INDULGE After Hours Magazine - #5

INDULGE 5

After Hours

COVER FEATURE & INTERVIEW

gracie Lou

photography by justin jackrabbit

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@REVENAN TMELODY 2

LOUD&CLEAR MAGAZINE // 3

INDULGE INDULGE AFTER HOURS MAGAZINE IS A DIGITAL MAGAZINE. PRINT COPIES ARE PRINTED ON DEMAND AND CAN BE ORDERED AT REQUEST. DIGITAL LINKS WILL BE PROVIDED TO ALL CONTRIBUTORS. WE DO NOT PROVIDE FREE PRINT COPIES OF THE ISSUE.

After Hours

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FOUNDER & PUBLISHER DAVE @_designprint @indulge_afterhours DESIGN @_designprint PHOTOGRAPHERS (REGULARS) JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc JANETTE OROZCO @djanetteo DOUG MUNGAVIN @dougmungavinphotography ANDREW ORTEGA @aperture.ortega ALDRIAN ALFONSO @ar1photography JONATHAN WOODEN @jzw_photo VIGNETTES STUART POWELL ADVERTISING & PROMOTION dave.designprint@gmail.com COPYRIGHTS INDULGE After Hours Magazine is owned by DAVID R. NAVARRO. The magazine, its staff and writers, has made sure that content is accurate on the date of publication.

The views expressed in the articles reflect the author(s)’ opinions and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or editor. The published material, adverts, editorials and all other content is published in good faith.

All rights reserved. Nothing can be partially or in whole be reprinted or reproduced without express written permission.

MODEL | RANDI JENKINS @RANDIRIGHTMEOW PHOTOGRAPHER | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @BLACKJACKRABBIT_STUDIO.LLC

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INDULGE | COVER MODEL After HoursTM

gracie Lou @greysealou

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JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @BLACKJACKRABBIT_STUDIO.LLC

ABOUT US

INDULGE After Hours™ is an entertainment magazine that focuses on artists that think out-of-the-box, by expanding their minds and others. This digital publication will focus on creative interviews with individuals that are changing today’s landscape as artists and entrepreneurs, as well as feature a diverse collection of models, photographers, and writers.

COntEntS

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTOGRAPHER | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc_

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INDULGE | CREDITS + COPYRIGHT

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INDULGE | COVER MODEL

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INDULGE | CONTENTS

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INDULGE | SPOTLIGHT

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INTERVIEW w/ GRACIE LOU

RANDI JENKINS GRACIE LOU GRACIE LOU

ALEJANDRO

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JUSTIN JACKRABBIT

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INDULGE | SELFIE LIFE SERIES

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INDULGE | LA MOSCA EN LA LECHE

22-25 26-29 30-33 34-39 40-41 42-47 48-51 52-55

VIGNETTE BY STUART POWELL

FEATURED | MODELS

KRISTYN CORDOVA RANDI JENKINS SYDNEY BENNE NAYELY SOTO KASSAUNDRA MARIE MARY RAE + CHELLEY ROSE JACQUELINE CRESPIN ALEJANDRO RIGALES 5

INDULGE AFTER HOURS

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SPOTLIGHT MODEL

ALEJANDRO RIGALES

PHOTO BY JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc 6

IZCALLI F E AT U R I N G B A I L E Y E L O R A

ST R E A M I N G O N A L L P L AT FO R M S

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MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

anime/cosplay model + DANCER

Thank you so much for taking time our of your busy schedule. Let’s get right to it….

INDULGE: How did your passion for anime and cosplay influence your decision to pursue a career in modeling, and how do you integrate these elements into your photoshoots?

GRACIE LOU: If I am being quite honest, my primary career is being a behavior analyst. Modeling is something I do on the side as a creative outlet. I started out modeling by participating in dance shoots because I have a history as a ballet and contemporary dancer. I was introduced to other artists at an event called “Albuquerque Street Meet.” I noticed how much time they invested in creating their own costumes and how well they portrayed their character, and they inspired me to expand my portfolio to cosplay.

INDULGE: In a field often focused on conventional beauty standards, how do you find empowerment in expressing yourself through anime and cosplay aesthetics?

GRACIE LOU: That is what I enjoy about cosplay. It deviates from beauty standards where my focus can be on creating varying renditions of my favorite characters.

Mortal Kombat is particularly my favorite because nostalgia helps drive my passion. Instead of just focusing on fashion, there are more elements involved such as researching weapons, the characters’ powers, or character development. I try to channel their backstories. However, this is not possible without photographers and digital artists who can help build these visions. I never realized how much hard work goes into cosplay: creating your own costumes, trying to do the character justice, plus the time that goes into special effects makeup.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

gracie Lou

What makes cosplay special is that it helps me connect with gamers and other cosplay artists who stay in contact and discuss new games or movies that are out. Instead of conversations merely being, “I like your shoes.” Conversations expand to, “Have you played Mortal Kombat I?” Instead of being isolated to fashion where you sometimes 9

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MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

INDULGE: How do you approach the creative process when combining fashion modeling with the intricate and imaginative world of anime characters?

GRACIE LOU: Fashion modeling gives me the experience to understand lighting, communicating with the photographer, following their redirection, and grasping the importance of angles, plus being on the same page pertaining to what type of wardrobe will be worn. These components of fashion modeling are integrated with cosplay ideas. Additionally, the photographer needs the same awareness of the character. Sometimes composites are necessary, which require 2-3 hours of additional editing if the goal is to be less cinematic. In a way, it is like fashion, but there are more layers to it.

INDULGE: New Mexico might not be commonly associated with anime and cosplay scenes. How do you bring these subcultures to life in a region with a different cultural backdrop?

GRACIE LOU: Research is necessary. I follow the New Mexico Model Network. You are correct in stating that cosplay photographers are rare. Chris Gama @medianextstudios, Justin Jackrabbit @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc, Joe Calerdon @joecalderonphotogrpahy, Aldrian Alfonso @ar1photography, and Alejandro Marentes @ marentesalejandro are the few photographers I know who capture the cosplay scene and they are professionals I would recommend to other artists seeking this type of modeling. They invest their time in understanding cosplay posing, character backstories, and researching weapons if needed.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

feel like a mannequin on display, you feel more human because people can have a window to see what your interests are outside of external beauty.

INDULGE: Can you share your favorite anime or cosplay character that you’ve portrayed in a photoshoot and why it holds a special place in your creative journey?

GRACIE LOU: My favorite cosplay character was Mystique (i.e., Raven Darkholme) from X-Men. This particular character is a shapeshifter, and it is fitting because that aligns with what cosplayers do. What I love about this character is that she is both a villain and anti-hero, so there are so many dynamics to play around with.

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MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTO | ALDRIAN ALFONSO @ar1photogrpahy BODY PAINTER | KT CRAVEN @sweetleaf.13.kt

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For this particular photoshoot, I collaborated with Aldrian Alfonso (photographer and digital artist) and KT Craven (SweetLeaf Creationz @sweetleaf.13.kt). KT is a talented body painter and spent 6 hours applying blue paint to my entire body. This photoshoot challenged me on many levels because trust is involved when it comes to body paint. You are more exposed. I knew this would be a necessity because tight blue clothing didn’t look as realistic as body paint. The scales on Mystique’s body isn’t an extension such as clothing, that is her bare skin, so I wanted to stay as true to that as possible. KT deserves so much recognition for essentially designing my character. Aldrian went above and beyond to add sci-fi backgrounds. I have built a strong rapport with both of these artists and would happily collaborate with them again.

INDULGE: Can you share a memorable photoshoot where you successfully blended the world of anime and cosplay with traditional modeling, creating a unique and captivating visual narrative?

GRACIE LOU: One of my most memorable photoshoots that blended these concepts was when I cosplayed Scorpion, a Mortal Kombat character. I worked with Chris Gama (photographer and digital artist) and Dan Burke @sevastion84 (flame creation assistant). The idea was to make this photoshoot more cinematic, and because the character manipulates fire, I literally held fire for this photoshoot.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @graciegrowls89 PHOTO | CHRIS GAMA @medianextstudios FLAME ASSISTANT | DAN BURKE @sevastion84

INDULGE: What role do you believe your platform plays in promoting diversity and inclusivity within the entertainment and modeling industries?

GRACIE LOU: I try to promote diversity by balancing fashion, dance, and cosplay modeling. This allows photographers to expand their portfolios, and it also gives me experience in varying genres rather than limiting myself to one style of modeling. For the longest time I only did dance shoots, and cosplay gave me a break. It also helped prevent me from remaining in one box.

INDULGE: Can you discuss any challenges you’ve faced as a female artist and model and how you’ve overcome them in your career?

GRACIE LOU: The biggest challenge I have encountered is being pressured to do more sexually explicit content, or asked to do boudoir as a means to help offer diversity to my portfolio. However, being “sexy” isn’t me. I think you can have a diverse portfolio without compromising comfortability. The best way to overcome this is to continue working with professionals who respect your boundaries. A challenge I face is saying “no” to new photographers because I know they are trying to obtain practice, but it is okay to limit who you work with when artistic styles contrast.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @greysealou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

I practiced at home and started out by dousing cotton balls in hand sanitizer and adding a flame. I was able to hold the fireballs; however, this resulted in me bouncing the cotton balls around in my hands to avoid getting burnt. With traditional modeling, you have to look graceful, and this method was contrary to that. Dan Burke had a different method that allowed me to stay still so that the photographer could capture the flame. This was one of the most challenging photoshoots and risky ones I have done.

INDULGE: How do you use your platform to advocate for positive change, especially concerning women’s representation in the arts and media?

GRACIE LOU: The way I try to promote positive change is to make myself available to answering questions to new models in the industry and giving references to photographers who seem like they would be a good fit for what they are looking for, and also being an ear when they 13

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MODEL | GRACIE LOU @graciegrowls89 PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

INDULGE: What advice would you give to aspiring models interested in exploring the fusion of anime and cosplay in their work, especially within a modeling industry that might not always embrace unconventional themes?

GRACIE LOU: There will always be an audience that will connect with your vision. You can’t please every person, instead aim for personal growth rather than trying to procure attention from people who probably don’t even know the depth of you as a person. The artists and audience who are supporting your endeavors are the ones who should be kept close. They are the ones supporting you to thrive. Doing something without proper support and meaning can become lonely. Try not to do this to yourself.

INDULGE: We hear you are an incredible dancer. What dance styles are you most proficient in, and do you have a preferred style?

GRACIE LOU: I am proficient in ballet, contemporary, and jazz dance. I prefer contemporary dance because it is more forgiving compared to ballet. Ballet requires a lot of discipline because there is an emphasis on perfecting technique from head to toe. I appreciate ballet, but contemporary dance allows me to be more free.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @graciegrowls89 PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

encounter internal conflicts that come with the territory such as being body conscious, and battling insecure thoughts because so much emphasis is placed on external beauty. I don’t want them to lose sight of all their qualities and talents as artists.

INDULGE: How has dancing helped you in your modeling? What role does your modeling technique play in your dance routines, and how do you express your unique style?

GRACIE LOU: Something that most people don’t see behind the scenes is that some modeling poses that look simple can actually be challenging to do. Sometimes you have to arch your back, point your toes, hold the pose, and oftentimes these are in locations or in weather conditions that aren’t comfortable. Poses don’t always feel natural on your body and I think dancers have an advantage due to their practice in obtaining flexibility and strength to hold simple and advanced poses. Dance and 15

modeling can actually work together depending on how you view it. Dance supports models in striking several fluid poses. Some viewers can perceive dance as transitioning through poses rapidly.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @graciegrowls89 PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

INDULGE: Okay, so this next question is a little off subject, but I feel that music can often play a big role in our lives. What 5 albums or artists have made you who you are today?

GRACIE LOU: My top five musicians and other artists who have inspired some of my artwork include Amy Lee (from Evanescence), Lindsey Stirling (dancing violinist), Paula Abdul (because of her history of dance choreography), Britney Spears, and Polina Semionova (professional ballerina).

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INDULGE: Again, thank you for sitting down with us. Is there anything else you’d like to share with us?

GRACIE LOU: I think this interview was very thorough and I don’t have anything further to add. Thank you kindly for this opportunity.

INDULGE: How can fans-to-be follow your modeling career?

GRACIE LOU: @greysealou on Instagram.

MODEL | GRACIE LOU @graciegrowls89 PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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La mosca en la leche

by Stuart Powell

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hen I was young, there was an awkwardness whenever I first fell into a relationship. Is it real? Will it last? Did we give away everything to soon?

I walk into the bar where she works, and she hugs me in front of her coworkers. Now everyone knows. I liked it better when we were a secret. At some point, I know I will bore her. I’m not that exciting. I don’t even know what I want out of life yet.

She calls me and asks me what I’m doing. She wants to see me. I smile, comb my hair, and put on cologne - the one she likes. I grab my car keys and now I’m driving. Her apartment is miles away, it gives me time to think about her.

I’m at her door and knock once. She lets me in with a mischievous smile. Touching her is exciting. We don’t speak. I have her in my arms. Her lips are soft. Her dark hair, dark skin, and dark eyes cover me.

Her mattress is on the floor, her clothes are hung on plastic hangers. She’s beautiful. She could be with anyone. Why is she with me? I love her laughter, I love her spontaneity.

Later, in bed, she traces her fingers across my chest and says, “La mosca en la leche.” She asks me if I know what that means. I tell her no. “Muchacha morena, muchacho blanco.” Her definition isn’t heavy. It’s about us in her apartment on a Saturday afternoon.

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Model: Isabel g @only.isabel Photographer: Justin Jackrabbit @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | KRISTYN CORDOVA @heart_brielle PHOTO | UNYK LYFE @unyk_lyfe

MODEL | KRISTYN CORDOVA @heart_brielle PHOTO | UNYK LYFE @unyk_lyfe

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MODEL | KRISTYN CORDOVA @heart_brielle PHOTO | UNYK LYFE @unyk_lyfe

MODEL | KRISTYN CORDOVA @heart_brielle PHOTO | UNYK LYFE @unyk_lyfe

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MODEL | RANDI JENKINS @randirightmeow PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | RANDI JENKINS @randirightmeow PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | RANDI JENKINS @randirightmeow PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | RANDI JENKINS @randirightmeow PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | SYDNEY BENNE @sydney__benne PHOTO | SYDNEY BENNE PHOTOS @sydney__benne

MODEL | SYDNEY BENNE @sydney__benne PHOTO | SYDNEY BENNE PHOTOS @sydney__benne

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MODEL | SYDNEY BENNE @sydney__benne PHOTO | SYDNEY BENNE PHOTOS @sydney__benne

MODEL | SYDNEY BENNE @sydney__benne PHOTO | SYDNEY BENNE PHOTOS @sydney__benne

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MODEL | NAYELY SOTO @nayelylubbsyou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | NAYELY SOTO @nayelylubbsyou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | NAYELY SOTO @nayelylubbsyou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | NAYELY SOTO @nayelylubbsyou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | NAYELY SOTO @nayelylubbsyou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | NAYELY SOTO @nayelylubbsyou PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | KASSAUNDRA MARIE @dose_of_kass PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | KASSAUNDRA MARIE @dose_of_kass PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | CHELLEY ROSE @chelley_rose PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | MARY RAE @monty_mary PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | CHELLEY ROSE @chelley_rose PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | CHELLEY ROSE @chelley_rose + MODEL | MARY RAE @monty_mary PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | CHELLEY ROSE @chelley_rose + MODEL | MARY RAE @monty_mary PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | MARY RAE @monty_mary PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | JACQUELIN CRESPIN PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | JACQUELIN CRESPIN PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | JACQUELIN CRESPIN PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | JACQUELIN CRESPIN PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | ALEJANDRO RIGALES @alejando.rigales PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | ALEJANDRO RIGALES @alejando.rigales PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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MODEL | ALEJANDRO RIGALES @alejando.rigales PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

MODEL | ALEJANDRO RIGALES @alejando.rigales PHOTO | JUSTIN JACKRABBIT @blackjackrabbit_studio.llc

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BOOK YOUR PHOTOSHOOT TODAY! DOUG MUNGAVIN PHOTOGRAPHY NEW MEXICO | WEST TEXAS @dougmungavinphotography Model: Diana Estrada @di_an_a.e