techniques and what's considered acceptable. Graffiti is very hierarchical, especially in LA. If you are not bringing in what is accepted, you will get walked all over. It is a hard thing to learn. I don't even consider myself in that calibre. The guys I grew up with are amazing! When I came to NY, I just put down the markers and picked up the paint brush and canvas and I really wanted to start doing art shows. I saw a lot of my older friends doing them and getting really established now. It looks like it is a lot fun so when I came out here, I started doing shows. I was like having a show a week. Right now, I am a bit too busy to get another one cooking.

What's your favorite piece you have done?

It is untitled. It is for this gallery in Brooklyn called 3rd Ward Gallery. I did a live painting with my friend Greg. There are two teams, the other team is very finely trained artists and we created something very raw, just going with our gut instincts and attacking it. It probably the most rewarding painting experience I ever had. The reason is that I wasn't feeling frustrated. A lot of times for a show, I have to race against the clock to get a piece done in time, and the piece has to be good because it represents me and go with my portfolio of work to date. That's why I love the live painting because it is what it is. If you mess up, you mess up, you just go with it. It felt like how art should feel. It is to get your emotions out.

Tell us about your solo music.

It all started with some acoustic stuff I was doing with Siggy (My bandmate and best friend), then I was working on it on my own. It was meant to be made for my girlfriend at the time. Just me and my acoustic guitar, singing.

Is there a particular song that is more meaningful to you than other songs?

I wrote a song called "Any Man." It is about any guy in the world who can get a job, get the girl you want etc., and then in the middle, it switches into, I don't necessarily wanna be just any guy, I want to be me. At the time, I was in a very serious relationship and I was graduating high school and she was a very big deal to me.

Why do you think it is so important to be "cool" in youth culture? For example, so many models comes into town and the first thing they want to do is to go to any club or party and get trashed.

I honestly think it is so easy to be bored, so why not go to the clubs, so why not get trashed. Also, especially in NY, you gotta go to the clubs. Oh, I got into this club for free because of who I am...It is ridiculous!

I met a guy when I first came to the city, I was dragged to go to a club. I was bored and thought, why not. He had weed with him and thought it would be cool to show me and the girls at the club he got the goods. I could tell he never smoked weed in his life. Some guys go to clubs just to feel cool. It is just building a false persona and not what they are really about. I don't need to be in the "IN" crowd. Being cool is a state of mind, you don't have to prove anything.

There is a stereotype of the kind of people that work in the fashion industry. As a new model, what's your view of this?

Before I started, I heard all these unbelievable, terrifying stories about modeling but as I start meeting people and collaborating with the people I have met so far, it's been so wonderful. Everyone has been so generous, down to earth, cool, and supportive. So I am very grateful and that it hasn't been at all like the preconceived notion I had of modeling. All the casting directors I have met are always pleasant and show no attitude. In every industry there are gonna be some things that are sketchy and those unlucky few are going to experience it. I feel sympathetic to those who have to experience it. I haven't, so I am very thankful for that. I think you just have to have thick skin and learn to say "I am not comfortable with this"...no one can make you do anything you don't want to. My agents are always looking out for me...they have our backs and look out for us.

What's your favorite shoot you have done so far and why?

This shoot we just did, honestly. Even though it was quite cold and it was raining. It wasn't about just being handsome and being a model. It's more about what I am into and incorporating it into the vision of the shoot. I felt like I was part of the creative process. A lot of times, models are always being instructed what to do and we are there to pose and that's it.

What's your view on how people perceive the idea of a model?

People probably think of models as stupid or arrogant. Sometimes people treat you differently, especially in NY, when they find out that you are a model. There is such a big buzz about models, from reality shows, fashion shows, and magazines. To me, modeling is just a job, and when I am not working, I am just Miles...

What's your personal style like?

Very Californian. Vans 24/7. All basic all-American wear. I find clothes wherever. I like dressing up too...suits, Brit-rocker style. Outrageous fashion—I have worn dresses before, but in a rebellious kind of way. The key is that whatever you choose to wear, it needs to be in your own skin, not trying to be something you are not or cannot pull it off. That's the secret.

What would be the perfect editorial concept?

It might sound cliche, but me and my band hanging out at a coffee shop, chilling, at the studio, having a conversation. Basically, me in my everyday life and depicting a day in the life of Miles, the musician.

AGENT: Gene Kogan/DNA

IMAGES: Michael Brager

FASHION EDITOR/CONCEPT/CASTING: John Tan

MODEL: Miles Garber/DNA

GROOMING: Bridget Brager

COPY EDITOR: Jonathan Shia

Special thanks to Gene and all at DNA Models/Men's Division; Dace Morris/Director Marketing and Communications at Rogue for their great support.

For a full editorial on Rogue S/S 2010 Collection featuring Miles Garber—Please visit: www.visualtalesmagazine.blogspot.com

CLOTHING:

Rogue-www.rouge.us.com

Converse-www.converse.com

American Apparel-www.americanapparel.com

Ray Ban-www.rayban.com

LIGHT IN THE DARK|KURT MANGUM

2009-12-13T22:17:00.031-05:00

10 QUESTIONS WITH

PHOTOGRAPHER
KURT MANGUM
Homebase|Venice, California

You relocated from New York to the West Coast almost two years ago. Was that a difficult decision? How has it panned out for you?

The initial decision to leave New York wasn't easy. I had a lot going on there, but the year I left a number of things began to really turnover within my personal life. With that, I felt an ever increasing pressure to vacate New York and its lifestyle. I made a choice sometime that summer that I needed to move. I just didn't really know how or where I was going to end up. I was making a lot of trips upstate on the Metro North, or with friends who had cars, and was seriously considering trying out life in the Catskills or something to that effect. When autumn rolled around, I started taking a lot of trips to the west coast. I went sailing for the first time, I hung out in the desert, and I hiked through some of Los Angeles's surrounding Mountain ranges. Around the end of that year I also happened to meet my girlfriend, and the decision to move became quite clear.

When it comes to my landscapes and narratives, the West Coast has been great. Los Angeles, and California in general, have obviously been amazing resources for this work. I really do enjoy spending time on the West Coast, but there are times when I miss New York and how it works as a city, my friends, and the constant human contact you have there. For me, it's just that I grew up in a small town in Michigan, and I need a lot of nature around me. It's important for me to have time to myself and to have the ability to go to a desert or forest or drive up the coast.

How have you evolved as an individual and as an artist?

That's a tough question. I don't think I've changed all that much as an individual, but maybe my friends' opinions differ with mine on that. I guess if anything I've slowed down my approach to my practice, and I think my life in general. I spend the majority of my time working on photographs, reading books, and writing music, and less time going out to bars. I very much enjoy discovering new ways to enhance my photographic skills.

I think making the decision to go back to working with film has helped in that regard. I try not to rely on the post world of my computer as much as I did formerly. Although I do scan my film and usually make my prints from digital files, it is very important for me to create an image exactly how I want it in-camera. It's less work later and I feel it captures the moment of what I am witnessing with more accuracy. I'm not a fan of doing major rendering or cropping my photographs after they have been taken, but I am in no way a purist. I believe that all photographic images are altered by their photographer at all steps of the process. It's impossible to truly capture reality, so why get caught up in keeping it pure? For me, it's a matter of wanting to know the method to recreate a mood and tone in the instant it is occurring, and by knowing my craft I can achieve that exact thing repeatedly. I've made a lot of mistakes over the years with my work and I really try to learn from them so I won't miss a moment when it is happening.

Your environmental landscape images are both striking and haunting, and they evoke feelings of isolation with almost biographical sensibility. How do you approach these images?

I tend not to overanalyze my process. I have ideas for projects, threads I follow, and when I'm shooting I pursue a very particular way that light and color interact with each other to create a narrative. My work is very personal, and I really get wrapped up in it, sometimes to the point where I won't show other people. But at the same time, I try to keep my subject matter open for interpretation. I don't want someone to feel my presence in my images. I guess my goal is that I want the viewer to feel as though they are experiencing it themselves so they can take away their own feelings or stories from the image.

When did your passion for photography first develop? What was your first camera, and which of your own early images truly reinforced your love for the craft?

My parents bought me a camera as a gift when I was in high school, a Ricoh. I don't recall the model number, but it was the equivalent to the Pentax K1000 - cheap, but a great little camera that could use all the same lenses as the Pentax. It was completely manual so I was forced to learn all the technical information to get a properly exposed image.

I think I had asked for a camera so I could take photos of my friends' punk bands at shows around the Midwest. I was into capturing the live performance and still have a number of photos from that time period. A lot of them aren't composed very well, but that's when I first started to understand how to manipulate light with a flash in order to create mood in an image. Coincidentally, at this time I accepted the fact that I wasn't very skilled at painting, but I strongly desired to have an outlet that would give me a similar sense of creating narratives and images that were floating around in my head.

I didn't really become too interested in landscapes until a road trip that I took with two friends from Michigan to the Northwest in 1998. We were at the Olympic Peninsula in Washington and I took some black and white photographs of a rock outcropping in the ocean. It wasn't until later that fall, a few months after our trip, that I developed the negatives. I was so excited about what I had captured I couldn't stop staring at the pictures. I remember getting chills and having such overwhelming excitement about what I had captured on film. It was like Christmas or a birthday when you are a child and you get some great present. Unfortunately, I lost those negatives along with about four years worth of work in one of my many moves. I do have a couple prints left from that trip but I'll never fully get over losing them. Not because the images were that great but because that experience holds such significance for me historically.

Kurt's Cameras

Where were the images shown here taken? Were any of the experiences particularly memorable?

The majority of them are from the United States. I love cross country road trips - when I was in high school, I would daydream about traveling all day long. I really fell behind in a lot of my classes because of it. I had an obsession with wanting to hop trains across country. Maybe I was a hobo in a past life. I'm still very interested in transient culture. I even attempted to live on a boat when I first moved out here, which I had gotten for free off of Craigslist. It was a dilapidated 30 foot long Chris-Craft cabin cruiser docked in the marina. It didn't really work out like I had planned.

I've driven across America so many times now, most of the photos are from those trips. A lot are also from Michigan and around the town I grew up in. I have certain areas there that I revisit every year to see how they've changed.

One of my most memorable pictures is from an abandoned jail in Kansas City. It's of a young man looking through a wall. I took it when I was a teenager but rediscovered it in my mid-twenties. A friend and I had driven to Kansas City and we were introduced to some locals by a couple of our friends. They asked if we wanted to go see a jail in the woods (I've always been infatuated with abandoned decaying architecture... but then again, who isn't?). We went immediately. It was eerie, extremely old and overgrown, everything was falling apart, rusted and graffitied with satanic symbols. Your typical empty jail. We were able to go through just about the entire building, all the cells, even into a maximum security room that had an enormous steel door where the cells were about the size of a very small closet. The highlight of the tour from our friendly but somewhat intimidating guides was an electric chair they had discovered on an earlier trip. I am pretty sure it was just part of an old furnace.

This image, so many years after it was taken, set a new tone and direction in my work at that time it was rediscovered. To this day it still carries a lot of weight for me. I didn't really know what I was doing when it was taken but it somehow was able to capture the tone of that whole experience. When I look at the photo now I remember all of the nooks and crannies that we went through in that building, and all the emotions I was feeling, that place was a powerful symbol. It was a very frightening atmosphere, filled with curiosity, not because it that was an empty disheveled building but because of the reality of what it once was. I use this image all the time as a personal reference when I'm out shooting now.

You have assisted some of the great art photographers, and you have been photographed by some of them as well. What did you learn from them?

Yes, of course I was quietly taking notes the entire time. My only genuine interests with modeling were to be able to travel and to have an in-depth look at how these working photographers utilized their craft. I was able to have small crash courses with a number of different great photographers. I made sure to pay close attention to their lighting techniques, what camera they used, how they interacted with coworkers on set, and have quick glimpses of their editing processes. Some of them were incredible to work with, others...not so much. You'd be surprised at how many working photographers don't know their f-stops and rely heavily on their photographic assistants.

When I moved to New York I really wanted to work as a fashion photographer. I was still shooting landscapes but didn't think I could ever make a living at it. I still don't know if I can. I had given up on band photography and was mostly interested in creating narratives. Fashion to me was a way of being able to do that - and it still is. It was my friends that pressured me to meet with agencies. When I signed with an agency in 2002 I stuck with it, because I figured it would allow me some opportunities I might not otherwise have if I had pursued assisting alone. I never really liked the actual modeling part (surprise). It's an industry I feel very conflicted about. I honestly just wanted to travel and meet people and I was lucky enough to be able to do just that.

Your images are very dreamlike. What subjects would you like to shoot that you haven’t yet had access to?

I have several at all times, but I'd rather not say because I'm starting to do research on new projects now. I will tell you, though, that the next ones will be predominantly in the desert.

Do you prefer film or digital? What is your view on photographers merging into filmmaking? Is that an area you would like to pursue?

Film, for sure. Both chrome and negative. I think digital is great, but film has magic and mystery trapped inside. I simply enjoy working with it and I like how it looks. People like making the argument between the two and when you really get down to crunching numbers, digital is able to achieve things that film could never do, but I just don't care what those things are. I've studied and will continue to learn both formats but when it comes to making a choice, I choose film.

I like that photographers are going into filmmaking. I mean, why not? Technology has made it relatively easy for anyone to be a multimedia artist. I'm into it, but I do feel that a lot of it is garbage. I'm not entirely convinced that this obsession and emphasis on instantaneous results is all that good. It seems to me that it's setting a standard of quality that is rapidly sinking. On top of that, it seems like people are fast-tracking their careers before they fully comprehend their craft or even industry, which can be dangerous to the economics of their practice. If someone takes the time to learn their medium and they produce quality work, I'm all for it. As for me, I've started shooting moving pictures a little more than I used to. I have projects I'm working on right now and will continue to work on, but I wouldn't dare call myself a filmmaker. I know very little about the industry.

Dior Homme by Hedi Slimane - that was a magic, golden moment in menswear. You were one of the Hedi Slimane's favorite models during that time. For you, as a model, what was that experience like? And now, as a photographer, what is your view of his work behind the camera?

I completely agree. Hedi was wonderful and an inspiration to be around. I feel extremely fortunate to have taken part in his shows and to have had a glimpse into his world. The entire Dior team at that time was extraordinary. They were focused and had concrete vision as to how the label was to be represented. Hedi orchestrated everything in such a great way - he set a tone for men's fashion that so many others were trying to catch up with, but a lot of times fell flat in comparison. It's not a mystery why, either. They all worked extremely hard.

Participating in those shows and in particular being exclusive to them changed a lot for me. Before that, my agency and I had pretty much ended our courting period. They were misrepresenting me and sending me out on humiliating editorials with bad photographers and even worse stylists. I honestly don't know why they didn't drop me before that. They would hardly acknowledge me and actually insulted me on a regular basis. They didn't believe me when I told them I was booked for Dior. They liked to treat me like I was naive. It was a weird power play with them. A lot of this was because the agents I ended up with weren't the ones I signed with. There was a merger at my agency at that time and the men's bookers changed hands. It gets really boring, so I won't get into it that much. Being a part of his shows at that time created an interest in me from top stylists, photographers and art directors around the world. It truly set the stage for me to be able to work with and meet some of the greatest people in fashion of our time. I've been very lucky and have been treated very well by almost all of them. It's those agents that get me worked up!

As for Hedi's photographs, I like them. When he was designing for Dior he was constantly taking photos. His archive must be enormous. I always look through his books when I come across them, they seem to me to be an extension of what he did with Dior. He's an artist with a vision and he's following through with it in everything he does. I respect that and try to utilize what I learned from my brief tenure at Dior and from its crew in my own practice. I try to do that with most things. I hope we have him contributing his ideas to fashion and art for a long, long time.

Now that you have removed yourself from the modeling industry, what is your view of it as a whole? What advice would you like to give the young kids who are new to this industry and trying to make it now?

Like I said before, I have conflicting views of the modeling industry. I always have and I think a lot of people do. It afforded me the ability to travel and meet a great deal of people, for which I am very grateful. It's an industry that can provide growth both financially and experientially for many people that pursue it, but ultimately I believe it is an industry too comfortable with exploitation that often perpetuates an archetype of what constitutes beautiful, and it can have devastating impacts on people that get too wrapped in what that image is. I've always felt that way, but for some reason I kept at it. Honestly, I'd say that for me it wasn't about making money because even though I was doing campaigns and shows like Dior, Marc Jacobs, BCBG, and H&M I didn't have a very large income. It provided me with stability while I was doing it, but I left the industry with empty pockets and it wasn't because I spent my earnings on frivolous things. A lot of those jobs just don't have big budgets for men. I guess if someone were to ask me if I thought they should pursue modeling as a way to make it, I'd tell them to pursue another dream instead, but if they want to use it as a way to travel and meet interesting people, or for the pure love of fashion, I would say by all means go for it and see what happens.

IMAGES: Kurt Mangum|www.kurtmangum.com

CONCEPT: John Tan

ASSOCIATE EDITOR: Brady Donnelly

Special thanks to Brady Donnelly, Kurt Mangum for reaching out, catching up, sharing his time and talent with us.

THE DUO|RICO NIEVES|MATT SCHMITT

2009-12-08T03:14:00.018-05:00

Name|Rico Nieves

Age|25

Homebase|Lorain, Ohio

1. How did you get into modeling?

I applied and entered the Ford Models/VMAN Model Search online. I won and I am on the current VMAN cover photographed by Nick Knight.

2. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to become an actor or a veterinarian.

3. What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I recently purchased my own home. I am a big homebody. I love to be at home, in my yard, always low key.

4. Models are always judged by their physical appearance. What do you think is your best feature?

I love my eyes. I have eyes like my parents. You can tell we are related just by looking at our eyes.

5. If you have to choose a song that would best describe you as a individual, which song would it be and why?

"Clocks" by Coldplay. There is something about the beat that makes me smile. It gives me a real mellow feeling.

6. What is your dream destination?

Paris. I dream of spending a week there exploring, living free.

7. Since this shoot has a gothic/primitive vibe about it, if you were held captive and you are only allow to bring five items with you to a desert island, what would those five items be?

Ipod; my best friend, Amber; boat, water bottles; and a blanket!

8. What's your motto in life?

Live life like it's your last day, tomorrow is never promised.

Name|Matt Schmitt

Age|17

Homebase|New Albany, Ohio

1. How did you get into modeling?

I was scouted online. I became the finalist in the Ford Models/VMAN Model Search.

2. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I always wanted to be a spy, like the kids in the movie Spy Kids. I actually wrote a letter to the President of the United States, asking him to place me in the C.I.A. I was a weird kid growing up, haha.

3. What is something people would be surprised to know about you?

I have six siblings. I am the second eldest in the group.

4. Models are always judged by their physical appearance. What do you think is your best feature?

People have said it's my lips, but I think looks make up 40% of the equation. Your personality will take you places your face can't.

5. If you had to choose a song that would best describe you as a individual, which song would it be and why?

"Don't Worry, Be Happy" by Bobby McFarrin! Haha! I love that song because so many people stress out over things too easily and end up making matters worse. I truly believe everything will work out in the end anyway.

6. What is your dream destination?

Anywhere with sand and waves.

7. Since this shoot has a gothic and primitive vibe about it, if you were held captive and you were only allowed to bring five essential items with you to a desert island, what would these five items be?

Ipod; my girl, unless the tribal girls are hot; my guitar; lifetime supply of ramen and a video camera so I can document me losing my mind.

8. What's your motto in life?

What does it profit a man if he gains the world and loses his soul, money can't buy life.

ACCESSORIES: Black Sheep And Prodigal Sons-www.blacksheepandprodigalsons.com

AGENT: Jesse Simon

IMAGES: Ken Pao-www.kenpao.com

FASHION EDITOR/CONCEPT/CASTING: John Tan

MODELS: Rico Nieves/Matt Schmitt/Ford

COPY EDITOR: Jonathan Shia

Please visit www.visualtalesmagazine.blogspot.com for the official exclusive feature editorial "The Duel".

Special thanks to Derrick R. Cruz @ Black Sheep And Prodigal Sons, Austin Sherbanenko @ Odyn Vovk, Ryan Turner and Jesse Simon and everyone at Ford Models for their support.

BESPOKEN S|S 2010|COLLEGIATE DAYS

2009-12-01T10:16:00.007-05:00

10 QUESTIONS WITH
MARC HERRON/ADAM

Full Name: Marc Herron
Age: 19
Homebase: Quebec, Canada

1. Could you tell us what's different bewteen modeling in Montreal vs. New York?
Well, from what I've experienced so far, modeling in New York simply just moves at much a faster pace than in Montreal.

2. Hockey is Canada's pride and passion. What are some things we should know about the sport that Americans might not know? Why do you think the sport is as talked about in Canada as, let's say, basketball or baseball are here? Does the crowd ever get insanely mad, like at soccer games in Europe?
Canadians' passion for hockey is like none other. Two years ago I was at the Montreal Canadians game where we defeated the Boston Bruins in the first round of the playoffs. Even though it was only the first round , one of the biggest riots in Montreal ensued. Police cars were flipped, Bruin's flags were burned, and people were going wild. Although this may not be the case for all Canadian teams, it definitely shows the passion we have for the sport and our teams.

3. You are still in school. What does your friends think about you entering the world of modeling?
It definitely varies. Most of my female friends take a much greater interest, and although my guy friends like to make jokes here and there, they are all really supportive.

4. The photo shoot is quite dreamlike and collegiate. How close to reality is the imagery to your everyday life? If it is far remote from it, what would be a locale for Marc to be in?
Well, it's not the exact image of my life. However, I love hanging out with friends and spending time outdoors. During the summer, my friends and I spend a lot of time at each other's country houses relaxing by the lake.

5. Food—Since becoming a model, can you eat whatever you want or do you have to be very careful about what you can intake? What types of food are your favorites?
Luckily my mother is a great cook so I rarely eat fast food. If I do eat out, I'm a big fan of Lebanese food.

6. Tell us about where you go to school, what your favorite subjects and why.
I'm currently in what's called Cégep. In Quebec, we graduate high school in grade 11. The next two years of school is Cégep, followed by three years of university. The scheduling and atmosphere in Cégep is very similar to university, except everyone is local. As for my favorite subject, I'd definitely have to say my Linear Algebra class. Most people hate math, but to me, it's like a game.

7. You recently did a shoot based on the concept of "Children of the Corn". Could you tell us your experience?
It was actually really interesting. We are out in a corn field and the four of us were wearing black suits with black boots haunting a girl in a white dress. In some shots I'm even wearing this creepy black mask. It was very eerie.

8. I always wonder how models mentally prepare themselves before a shoot, because you never quite know what the theme is until you arrive on the day at the set.
I don't really do anything out of the ordinary. I tend to listen to music before hand, but I'm usually always listening to music. Basically as long as I have my caffeine, I'm good to go.

9. What are your future plans career-wise besides modeling? What would be surprising for us to know about Marc?
Well, I am applying to business programs in university and I've always been really interested in marketing. But I'm the type of guy that really lives in the moment and I feel that things have a way of just working themselves out. So as of now, I don't really think about it much until I know what I want to do.

10. What makes Marc happy?
Friends, Family and Sports

11. Bonus Question: What's your motto in life?
Still trying to figure that one out.

AGENT: Kevin/Adam

IMAGES: Michael Brager

FASHION EDITOR/CONCEPT/CASTING: John Tan

MODEL: Marc Herron/Adam

COPY EDITOR: Jonathan Shia

Special thanks to Kevin at Adam Models, the guys at Bespoken, Joe Thiel, Jasmine and Hulian at Williamson PR for their support.

For a profile on Bespoken—Please visit the premiere issue of: www.visualtalesmagazine.com

CLOTHING:

Bespoken-www.bespokenclothiers.com

Vans-www.vans.com

Incognito Eyewear-www.incognitoeyewear.com

VISUAL TALES MAGAZINE

2009-11-30T03:38:00.006-05:00

MIDNIGHT LAUNCH 11.30.09

WWW.VISUALTALESMAGAZINE.COM

BOOK 1|DEPARTMENTS

WITH MODEL NICK HINMAN|WILHELMINA

Photographed by BELL SOTO

BOOK 2|FEATURES

WITH ACTOR LUKE GRIMES
Photographed by DUSTIN BEATTY

NIGHT HOTEL|SHORT CLIP

2009-11-30T16:57:00.007-05:00

From VISUAL TALES MAGAZINE

VISUAL TALES MAGAZINE|FILMS

Presents

A Short Clip

DIRECTED BY BELL SOTO

Featuring

DOLCE & GABBANA

S|S 2010 Collection

NIGHT HOTEL

Starring

Douglas Neitzke|Ford

Nick Hinman|Wilhelmina

THE MODEL SPEAKS: SAMUEL WALDMAN/שחור לבן הזכויות

2009-11-16T22:33:00.027-05:00

10 QUESTIONS WITH

SAMUEL WALDMAN/FORD

Traveller, Entrepreneur, Photographer, Up and Coming Model,

all wrap up in one package. Watch out!

Full Name: Samuel Waldman

Age: 19

Homebase: Springfield, Virginia, now resides in Los Angeles

1. What was the line that an agent/scout said to you that convinced you that modeling was your next career move?

What's the line that got me to model for? Does "Hello" count? I wasn't a hard sell, Ford turned me down when I was younger so when I came back two years later and they wanted represent me, I was elated !

2. I was told that you travel quite a bit. Could you tell me the places you have traveled to?

I've traveled to England, France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Hungary, the Netherlands, Cyprus, Greece, Turkey, Israel, Egypt, and Jordan, along with most of America. My favorite cities in the world, from what I've seen so far, are London, Tel Aviv, and Petra.

London is special to me because, as a 14 year old, it was my first foreign city I was bale to explore by myself. Last summer I traveled to Tel Aviv with my two friends David and Dan, we paid 15 dollars a night to sleep on mats on the roof of this hostel two blocks from the beach. The roof was packed with people from all over the world. I wouldn't have traded that experience for a five-star hotel room. Petra was by far the most spectacular sight: an entire ancient city carved out of a mountainside. At nightfall, the locals would line miles and miles of lit candle along to city path. I'll never forget that sight.

3. You created some new business ventures with your friends when you were in school. Could you tell me about some of these ventures? How did you get started?

Almost two years ago I moved to Boston to work with my friend David with his company TheCollegeParty, which threw weekly 18+ parties and used these events to introduce college students to new products.

Shortly after my arrival a new client, Honest Tea, had contacted David, wanting to give David and me the opportunity to market for a product seven days a week. Since I was the only permanent employee of this start-up marketing firm and the CEO was in the midst of graduating from college, it was up to me to do the required work so that Honest Tea would take us on as a client the next fall. My job was simple: pass out the bottled tea beverage to as many people on the street as possible. After one month and 5,000 bottles of tea, I had gotten our company its first client. By the start of the next school year, College Marketing Solutions was the new name, and we had 15 team members and two new clients.

4. What advice would you give to any other young entrepreneurs out there with a dream? Should they go for it?

What I would say to any young entrepreneurs out there: A start-up business is not a get-rich-quick scheme. Even some of the best ideas in the world took time to turn a profit.

5. You have a blog that is quite interesting. Could you tell us about the origin of it? I was told you have gotten some angry emails about some of your postings. Why is that?

It's not as much a blog as it is a stream of Tweets and Facebook statuses. I never liked the "Sam Waldman is going out for lunch." I just didn't think anyone would care to read them anymore. So I started by giving them my own spin, things like, "Sam Waldman has big tits." Some were sexual, like "Sam Waldman has slept with every Disney Princess except for Belle...who had a thing for bestiality." Others were intended to be hurtful.: "Sam Waldman wishes everyone would stop assuming he cares about them." But I think I started getting the angry e-mails when I put up "Sam Waldman doesn't like fat kids," where some of my more husky friends felt attacked. I had to explain to them that like one of my statuses had said ("Sam Waldman has equal opportunity hatred") I don't try and single people out , I just write what makes me laugh, sometimes what makes me laugh is shocking, and that's the whole point, to shock people out of their chairs.

6. You're also really into photography. Tell us about that and how you view the world you live in through your photography.

I love photography. As a little kid all I wanted was my Dad's Nikon EM, my grandparents bribed me with a Japanese Edition Canon E if I learned my multiplication tables. I think I enjoyed the control. Not only did everyone always look to the photographer for direction, but with a camera in your hands, you have the ability to make the inherently ugly into something so truly beautiful.

7. Being young is all about living life and soaking it in as fast as possible. What's the most dangerous thing that you have encountered?

While I was working in Boston we had a 1970's Ice Cream Truck to hand out Honest Tea and our other products. It was a giant iron box on a pair of small wheels with bad brakes. I'd have to drive 40 miles north of Boston to pick up 500 cases of tea. There were times driving back with all that weight in the back I was sure we were gonna crash be crushed by hundreds of pounds of bottled herbal beverages.

8. You have so much energy and ambition. Where do you see yourself down the road of life?

I don't want to stop living and learning. In five years I could be digging wells in third-world countries, or working as mid-level sales assistant for a toothpaste company. Neither would surprise me and both would teach me something new, and that is my only standard for the "what's next?" question.

9. What makes Sam Waldman happy?

What makes me happy? So many things: a good book, a new movie, a catchy song. I'm easy to please, my girlfriend and I went to the aquarium recently and I couldn't have been happier. Also, seeing my family is always an upside. Just recently my whole family congregated in Union Square for about 10 minutes before we all dispersed and went back to Virginia, Chicago, L.A., and downtown, but I'm always happy to see them.

10. If you had to choose a song that best represents you, which one would it be?

"You Sexy Thing" by Hot Chocolate

11.Bonus Question: What's your motto in life?

"Keep your chin up, because the clouds might part and the sun will rise and you'll be too busy looking at your feet."

AGENT: Jesse Simon/Ford

IMAGES: Bell Soto-www.bellsotostudio.com

FASHION EDITOR/CONCEPT/CASTING: John Tan

Model: Sam Waldman/Ford

Special thanks to Jesse Simon, everyone at Ford Models, Brian Lichtenberg and Heather Hayhurst at The News for their support.

CLOTHING:

Brian Lichtenberg (Jeans)-www.brianlichtenberg.com

Cheap Monday (Tee Shirts)-www.cheapmonday.com

Alexander McQueen (Sweater)-www.alexandermcqueen.com

PREMIERE: ACTOR LUCAS TILL FROM THE FILM BATTLE: LOS ANGELES

2009-11-10T10:13:00.013-05:00

Digital Shot taken on set by John Tan

Jacket and shirt, both by Davidelfin; bow tie and scarf

(worn as cummerbund) by Masatomo; trouser by John Galliano

19 QUESTIONS

WITH LUCAS TILL

FROM THE SET OF

BATTLE: LOS ANGELES

Age: 19

Hometown: Texas, lived in Marietta, Georgia

Selected Film Credits: Walk The Line, Hannah Montana, Fear Clinic, The Spy Next Door (2010), Battle: Los Angeles (2011)

1. What was life like growing up in Marietta, Georgia?

I grew up outside of Atlanta in a residential area. Looking back on it, I think I had one of the best childhood anyone could wish for. I went to public school my entire life. It was a completely necessary piece to the puzzle as far as keeping your head on straight from an entertainment industry perspective.

2. What drawn you to wanting to be an actor?

I was 10, I was too small for football. I needed something to do.

3. I was told that you have a knack for voice impersonations, what are your specialties?

You asked this as if you know me well, because only people who have spent an extended amount of time around me would know that I enjoy doing voice impersonations. My favorite one would have to be my German accent, because I studied German for 4 years. It's a voice that I can manipulate any way I want because I know the ins and outs of the enunciation perfectly.

4. What are your family's views about you getting into show business in the beginning vs. now?

My family was always supportive from the beginning and their opinion hasn't changed since.

Left: Jacket, trouser and shoes, all by Petar Petrov; shirt by KZO;

tie by Shipley & Halmos

Right: Shirt by A&V; tie by Shipley & Halmos

5. You made the trek from Georgia to LA at a very young age to pursue an acting career, was it an easy transition?

I am actually still in the transitional phase. I would be lying if I said it wasn't hard to move away from home. Unlike Georgia, LA isn't the kind of place where you can greet any stranger on the street with a friendly hello. So, I'm not done with the transition yet so ask me again sometime in the future.

6. Do you have particular funny memories that you could share about the road to Hollywood?

Here's something funny about my move to Hollywood: I didn't have a car, didn't have a clue what my new home will be like and I didn't know anyone. Actually, it's more depressing than funny...

7. How do you decide which roles to take? Does the casting process becomes easier after you have enjoyed some successes with Hannah Montana?

Hannah Montana was a great experience but it doesn't exactly open doors for you in the casting process. I still have to go through the auditions like any other actors. As to how I choose my roles, it's either I like the material offer to me or not.

8. How would you envision your acting career going forward?

I used to say where I want my career to go from here but I think I would rather say I just want to keep doing good work . I would like to be prolific but stretched out over the course of my whole life, not short lived. Rushing it just creates a huge amount of raw attention that means nothing to me. I don't want to end up on a VH1 special about "Where Are They Now?" ten years down the road.

9. You costar with recording artist, Taylor Swift in her hit music video, You Belong With Me. You got a chance to portray a football player in the music video, can you tell us about that experience?

It was a dream of mine to play a football star in a movie since I was a kid. My dream came true a few years later when I got the chance to do it AND make out with Taylor Swift, all at the same time!!! What more is there to say? In all seriousness, Taylor is a sweet girl and super talented. I cannot believe I had the chance to work with her.

Left: Jacket and shirt, both by Masatomo; bow tie by Brioni

Right: Coat, shirt, trouser and shoes, all by Burberry Prorsum;

ascot, stylist's own; gloves by Louis Vuitton

10. Early this year, you costar in a film with Jackie Chan playing a Russian spy (The Spy Next Door-Release Date: January 15, 2010 ), what was the experience like working with Jackie? How did you research for the role?

Working with Jackie was one of the coolest experiences of my life to date. He was one of my idols growing up. My dad and I would get Jackie Chan films and watch them together. My favorite was "The Legend of the Drunken Master." As far as research for the role goes, I just played a lot of GTA IV to get the accent down.

11. Television: Fear Clinic: That was a major departure for you. What frightens you? What was it like working with Robert Englund (Freddy Krueger fame)?

Working on Fear Clinic was a departure as an actor for me but I enjoyed it. I am not frighten by anything because I am fearless, just kidding! I am actually very afraid of heights and spiders. Working with Robert Englund was amazing, I actually shared a few scenes with him so definitely check it out!

12. You just went to Thailand recently to work on a film project, what is your latest project about?

I went to Thailand to shoot a project that I cannot reveal much. What I can tell you is the title of the film, it's call Vacation 8. I had a lot of fun, the experience was unforgettable.

I am currently shooting another film called Battle: Los Angeles. My costars are Michelle Rodriguez, Bridget Moynahan and Aaron Eckhart. I played a corporal. I am having the time of my life! (See photo)

Digital photos taken on set of Battle: Los Angeles

13. We are told that you are a video game fanatic, could you tell us your top five favorites?

Yes, I have an addiction, and it is video games. I've been known to drop $300 on one trip to the store, just because I needed a cure for boredom. Here's my list of favorite games:

Final Fantasy 7, Fallout 3, Call of Duty, Modern Warfare, Gears of War and Final Fantasy Tactics

14. You are also very active in supporting causes you believe in, can you tell us some of those charities you are supporting?

I am an ambassador for Power of Youth (DoSomething.org). It is an organization that introduces influential youth to lead by example in volunteerism and philanthropic as our civil responsibility. I would also, in the future, like to show my support for the USO.

15. As a public figure, which part of fame do you enjoy and which part you could do without?

As long as proper respect are given, there would be nothing wrong with fame. The problems that arise, from my perspective, is when people treat you like you are a monkey in a cage, and they tell you when to flip as if we're supposed to listen. That kind of fame I can live without. That being said, I am very thankful for the amount of influence I might have on others thru my work. If I could be a positive role model for someone, that's great!

Robe and vest by John Galliano; shirt by Burberry Prorsum;

trouser by Thomas Engel Hart

16. What would be your advice for any young individual that wants to pursue an acting career like the one you have, knowing what you know now?

If you want to get into the business I have some selfish advice: We all like attention, but make sure you want to be an entertainer for all the right reasons. Do not get into it for the glitz, paparazzi and to be told how cool you are, because that's when entertainment becomes mediocre. I say it's selfish advice because I am tired of seeing superficial untalented individuals making millions for B quality work. I wanted to be more impressed when I go to the movies.

17. What makes Lucas Till happy?

Video games and girls makes Lucas happy.

18. Your favorites/not favorites things:

Color—I never had a favorite color

Music—Heavy Metal

Clothes—Tee shirts and jeans

Food—Beef jerky

Word/Sound that you dislike to hear—Hate the noise of people smacking their food in my ear

Curse word—I like all of them equally because there is an appropriate time for each one to be socially effective

19. Last Question: Do you think this is a good time to be a youth growing up in America? How would you like to see our world in the near future?

I think it is always a good time to grow up in America as long as you appreciate the freedom we have. I think sometimes we all take our freedom for granted. As Americans, we have to set the right example for the rest of the world to see, otherwise, everyone else in the world that cannot achieve the things we do would think we are a spoiled country and assume all Americans to be that way.

LUCAS TAKES THE PLUNGE:

IMAGES: Alex Freund-www.alexfreund.com

FASHION EDITOR/PRODUCER: John Tan

GROOMING: Anna Bernabe for Davines-www.annabernabe.com

Shot on location at the Downtown Standard Hotel, LA

For more information, please visit: www.standardhotels.com/losangeles/

Special thanks to Scott Wine @ The Osbrink Agency, everyone at The Standard Downtown for their help and support.

To Lucas Till for his time and collaboration and most importantly, for diving into the pool.

CLOTHING:

Thomas Engel Hart-www.thomasengelhart.com

John Galliano-www.johngalliano.com

A&V-www.andv.lt.com

Davidelfin-www.davidelfin.com

Masatomo-www.masatomo-paris.com

Burberry Prorsum-www.burberry.com

Zadig & Voltaire-www.zadig-et-voltaire.com

Petar Petrov-www.petarpetrov.com

Louis Vuitton-www.louisvuitton.com

Brioni-www.brioni.com

KZO-www.kzocinematics.com

CLASS ACT-FALL SPECIAL

2009-09-30T21:47:00.069-04:00

Dennis Johnson-The Athlete/Bottega Veneta

Roy Pratt-The Brainiac/Thom Browne

Spencer Brown-The Rebel/Dior Homme

Paolo Anchisi-The Academic/Patrik Ervell

(hat by Thom Browne)

Douglas Neitzke-The Artist/Odyn Vovk
(sweater by Patrik Ervell)
Nick Hinman-The Elitist /John Varvatos
(Chain by Chrome Hearts)

AGENTS: Dennis Johnson/NY-Agel Raya; Roy Pratt/ReQuest-Oscar Garnica; Douglas Neitzke/Paolo Anchisi/Ford-Jesse Simon; Nick Hinman/Wilhelmina-Alexis Badke; Spencer Brown/Red-Dave Fothergill

IMAGES: Bell Soto-www.bellsoto.com

FASHION EDITOR/CASTING: John Tan

RETOUCHING: Brandon Wickenkamp

GROOMING:

For Dennis Johnson, Spencer Brown and Nick Hinman—

Anna Bernabe for Lancome-www.annabernabe.com

For Roy Pratt, Paolo Anchisi and Douglas N—

Hair by Kelsy Lilian Osterman

Makeup by Hiro Yonemoto for M.A.C

Special thanks to Courtney Johnson at John Varvatos; PR team at Patrik Ervell; Dylan Peckenpaugh at Dior Homme; Miki Higasa, Mari Fujiuchi & Graeme Kalb at Kaleidoscope Consulting; Justin Brown at Bottega Veneta; Ivan/Taylor Thomas at Parlor Showroom. Dex and his team at Dex Studio, NYC. To the models, agents and their respective agencies for all their support.

CLOTHING:

Bottega Veneta-www.bottegaveneta.com

Thom Browne-www.thombrowne.com

Patrik Ervell-www.patrikervell.com

John Varvatos-www.johnvarvatos.com

Odyn Vovk-www.odynvovk.com

Chrome Hearts-www.chromehearts.com

MY GOLDEN PIRATES-COSMO MACDONALD

2009-10-30T22:27:00.058-04:00

Earth wind, self portrait with paint

Our Second in a Series: Model Cosmo MacDonald
From a Distance—London to New York

MY GANG OF

GOLDEN PIRATES:

THE PHOTOGRAPHY OF

COSMO MACDONALD

Full Name: Cosmo MacDonald

Age: 21

Homebase: London, England

How did you first fall in love with photography?

I ran around like crazy exploring this life, this consciousness. My father, who paints, and my mother, who gardens, gave me a camera and I started taking photos of what was around me.

Your work is quite personal, usually about love, friends and the physical landscape surrounding you. Why are you drawn to this subject matter?

It's easy to forget just how special this second, minute and day is in our lives, just being here, a celebration of life. My friends are great, my gang of golden pirates. Getting high and going on wild adventures. A creative freedom oozes out of us when we are together.

How did you learn photography? Was it through observation when modeling? Which photographer's work inspires you?

My father is an artist. I remember watching him as a little kid photographing his big canvases outside. He had this sequence photograph of four snaps showing his friend: in a big black coat, wild orange hair, smashing an old Tuscan vase on the verandah and looking onto Tuscan fields. That really inspired me. There were always cameras around. I enjoyed taking photos. I guess I learned shooting through adventure and my father.

There is a great group of photographers I am inspired by: Bruce Weber, Dash Snow, Peter Lindbergh, Miroslav Tichy, Harmony Korine, Man Ray, Richard Avedon, Larry Clark and Basquiat. The surrealist movement inspires me a lot as well: Marcel Duchamp, Jackson Pollock, Salvador Dali, Aurel Bauh and Francis Bacon.

Which do you prefer-modeling or shooting?

I find inspirations in both equally.

Rainbow Ridge

What is your view of the modeling industry?

Fashion is a strange world. Pretentious grandeur is not really my thing. I don't really know that much, the mood can be pompous and patronizing. That should change. People shouldn't be working their asses off for nothing, for fashion's sake.

What has been the highlight of your modeling career thus far?

Shooting with Bruce Weber for Italian Vogue was special.

Is photography the direction you see yourself

heading after modeling?

Photography for sure. Visuals and music keep me alive.

We are seeing more and more models getting into photography. Is it easier to break into the industry, since, as a model, your foot is already in the door? Does having good looks make the process easier?

It's a world where aesthetics rule, a facade. This consumerism vacuum, this idea of flawless beauty is bombarding us everywhere we look.

There are a lot of talented people out there. I guess modeling does open up some doors to these different worlds. These days, anyone can be a photographer, it is much more accessible nowadays with digital photography. If anything, I hope it inspires new creative ideas and ways of collaboration.

How did you enter the world of modeling? If you hadn't, where would you be doing today? Would your life be very different?

I was working at shop in Hampstead on my lunch break, buying some pita and hummus in Tesco. This young lady was talking on the phone, then hung up and walked up to me. That was it. It came very randomly. Modeling never crossed my mind at all. For me, it had always been photography and going out. If I hadn't entered modeling, I would probably be in Argentina riding a Triumph motorbike to the shack on the hill.

Cosmo, Self Portrait

Traveling is always a big plus for any model. Which of the places you've visited were your favorites? Where would you like to go that you haven't been?

Naples was amazing. I would love to go to places like Madagascar, Africa, and Argentina.

What is your dream camera?

A fucked up dreamcatcher.

What is your craziest memory of shooting?

The English countryside, in some distant wood, completely wasted in the dawn fog. My friends ran down the green hill. I thought I was in Tibet, high up.

Your have been making short films for quite a while. How do you come up with the concepts?

It's the Psycho Honey Breeze—View one of the film below.

For additional films, please visit: www.cosmoalexander.blogspot.com

Define Psycho Honey Breeze.

Lust, harmony, freedom, youth, and hallucinogenics.

MY FAVORITE IMAGES:

BENONI DAN POOL—In Milan, after a striking hot day of castings,

at my friend Benoni's hotel pool with Dan swimming,

feet dangling in the water, smoking cigarettes, drinking cold beer.

FLETCHER SUNDAY SUBSCRIPT—On a placid sunday, my

housemate is tranquilized in Xanax state.

We just smoked a joint. There he sat perfectly still, healing in the sun.

I don't think he even knew I was there.

69.jpg—My friends were all hanging out at my flat in London,

drinking whiskey and taking uppers. Everyone else was in the living

room dancing, Tatiana and Naomi were in the bed with Errol.

His girlfriend and the other girls came in and asked, "So what's going on in here?" It was a real funny moment. The pineapples came out that night.

CATHARTIC STRANGE—This was my first shot I took on a medium

format Mamiya 665e. Magnolias, fresh wind, long, skinny legs

under all the magnolia tress.

DAMA 4—Amanda and Marlee, beautiful and amazing couple,
playing in a small park on the monkey trees.
Looking out to London town. Gripping it by its balls.
In warmth of love and youth.

CORRUPT FRANCO—A collage I did in Milan. It just accidentally
came together in spirit of Italian corrupted politics,
and how grandeur can bring loneliness.

SUNG TOGETHER—At a dark sea during blue dusk, sitting out
in the garden with my friend, Giorgia, having tea and cake, and
nostalgia ripped through us. It was in this five story Georgian house
in Fitzrovia. My mum's friends had kindly let her stay while she was in London.

MARYAM AFTER SCHOOL—We realized we were neighbours.
We had coffee. We decided to have her dressed up in my clothes and
went down to the blue wall where the wind was blowing.

AGENTS:

Christophe Sanchez-Vahle/Premier Model Management (UK); Agel Raya/NY Models (US)
MODEL: Cosmo MacDonald/Premier (UK) & New York (US)
IMAGES: Cosmo MacDonald-www.cosmoalexander.blogspot.com
CONCEPT/PRODUCER/CASTING: John Tan
COPY EDITOR: Brady Donnelly
Special thanks to Christophe Sanchez-Vahle at Premier (UK) for his long distance support and Agel Raya at New York Models (US) for Stateside support and to Cosmo MacDonald for providing and sharing his photography for this feature.

BE KIND REWIND: LOVE IS THE DEVIL

2009-10-30T13:03:00.009-04:00

As featured in WestEast Men Magazine-

A Spring/Summer 2009 Story

Vintage hooded sweatshirt by Helmut Lang;

vintage veil by Dior Homme; fishnets by Wolford

Left page: Vintage hooded hat by Raf Simons; tee shirt by Jockey;

trouser by Dior Homme; vintage wrap scarf, stylist's own

Right page: Jeans by Levi's

Dress by John Galliano; leather biker jacket by THECAST

Left page: Coat, sneakers by Converse by John Varvatos;

jeans by Cheap Monday

Right page: Tuxedo by Agnes B.; shirt by Jean Paul Gaultier;

scarf by Converse by John Varvatos

Left page: Wetsuit by Quiksilver; distressed tee, stylist's own; boots, model's own

Right page: Vintage hooded sweatshirt by Helmut Lang;

vintage veil by Dior Homme; fishnets by Wolford

AGENT: Gene Kogan/DNA

IMAGES: Bell Soto-www.bellsotostudio.com

FASHION EDITOR/CASTING: John Tan

MODEL: Marcel Castenmiller/DNA

Special thanks to Gene Kogan and everyone at DNA Men's Board for their support.

CLOTHING:

Quiksilver-www.quiksilver.com

Jean Paul Gaultier-www.jeanpaulgaultier.com

Converse by John Varvatos-www.converse.com

THECAST-www.thecast.com

Levi's-www.us.levi.com

Helmut Lang-www.helmutlang.com

Raf Simons-www.rafsimons.com

Dior Homme-www.diorhomme.com

John Galliano-www.johngalliano.com

Jockey-www.jockey.com

Wolford-www.wolford.com

Cheap Monday-www.cheapmonday.com

Agnes B.-www.agnesb.com

SELF-PORTRAITIST-MARKO BROZIC

2009-10-17T20:56:00.057-04:00

Our First in a Series: Model Marko Brozic

From a Distance—London to New York

SELF-PORTRAITIST:

MARKO BROZIC

Full Name: Marko Brozic

Age: 23

Homebase: London, England

From the photography series-With A Bit Of Green

What were you doing prior to modeling?

I was studying graphic design and working for a mobile company.

What are your future plans after modeling?

I would like to continue pursuing graphic design in the near future.

What are some graphic designers that inspire you?

At the moment, I really like the work of Kenya Hara because of his simple but very effective designs, and his use of clean lines and the minimal use of color in his designs. The combination of a neutral color palette and refined style lines is very elegant and appealing.

Tell us about your self-photography series. You have been shooting them for quite a number of years. Could you tell us how you decided to start the series and what the photos mean to you personally?

I started taking pictures of myself when I first got a mobile phone with a camera about four years ago. I took pictures to upload them on various internet communities that were increasing in popularity at that time. I wanted to have different, more original pictures, so I experimented with concepts, poses and compositions.

After I experimented with the mobile phone, I progressed to a basic family-range digital camera, I have not upgraded yet to a more professional camera as I still like the results from the one I still have.

I do self-portraits with the intention to develop aesthetic pictures of myself and to discover my body through the camera.

From the photography series-The Real Ketchup Suicide

Reviewing your portfolio, we noticed that photographers and fashion stylists love to feature you as a chameleon in editorials, from wearing the formal to the outlandish. If you were given free reign, describe your preferred character and locations for the assignment.

I think a shepherd would be interesting, placed in some old village in the amazing landscapes of Scotland. The dramatic scenery at various locations around Scotland could produce some excellent shots and portraits using the theme of the shepherd. I like the character of a shepherd because I like nature and rural ways of living, and also it would be a perfect escape away from the city.

You are originally from Slovenia. What's life like in Slovenia vs. living in London now?

Slovenia is a really small country with only a population of around two million people compared to the massive population of London. Life there is less stressful because life is slower. London is much more stressful but there are lots of opportunities and more things to see and do. I like life in Slovenia, but for me, I prefer life in London. In London, you get to meet people from various cultures and backgrounds unlike back home in Slovenia.

From the photography series-Hyper Relax

MY FAVORITE THINGS

1. Your memory of your favorite day.

I don't have one favorite day in particular, but I have a lot of nice memories that I keep in my mind.

2. Your favorite shoot to date and why was the shoot memorable for you.

It is difficult for me to choose because there are quite a few. I prefer shoot with a strong creative vision.

The most memorable was my first shoot for Dazed & Confused because I found the process of shooting fascinating, from setting up the lights, styling the clothes to hair/makeup and how long it requires to capture a shot perfectly.

3. Your favorite pastime.

I like jogging, watching movies—comedies or indie films—cook (Italian) and hanging out with my friends.

4. Your favorite dream destination

Iceland, because of the beautiful nature and unique people, and because I think it is quite a relaxing and diverse country.

5. Five of your personal favorite items you cannot leave home without and why.

NIKE SPORT BAG

The bag is spacious and waterproof. It protects all my items inside from the common rainy weather in London.

MOBILE

Must I explain? Can't anyone live without one?

IPOD

Contains all my favorite music: from pop, rock to mostly jazz. I listen to music while I am on the go, all the time.

NOTEBOOK

I love the art of keeping a journal. It is a great memory tool.

WALLET

I received the wallet as a gift. It is a bit worn but it has sentimental value for me.

From the photography series-jhvbl

AGENTS:

Christophe Sanchez-Vahle/Premier Model Management (UK)

Rodger Mikhaiel/Major (Paris)

MODEL: Marko Brozic/Premier (UK) and Major (Paris)

IMAGES: Self-Portraits by Marko Brozic

CONCEPT/PRODUCER/CASTING: John Tan

TEXT EDITOR: Jonathan Shia

Special thanks to Christophe Sanchez-Vahle at Premier (UK) and Rodger Mikhaiel at Major (Paris) for their long distance support and to Marko Brozic for providing and sharing his self-portrait photography for this feature.

OBSERVE LA LUNA

2009-10-13T08:55:00.048-04:00

AGENTS: Jason Rotan/Ford-Jesse Simon;

Andy Shane/Thomas Hassler/Next-Alisa Post;

Kevin Taylor/ReQuest-Oscar Garnica;

Michael Whittaker/DNA-Jaga Gajewska;

Alex Goldson/Fusion-Jody Gordon

IMAGES/VIDEO DIRECTOR: Bell Soto-www.bellsotostudio.com

PRODUCER/CASTING: John Tan

VIDEO EDITOR: Peter Hastorf

SOUNDTRACK: Jonathan Geer-www.jonathangeer.com

GROOMING/MAKEUP: Hiro Yonemoto for Lancome-www.hiroshiyonemoto.com

MODELS: Jason Rotan/FORD; Andy Shane/Next;

Thomas Hassler/Next; Kevin Taylor/ReQuest;

Alex Goldson/Fusion; Michael Whittaker/DNA

Special thanks to the models, agents, their respective agencies and most importantly, our creative team.

THE INSIDER-Model/Artist Joseph Culp

2009-10-07T10:00:00.014-04:00

What you didn't know...

The Artistic World of Joseph Culp

12 QUESTIONS WITH

JOSEPH CULP

Full Name: Joseph Culp

Age: 21

Homebase: NYC

How long have you been modeling: 2 1/2 years

1. When did your love for illustrating began?

From a young age really, my sister would read Dinotopia and I'd look at the pictures, but I really got into it around the end of freshman year in high school.

2. Who are some of your favorite artists that you are heavily influenced by?

Craig Mullins, John Singer Sargent, John Harris, Jaime Jones, Frank Frazetta, James Gurney, Richard Schmid, Frederick Church and Glenn Vilppu-the list goes on and on. Maybe in 70 years of constant work I can be half as good as any one of them.

3. Do you recall your very first drawing that you did that you love? What was the subject matter?

I drew a pretty awesome picture of a Saturn-V rocket lifting off when I was in second grade.

4. There's a dream-like, narrative quality to your work. The artworks are mainly consist of abstract, sci-fi fantasy and video games imagery. Are they purely from your imagination/dreams or are they based loosely on existing characters or fictional events?

Both, I just draw what I have fun drawing, sometimes its direct observation, sometimes its more narrative—just whatever is fun and evokes a feeling!

5. How often do you draw? What medium do you use to create your artwork? How big do your drawings tend to be?

I try to draw as often as possible, and want to draw more and more. Most of what I've done has been digital, painted in PS or in Painter, really getting into acrylics/charcoal lately though, real paint is the best way to learn (I have some gouache laying around here too, it needs a try). Most of the digital ones get painted big (3000 pixels usually) and scaled down, with acrylic I paint smaller cause I'm still getting the hang of it, and want to focus on the big value shapes rather than get swallowed up in detail noodling.

6. Most artistic works tends to be quite autobiographical or semi-biographical, could you share with us some of your thought process behind some of your favorite artworks? Why are they more special to you than others?

I think I try to live through all of them really, like pretend I'm there vicariously or something, but some I do better than others and those are the ones where I'm having fun. The most recent painting I did was of a big blue building set in some city, I kept thinking of Seoul or Tokyo, as those are some of my favorite places I've been. Painting is a visual language, and the best works communicate a desired thought or feeling from painter to viewer...I'm still learning this, will probably take 50 more years before I know what I'm saying!

7. It was fun spending an afternoon photographing you and seeing your artwork. We also had the pleasure of meeting your beautiful girlfriend, Hannah as well. She is featured in your drawings quite often. How does "falling in love" affected you and your artwork? Are we going to see a different side to your 'inner world of art'?

Falling in love is great for my artwork because the more love, the better the art. For it to really work you have to love painting and love the subject, so it works out that I'm in love! (especially if I paint a picture of Hannah) I think we see a different side of my 'inner world of art' everyday, since I really don't know what I'm doing!

8. If a book publisher will gave you an opportunity to create/illustrate an original concept for a illustrated fantasy book, could you give us a possible synopsis for it? What would the illustrated book be about? What would be the title for your illustrated fantasy book?

Since I suck at writing the book will be doomed! But I think I would do a book on the workings and ways of some massive futuristic city, cause that would be fun to explore. I like to walk around New York and try to amp up the visuals in my brain, make stuff more appealing based on sounds and designs...Usually I end up seeing things alot bigger and grander, lots of dust clouds and lava in the subway. As for the title? Can't come up with anything that doesn't sound too cliche!

9. You use a combination of mixed media and digital technology in your artwork. How would you like to envision the future for artists? Will artists still be creating paintings with canvases or do you see a revolution in the ways artists will interpret art?

Well, I think the camera changed things when it came along, and the way people express their artistic impulse is always changing for different reasons. I think if people keep having fun, learning, and creating we will all be just fine, no matter how we do it. I think people just don't want art to be lazy and easy to achieve, they want it to be a struggle. Usually the struggle is about not understanding though, instead of it just being hard to put paint on. Real paintings will always hold great value though, they are awesome.

10. We have to cover some questions regarding modeling but with a twist: How would you like to see changes be made to the wonderful world of modeling in terms of runway and presentation?

I think lots of changes could be made, but it's all about $$$. Wouldn't it be cool to have robot models? Or venues that are more interesting and interactive with the guests? I don't know how, mind you, but fashion, while based in the clothing, is about more than just clothing. I think clothing represents lifestyle (a second skin) and the venues could be amped up to reflect that...somehow.

11. You have been modeling for a number of seasons now. What do you enjoy the most about your profession now with all that you know?

The chance to adventure and explore, meeting interesting characters along the way. I don't remember many shoots or shows, but I remember vividly all the traveling and adventuring involved with going to new cities and countries.

12. What would be the highlight, as a model, to date? Which modeling project you have done would you say is as close to getting the same satisfaction from creating your artwork?

Probably this! That's cheating though since it involves the artwork...hmm, its hard to say since modeling isn't such a creative job (everyone else on set is being creative though). I enjoy many jobs, have a lot of fun, but it just can't compete with the joy I get from painting!

Bonus Question: What's your motto in life?

"Do your best!" also "Work hard. Play hard. Eat hard."

My best friend enlightened me with that second one.

JOSEPH CULP'S PERSONAL FAVORITES

1 I like how this one turned out because I like a peaceful night, this was when I first started thinking about the big shapes being so important as well, and it ended up coming together nicely.

2 This character is based on my favorite little legoman I played with as a kid (still am a kid I guess). Yes, it's the ice explorer dude with the transparent orange chainsaw, pretty self explanatory why that's awesome. Its my dream to get paid thinking about such things.

3 This is a scene where two armies are facing off, one side civilized, knightly guys and the other a horde of evil barbaric conquerors. I guess the bad guys aren't doing too well cause why would they be having peace talks?

4 This is the city-scene mentioned in a question earlier, I was thinking of some of those awesome Asian cities, and Blade Runner also (did I mention I love Syd Mead?). So this is what ended up on the canvas.

PIRATE JOE: JOSEPH CULP'S SELF PORTRAIT

HANNAH LEE: AN ARTIST'S PORTRAIT OF HIS MUSE

IMAGES: Sebastian Vikkelsoe-Pederson-www.sebastianvikkelsoe.com

CONCEPT/PRODUCER: John Tan

TEXT EDITOR: Jonathan Shia

Special thanks to Jody Gordon and Fusion for their help and support.

To Hannah Lee for being there for Joseph.

BE KIND REWIND: SKATER BOY

2009-10-05T23:34:00.019-04:00

As featured in WestEast Men Magazine-

A Spring/Summer 2009 Story

Left Page: Shirt by Gucci; tee shirt by American Apparel;

shorts with corset details by Patrik Rzepski

Right Page: Rubberized coat by Prada; shorts by Number (N)ine;

long sleeve print pullover by Marc by Marc Jacobs

Left Page: Leather vest by Thomas Engel Hart;

tee shirt, terry short and jam tight pant, all by Tim Hamilton;

Right Page: Extra long tee and tank tee, both by Prada;

basic pant by Thomas Engel Hart; hat by Marc by Marc Jacobs; 3-D glasses and chain, stylist’s own

Left Page: Linen woven jacket, fedora and sneakers, all by Yohji Yamamoto; shorts by Converse by John Varvatos; stripe saddle tee shirt by Tim Hamilton; belt and socks by American Apparel

Right Page: Artist’s wrap and terry short, both by Tim Hamilton;

single suspender tee by Patrik Rzepski

Left Page: Washed leather pleat blazer by Tim Hamilton;

shorts by Number (N)ine; socks by American Apparel;

sweat tee shirt by Converse by John Varvatos;

sneakers by Marc by Marc Jacobs

Right Page: Jacket by Prada; trouser by Yohji Yamamoto;

belt by Comme des Garcons; tank tee shirt by Patrik Rzepski;

hoodie by American Apparel

Except where noted,

all sneakers by Converse by John Varvatos

AGENT: Jesse Simon/Ford

IMAGES: Henry Hargreaves-www.henryhargreaves.com

FASHION EDITOR/CASTING: John Tan

GROOMING: Anna Bernabe for Lancome-www.annabernabe.com

MODEL: Douglas Neitzke/FORD

CLOTHING:

Thomas Engel Hart-www.thomasengelhart.com

Tim Hamilton-www.timhamilton.com

Converse by John Varvatos-www.converse.com

Comme des Garcons-Comme des Garçons, NY 212 604 9200

Marc by Marc Jacobs-www.marcjacobs.com

Yohji Yamamoto-www.yohjiyamamoto.co.jp

American Apparel-www.americanapparel.com

Prada-www.prada.com

Patrik Rzepski-www.patrikrzepski.com

Gucci-www.gucci.com

Number (N)ine-www.numberniners.com

THE INSIDER-Gio Metodiev

2009-09-20T22:15:00.060-04:00

What you didn't know...Gio Metodiev

Men's Public Relations Manager at Dolce & Gabbana

10 QUESTIONS WITH

GIO METODIEV

Full Name: Gio Metodiev

Age: 29

Homebase: New York, NY

1. In the fashion industry, I often find that the role of a Public Relations Manager is the most mysterious in the fashion equation. These jobs are not always advertised or promoted...It is almost like a secret fraternity.

Fashion is a small industry at the end of the day and most great jobs are filled before they even get to be posted on the market. Having the right contacts and a great reputation definitely helps to get these opportunities. I have been fortunate enough to have some of the most respected and successful people in the media world be my references whenever I applied for a position.

2. Could you provide me with some insight into how one get a job like yours? Who was your mentor, what does your job require you to do? Is it as glamourous as it appears?

Because as far as I know, work in fashion industry is all smoke and mirrors...

I take every project with the good and the bad. My experiences have definetely exposed me to some incredible events and people but after all, work is work and you have to give 110% of yourself, stay calm, and be focused. An old boss of mine always used to say that what we do is not a brain surgery, so when keeping things simple and on target, you’re bound to succeed.

3. Sometimes I am told that "samples are completely out" (depending on your relationship with the PR manager) or "we have nothing left in the showroom." Is this really a fact ? How many samples does a PR person really have per given season for trafficking in and out for shoots/events?

I’ve always believed that honesty is a key ingredient regardless of the job you do. I often see the relationship between stylists and publicists as an equal partnership. Editors won’t be able to do their job without getting the right information or products and public relations executives won’t be able to get their brand’s name out there without the press coverage. It is extremely important to earn the editor’s trust and to be always open with your approach. As banal as it might sound, no good deed goes unnoticed. People always remember if you were professional and polite to them.

4. Which part of your job do you love?

Which part you could do without?

I love the time around our fashion shows. There is this great electricity in the air, the buzz about the celebrities attending the show, the creative process and the writing of press releases, the new collection. It is truly an adrenaline rush. I could definitely do without the writing of reports and charts. I’m much more of a visual person. Let’s just say that Excel and I are not the best of friends.

5. Do you wear Dolce & Gabbana all the time? One would assume you would since you have to practice what you preach. So, honestly, can we find other designer brands in your closet at home? Which brands do you wear on your off days? How would you describe your personal style?

There is always a Dolce & Gabbana piece that is part of my look. It could be a great pair of sneakers, a fitted Henley shirt, or a pair of jeans. I frankly believe that if someone works in fashion, they should celebrate it with all its variety and should not wear only one certain brand. I love wearing clothes that are masculine, sexy and sharp-looking. I try to stay away from crazy patterns or large logos. Being elegant and understated is the ultimate luxury.

6. Your feelings towards the state of fashion...Are we thriving or is it changing for better or worse?

Fashion is so vibrant and always on the go. It is not an accident that all of us live a year ahead. It might sound crazy to some that we look at Spring/Summer 2010 collections in June’09 but this is the reality of our business. The internet has definitely reshaped the industry’s landscape. Just take a look at the recent New York Fashion Week; bloggers were taking front row seats next to editor-in-chiefs. Things are changing fast and change is crucial to fashion. It keeps it alive!

8. What do you do in your spare time to get away from talking fashion 24/7?

I’m absolutely obsessed with fashion, but film will always remain my first love. I could spend days watching obscure Japanese flicks or old French movies. The ability to recreate an entire world with people and emotions out of scratch never ceases to amaze me.

9. If you had to choose another area within the fashion industry to be your occupation, what area would you like to spend a day working in?

I’d probably choose to be a photographer. Defining beauty and capturing it on camera takes such a unique vision and exceptional talent. Also knowing that what you do is here to stay forever as a sign of the times makes the work of the photographer that much more fundamental and phenomenal. I’ll feel so blessed to possess this skill.

10. What makes Gio happy?

I can be very self-indulgent if I choose to. A great restaurant, a great pair of shoes, a beautiful vista can all make me happy. I must admit that traveling is one of the most exciting things to me. Nothing compares to getting off a plane to a totally new place, experiencing the noise, smell and taste of an unknown culture.

11. Bonus Question: What's your motto in life?

I win against all odds.

GIO METODIEV's Top 5 Music Videos

Gio picks his top 5 music videos that are

under the radar but fashionably cool:

SHAKESPEARS SISTER/"STAY"

“Stay” is one of the most stylish and beautiful videos ever. It tells an entire story with such a sparse choice of elements. The smokey eye-shadows, the room somewhere above the earth and the gigantic respirator machine are like something taken out of a futuristic fashion shoot. Siobhan Fahey, who plays Satan, wears a killer black-sequined pant suit, long before Gucci and Balmain introduced their crystal creations. Her performance is what makes the video so outstanding. She is sexy, mischievous and cynical all at the same time. It’s a total pop perfection from beginning to end.

BLUR/"THE UNIVERSAL"
An incredible video that actually makes the color white expressive. Somewhat inspired by "A Clockwork Orange", the band looks ultra-slick and futuristic in their matching white suits. The line, “How long have you been a red man?” is just as quirky and full of subliminal message as the rest of the video. Wait till the end of the music video for some Catholic shocker.

GOLDFRAFF/"NUMBER 1"
Goldfrapp are very interested in using animal fetishes and seem to always sneak in a beastly reference. This video is absolute perfection, combining all the great elements from their previous works. You have a "Pooch Clinique" filled with all kinds of dogs, prancing around in stilettos and silver silk robes. You have Alison Goldfrapp looking ravishing as a sexy patient, clad in an ultra-mini fuchsia jumpsuit, waving her paws in the air. Pair all this with a hypnotizing beat and you have a brilliant video.

ROISIN MURPHY/"MOVIE STAR"-UNCENSORED VERSION
Roisin is such a style icon. She is so bold and totally unafraid to experiment with her looks. This video is a fashion extravaganza to the max. Full of references to the late and absolutely amazing Leigh Bowery, “Movie Star” is a total camp poking fun at its own self. The most priceless moment arrives when "poor" Roisin gets raped by a giant red lobster. The cheap zombie freak-out at the end is absolutely absurd, which makes the whole thing as twice the fun.

THE CARDIGANS/"MY FAVOURITE GAME"
-ORIGINAL VERSION
Shot on location in the Mojave desert, “My Favorite Game” chronicles the band’s lead singer Nina Persson desperately trying to fulfill her death wish. While getting in all kinds of trouble, Nina never ceases to look tough, sexy and determined. Pay attention to the black stain on the red leather seat. It leaked from Nina’s drawn massive dragon tattoo. Hey, sometimes looking bad-ass can get a little messy.

IMAGES: Jeffrey Cohen-www.jeffreycohenphotography.com
PRODUCER: John Tan
ASSISTANT TO PHOTOGRAPHER: Gillian Staples
Note: Gio is wearing all Dolce & Gabbana in this feature.