Issue 2 - The Creatives Issue

ISSUE 2

featuring

JOSHUA KANE

£7.00

The Creatives Issue EDITORIAL

EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor-in-Chief Wayne Noir wayne@rionmagazine.com

The Creatives Issue was always going to be about the creatives themselves, allowing them a platform to speak to us and our readers about their arts. This is not only at the core of RION’s values but also our contributors.

While unconventional maybe, this was our intention.

Sub-editor Paul Eccles CONTRIBUTORS Paul Eccles Fossy Meade Sarah Mulindwa Ross Pullard Adam Weston DISTRIBUTION MMS Ltd

Joshua Kane, known for his spectacular collections and runway shows at the London Palladium opens his doors to fashion and to the public.

“It begins with a story” and what a story this issue holds.

London’s dandiest tailor speaks to us and we find out what his life was like growing up to becoming one of the most talked about and celebrated designers of our time.

Everything you see holds some element of surprise, from stunning editorials across the globe to insightful interviews. The Creatives Issue is exactly that. It’s all about the creatives.

RION Magazine. The Creatives fashion magazine.

GRAPHIC DESIGN

—Wayne Noir

Studio 18 ADVERTISING

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BRASS DANIEL LISMORE ALUMNI REBEKAH ROY NO JULIET JOSHUA KANE Cover story ANOMALY THE LION DANNY BALDWIN DESERT THE SCHEME A GENDERLESS LOVE CIMONE MELANCHOLY FROM PRAGUE WITH LOVE MATT SKINGS CANCER LONELY ROSE WHAT’S IN YOUR FRAGRANCE DRAWER? THE DANCER WITH BLUE EYES

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Download a digital copy of The Creatives Issue from rionmagazine.com

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Brass Wardrobe Stylist — EMILIE BRUYERE Photographer — THE O.X. PROJECT Model — SELENA SOFIA @FACTOR CHOSEN CHI|LA Hair & Makeup — AMANDA SUMMERS

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Yellow gown — ASOS Coat — KRYSTELL BARRAZA Sash — KRYSTELL BARRAZA Sneakers — GUCCI Gown — JANSEN

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Pants — ALEXANDER WANG Shoes — ZARA Bra — KRYSTELL BARRAZA Sleeves — ASOS Rain coat — ALEX CARTER

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Pants — ALEXANDER WANG Shoes — ZARA Bra — KRYSTELL BARRAZA Sleeves — ASOS Rain coat — ALEX CARTER

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Photographer — COLIN DOUGLAS GRAY Book publisher — SKIRA RIZZOLI IN ASSOCIATION WITH SAVANNAH COLLEGE OF ART & DESIGN

by Wayne Noir Daniel Lismore is a name (well, much more than a name!), known around the world.

He is the former creative director for the fashion brand, Sorapol and recently launched his book ‘Be yourself, everyone else is already taken’, that exhibits some of his collections as mannequins made in his image. Daniel epitomizes the word creative, himself a true talent and work of art. We ask Daniel about what his life was like growing up, to appearing in the Absolute Fabulous movie and his sparkling career!

YOU ARE A VERY CREATIVE PERSON. CAN YOU DESCRIBE WHAT YOU DO? “Over the years of working in the art and fashion world, I have learned not to put a definition on what I do. I find if I do that, it inhibits my creativity and allows people to put me in a box which I do not want to happen. I constantly re-invent myself. It enables me to be involved in projects I never thought imaginable 15 years ago, when I first moved to London to be a model. I live my life as art as well as for art — I create sculpture and work hard to make my visions and dreams a reality. I take photos, I design, style celebrities and throw events. I guess the main thing is, that I see myself as a social alchemist, which is really what I love to do — bringing a diverse range of people together from all walks of life for creative and other purposes. I am lucky to have the opportunity to consult my idols and work with the people I feel are masters of what they do.”

WHAT WAS YOUR LIFE LIKE GROWING UP? “I grew up in a small village in Warwickshire, my parents were antique dealers and so I was constantly surrounded by beautiful objects and a sense of mystique. I think my taste and imagination was influenced by my parents’ interest in culture, not just of British culture but worldwide.

They always encouraged me to explore and experiment.

I have been bullied all my life for one reason or another.

This was particularly bad when I was at school, so I spent a lot of time alone in my bedroom and was obsessed with pop culture. I watched a great deal of Sci-fi, mainly Star Trek. Most of my time was spent trying to be creative, sculpting with clay and painting. I had an amazing dressing up box. I believe that ‘time’ has been a big influence on my work.”

YOUR BOOK “BE YOURSELF, EVERYONE ELSE IS ALREADY TAKEN” IS FANTASTIC. IS THIS YOUR MOTTO IN LIFE? “‘Be yourself, everyone else is already taken’, is one of the many mottos and mantras that I use in life. Another one I use a lot is that you can be anything you like in life, as long as you work hard enough for it.”

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HOW DID THIS BOOK COME ABOUT? “I was sitting at home in Farringdon, alone and fed up with the direction in which my life was going. It was a bad time for me. I decided to turn off the internet and phone for three days and put all of my ideas down on paper. It was a revelation and the two things I developed clear plans for, miraculously came about.”

“I had a vast storage unit of clothes that I have collected over the years and I needed to move it. It was a dream of mine to have an exhibition, featuring my clothes. I wrote an exhibition plan, inspired by the image of the ranks of the Terracotta Warriors; turning 1000’s of objects into an army of splendor and antiquity.”

“I didn’t really think it would be possible. I attended a Westwood party three nights later and met Raphael Gomes, who worked for Vivienne at the time. He said he was going to work in SCAD Fash Museum in Atlanta, GA. I told him about my idea for an exhibition and he said, “Ok, I’ll get back to you”. I didn’t think for a minute that anything would come of it. Three days later he called to say they were interested and a week later they gave it the go ahead. Raphael came to my storage lock up and we chose 4000 pieces of my eclectic wardrobe to be sent to Atlanta.”

“The museum gave me complete freedom to invent the sculptures how I liked. Three weeks later, the museum had 32, 6ft4, life size versions of me, with my face cast by their sculpture department.”

“The exhibition launched and it got a huge amount of press. SCAD asked me if I wanted to make a book about the exhibition with Rizzoli and of course, I said yes! We shot the book over 12 days. Hilary Alexander and Paula Wallace wrote the main text of the book. It was launched at Miami Art, Basel.”

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YOU HAVE BEEN TRAVELING THE WORLD RECENTLY, INVOLVED IN A VARIETY OF PROJECTS; WHAT ARE YOU WORKING ON NOW? “At the moment, I am working on one of the greatest projects in the arts, but I can’t tell you what it is ‘til next year. I am also launching a tour of my exhibition and working with Gamma Gallery in Iceland to create a whole new body of art work. I am also working on plans to bring it to the UK.” WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BEST EXPERIENCE TO DATE? FEATURING IN THE ‘ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS’ MOVIE, MUST HAVE BEEN RIGHT UP THERE? “I recently worked with David LaChapelle. He has been my hero since the age of 17. That was magical and a dream come true. Filming the ‘Ab Fab’ Movie was like living in the real Ab’ Fab’ world. I took my mother to the premiere, it was very surreal.”

WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE IN THE LIFE OF DANIEL LISMORE? “For the last 15 years I have not had a typical day! Every day is different. There are things I regularly like to do when I have free time, usually in Soho. Apart from that, no day is ever the same. I often go out with no plans and find myself on stage with Macy Gray or having deep conversations in a hotel room with Mary J Blige or in the back of a car with Naomi Campbell!

Sometimes I might end up sitting on the steps of an office building talking to my homeless friends or protesting against fracking with Vivienne Westwood. Other times I spend the day at home, working and developing future projects and see nobody for a week. I try not to plan. I feel the variety and randomness of my life really feeds my creativity.”

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WHAT WAS IT LIKE HOLDING AN EXHIBITION OF YOURSELF AND YOUR CREATIONS? “It was very surreal the first time, quite odd actually. I was asked to show my self-portraits as art in two exhibitions at the Tate Modern and later at the Tate Britain. It was even more surreal walking around a room full of 3-D versions of myself. I had very mixed feelings — on one level it was exciting and so fulfilling and yet, it also brought back vivid memories of the struggles I have been through.”

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“Each piece of my clothing collection has a strong emotion attached to it. I found myself walking around, thinking of times when I could not afford to eat or times when extremely kind friends handed me over their hat collections. I thought of times spent clowning round in funny wigs and times I’ve been shouted at or abused. It really brought back the whole journey, the good moments and the clubs, the strange and wonderful friends I had met when wearing the outfits, but also the more difficult times. It really confirmed for me who I am and what I do

and that how I lived my life is an art form. I struggled with the concept for a long time. I would often be told it was or wasn’t art. I never planned it, but seeing it together it sunk in — it was an amazing experience. I’m so grateful to SCAD for giving me that opportunity.”

WHAT CAN WE EXPECT TO SEE FROM YOU IN THE NEXT YEAR?

“Next year will be full of travelling and art projects, collaborations with some corporate companies, wellknown brands and other artists. I also plan on trying to remove myself from social media. I spend too much time on it, instead of on my art as I should. As much as it had helped me rocket onto the art and fashion scenes, I see it as a huge distraction to achieving my ultimate goals.”

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Alumni

Photographer — BALINT NEMES Model — ELA @ELA.MODELA

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by Sarah Mulindwa Rebekah Roy is one of London’s top fashion stylists and creative consultants. Her unique style, due largely to her ability to communicate ideas and collaborate with different creatives, has taken her around the world and inspired her work. Rebekah believes in supporting young creative artists and is often involved in Graduate Fashion Week. An ‘influencer’ for her Blog, Rebekah is also known for her roles as Creative Director for Candid Magazine and Fashion Director for Disorder Magazine.

WHEN DID YOU DECIDE TO PURSUE A CAREER ASA FASHION STYLIST? “I was always interested in storytelling. From a very young age I was fascinated by the fact that you could tell a story through clothing, that you could influence the way someone reacted to and treated you by what you were wearing. That always sticks out in my mind as well as the way clothes make you feel. I always loved clothes. To be honest with you, I don’t think I ever really thought about what career I was pursuing. I was just doing things that I loved to do and slowly over time it began to take shape. The basic instinct was there I think, but it happened so gradually.”

WHAT ARE YOUR THREE MUST HAVES IN YOUR STYLING KIT? “I have boxes and boxes of kit (too much probably) but if I could only have three things, I’d go with: • Safety pins • Scissors • Double sided tape!

Not glamourous I know, but essential.”

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WHAT WOULD BE YOUR DREAM STYLING JOB? “There are so many things that I’d love to do. The first thing that comes to mind would be to work with Dolce & Gabbana – but really, what would I change, what could I add? I’d love a job without budget constraints, where you could call in any designers, go anywhere in the world and use it as your set. Oh, and of course, have an amazing team! Just to have true freedom to create what you want — hmm, maybe that’s just want you have to do anyway… and just make it happen!”

HOW DO YOU THINK SOCIAL MEDIA HAS CHANGED (IF AT ALL) PEOPLES’ PERCEPTIONS OF WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A STYLIST? “I think people see a stylist’s role to be quite glamourous and in truth, some of it is. I get to travel the world, work with beautiful clothes and inspirational artists. I get to do what I love to do. The greatest misunderstanding is that

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people think my job is about me. Absolutely not. My job, my focus, is always about someone else, be it the client I’m styling or the brief that I’m following. I can dress someone else and not realise that most of my job is about logistics, organization and other people’s vision. No one thinks about all the work and effort that goes into something, but really that’s the reality. You just see the beauty, the finished vision brought to life.”

TELL US ABOUT YOUR WORST STYLING JOB/EXPERIENCE? “In all truth I haven’t had any bad experiences yet or at least nothing that couldn’t be solved! I once had a client who wanted all white clothes for a commercial shoot and then on the day, decided that they wanted lots of colour instead. So we had to go out and grab some colourful clothes; all a bit last minute and frantic. The client still went for white in the end. So it can be challenging, but never a bad experience. I’ve seen people through temper tantrums

and a roller coaster of emotions, but really, in the grand scheme of things, that’s nothing and goes with the territory on occasions. Most things can be sorted, fixed, replaced…”

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY WAS YOUR GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT TO DATE? “Hmm. I haven’t done anything yet that I’d consider to be my greatest achievement, but I’ve done lots of things that I’m incredibly proud of. Perhaps if I had achieved the pinnacle of my career, I might not be so motivated to keep going. I’m not sure.”

I’VE BEEN A SECRET FAN OF YOURS FOR YEARS, FOLLOWING SOME OF YOUR WORK AT DISORDER AND I’VE ALWAYS ADMIRED HOW YOU DON’T HOLD BACK WITH FASHION! WHO/WHAT INSPIRES YOU THE MOST?

“Thanks! I’m inspired and influenced by the people I meet and the places I travel to. I think we live in a world of great joy and sorrow, and we can feel both at the same time.

There’s lots of, what’s the word... duality happening and that dynamic is interesting. I’ve been very fortunate and travelled to places like Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Nigeria and you can see incredible things and meet amazing people, but really you don’t have to travel so far. So much happens in London. I like seeing everyday life, that’s what inspires me most.”

IF YOU ONLY HAD ONE CELEBRITY TO STYLE FOREVER, WHO WOULD THAT BE? “I’ve worked with Kate Nash for a number of years already and I can’t imagine not working with her. When you work with an artist for several years you see them grow and Kate is constantly taking on new challenges which influence her style. So the job is always changing, inspiring and great fun.”

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WITH THE INFLUX OF BLOGGERS AND ‘INFLUENCERS’ HAVING SUCH AN IMPACT ON THE FASHION INDUSTRY, HOW HAS THIS IMPACTED ON YOUR ROLE COMPARED TO SAY, 10 YEARS AGO? “I don’t think the influx of bloggers and influencers has really changed my role as a fashion stylist. I quite like bloggers and influencers and how they have, as I see it, given fashion more of a universal voice. I want people to love fashion! I embraced the web quite early on and I’ve had my own blog since 2006. I was a bit late getting on to Instagram, but I use it all the time for research. I’ve met designers from all over the world and use ideas from their collections for shoots. Really, it’s quite

an extraordinary connection. I recently did a shoot of plus size bloggers all of whom I met through Instagram. It might not have happened if it wasn’t for Instagram. I’ve become good friends with some influencers just from liking their Instagram and then when they’ve visited London we’ve met up for tea.

The outcome of my job as a stylist is the same but how I research is completely different.”

IF YOU COULD GIVE THREE TIPS TO AN ASPIRING FASHION STYLIST, WHAT WOULD THEY BE? “I think you need to be persistent but also realistic about expectations. Be honest, hardworking and kind. Above all, enjoy it!”

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Assistant — WILLIAM NASCIMENTO Beauty — LARESSA LINS Art direction and styling — JHOEY Fashion producer — PERSONAL COLLECTION & STUDIO PRINCE DAY Model — JHOEY CHINALDER (SAAD MGT)

No Juliet

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Cover story

by Wayne Noir

JOSHUA KANE He oozes style and elegance in abundance, creating designs which reach new heights of outstanding theatrical imagination, where fashion meets history and catapults romantic eras, such as the 1920’s, into the 21st century. Indeed, his life is a rich tapestry in itself. From being a semi-professional footballer to becoming one of the most unique and talked about designers of our generation. Oxford born designer Joshua Kane is a true English gentleman.

For me he is the ‘People’s’ designer. Known for his signature moustache, striking eye-glasses adding an air of mystery and above all, creative genius. He’s become known as the designer who threw open the doors of fashion, quite literally, to the public, when he staged a spectacular show for his last collection “Journey”, in the elegant setting of the London Palladium. The extravaganza sold out to 2,500 guests including many young people dreaming of a life in fashion.

With an enviable collection of prestigious awards firmly under his belt already, including Best Independent Designer in 2016 and then this year, Best Fashion Event at the Fashionworked awards during London Fashion Week Men’s and most recently the IARA Best Fashion Designer for a second year running, Joshua Kane’s whirlwind success is growing at a pace.

Directing three short films, ‘JK Fantasy’ starring Asa Butterfield, Joshua gives us a tantalizingly brief, but totally magical glimpse into what we can expect from his next collection ‘Fantasy’. Staging this at the London Palladium, there can be little doubt that his ‘signature’, the element of surprise, will take us on the continuing journey into a unique mind.

During a recent visit to his store in Great Portland Street, Joshua Kane was kind enough to take time out of his inordinately busy schedule, to speak with me.

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Photography — WAYNE NOIR

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Photography — JOSHUA KANE

WHAT WAS YOUR LIFE LIKE GROWING UP AS A CHILD? “Interesting question. I would say diverse above anything else. Best compared to a split personality in a sense! Part of me was always and still is arty, part of me was sporty, part of me loved the country side and part of me loved the city life. So I would say very diverse. I was always a bit of a Chameleon as a child, jumping from one thing to the next.”

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BEING A SEMI PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL PLAYER AND NOW A WORLD WIDE SUPER BESPOKE TAILOR, AT WHICH POINT DID YOU DECIDE TO LEAVE FOOTBALL AND THROW YOUR ENERGY INTO THE FASHION INDUSTRY?

YOU STUDIED AT OXFORD AND SHOWCASED AT GRADUATE FASHION WEEK. YOU STILL GIVE SOME INSPIRING TALKS AT THIS EVENT. WHO, AT THE MOMENT, REALLY STANDS OUT FOR YOU AND WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THEM?

“Well, that would have been around the time I was applying to go to art foundation. I was playing a lot of football while living in Oxford. My father would drive me to London 3 times a week as well, so that I could play and train. I had a decision to make to either go to art school and follow my creative path or follow my childhood dream of becoming a professional football player. I seriously do not think there would have been time for me to physically do both. Well, not as successfully as I would have liked anyway. You have to make a choice when it comes down to it. In retrospect, I am sure I wouldn’t have been happy just focusing on one activity, whereas being creative and the satisfaction that brings is what I really, really needed more than anything.”

“That’s a tough question. There are so many talented young people out there who stand out. Kingston is where I trained. I still go to their graduate fashion shows each year and as you mentioned, I did just recently give a talk at Graduate Fashion Week. I think it’s crucial to remember where you studied, where you came from and who trained you. Keep positive links to your roots and always help out when possible. I always like the house style at Kingston and, in fact, I am delighted that our latest recruit to the full time design team was from there! She graduated this year. I couldn’t possibly ‘preach’ without practicing what I believe in.”

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YOUR FLAGSHIP STORE, “JOSHUA KANE BESPOKE” AT GREAT PORTLAND STREET HAS HAD AN INJECTION OF PINK FROM YOUR LATEST COLLECTION, ‘CRUISE.’ HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE TRANSITION BETWEEN YOUR COLLECTIONS AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO USE PINK IN THIS COLLECTION? “The collection always had a backbone of black and white, with highlights of gold and the ‘Cruise’ collection is really an evolution of my previous ‘Journey’ collection showcased at the London palladium.

It’s a teaser for what’s coming in my new collection.

There’s always a narrative which connects my collections rather than having them singular and connected. So the pink is a high-light tone that connects us to the next collection.”

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YOUR COLLECTION ‘THE JOURNEY’ ATTRACTED A FULL HOUSE AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM AND OPENED YOUR SHOW TO THE PUBLIC. THIS MUST HAVE BEEN STRESSFUL. THE DANCERS WERE FANTASTIC! HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA TO HOST YOUR COLLECTION AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM AND STAGE IT AS YOU DID? “Well, the idea of the London Palladium show was that it should be a show for everyone. If you like, a show for the people, for fans, customers, a show for the press, for celebrities, kind of an ‘all in one’ if you like, not just for the press or celebrities. I wanted everyone to be able to enjoy the experience of the show. I think as the business I designed and created grows, it’s extremely important to stay ‘in touch’ with everyone who has helped get us to where we are and within a relatively short period of time! Three years to be exact. I like treating people on a level playing field. If we couldn’t invite the people who helped support us, I’d be very disappointed.”

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WHAT WAS YOUR LIFE LIKE DESIGNING FOR PAUL SMITH, JAEGER AND BURBERRY AND HOW DOES THIS DIFFER FROM BEING AN INDEPENDENT DESIGNER? “I would say they are completely different ‘lifestyles’.

Having full creative control is incredibly satisfying and means I can do what I really want to do. It means you can allow your passions to be explored to the max.”

YOU HAVE BEEN QUOTED AS THE NEXT ALEXANDER MCQUEEN. HOW DOES THIS MAKE YOU FEEL? “Interesting one. It’s a difficult one to react to. Of course, it’s a massive compliment in many ways but I wouldn’t ever like to personally compare myself to anyone else because I don’t believe that what I’m doing has been done before. I am, of course, flattered by the comparison, because he was an innovator and in many way I’m an innovator in my approach, so that’s the biggest compliment anyone could pay me. I see it as comparing innovation but just different innovations.”

HOW DO YOU START YOUR DESIGN PROCESS? “It begins with a story and the story blossoms and evolves and becomes something else. The theme, however, connects and influences the final design.”

YOU ALREADY HAD A STRING OF IMPRESSIVE CLIENTS AND INTERESTS THAT YOU BROUGHT WITHYOU WHEN YOU LAUNCHED JOSHUA KANE BESPOKE. YOU DESIGN MEN’S AND WOMEN’S WEAR. WOULD YOU BREAK INTO CHILDREN’S WEAR? “Yeah definitely. I definitely would. I mean, it’s a natural evolution as the business grows, as demands grow and it opens doors to create new design paths.”

CAN WE EXPECT A JK FRAGRANCE ANYTIME SOON? “Watch this space on that one. Nothing anytime soon but certainly within the next few years.”

YOUR COLLECTION ‘THE JOURNEY’ ATTRACTED A FULL HOUSE AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM AND OPENED YOUR SHOW TO THE PUBLIC. THIS MUST HAVE BEEN STRESSFUL. THE DANCERS WERE FANTASTIC! HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA TO HOST YOUR COLLECTION AT THE LONDON PALLADIUM AND STAGE IT AS YOU DID? “Well, the idea of the London Palladium show was that it should be a show for everyone. If you like, a show for the people, for fans, customers, a show for the press, for celebrities, kind of an ‘all in one’ if you like, not just for the press or celebrities. I wanted everyone to be able to enjoy the experience of the show. I think as the business I designed and created grows, it’s extremely important to stay ‘in touch’ with everyone who has helped get us to where we are and within a relatively short period of time! Three years to be exact. I like treating people on a level playing field. If we couldn’t invite the people who helped support us, I’d be very disappointed.”

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WHO DID YOU TAILOR YOUR FIRST SUIT FOR? “My first suit I ever tailored was for a close friend of mine and who I went to school with. It was for a film awards that he was up for and he was the Director. That was the first suit I ever sold.”

WE ARE VERY MUCH LOOKING FORWARD TO YOUR NEXT COLLECTION. ANY SNEAK PREVIEWS FOR US?

“The element of surprise is something that I have always loved to use within my shows. However, the latest short film I directed featuring Asa Butterfield, features glimpses of fabrics that are set to appear in the Fantasy collection” Many thanks indeed to Joshua Kane for his time and insight and we wish him even more success for the coming year!

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Anomaly Photographer — THE O.X. PROJECT Model — BRYN @FORD MODELS Retoucher — LIDIA STOLYAROVA Fashion Designer — RONG ZHANG Hair & Makeup — KERRE BERRY

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Camisole — RONG ZHANG Skirt — RONG ZHANG

Fur coat — RONG ZHANG Trousers — RONG ZHANG

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Camisole — RONG ZHANG Skirt — RONG ZHANG

Fur coat — RONG ZHANG Trousers — RONG ZHANG

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Top — RONG ZHANG Trousers — RONG ZHANG

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The Lion Photography by KAMODJ

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Cap — ADIDAS Jacket — ADIDAS Boots — ADIDAS Shorts — NIKE

Jacket — VISTULA Trousers — TOMMYHILLFIGER

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54 Trousers — H&M

Jacket — VISTULA

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Jacket — VISTULA

Hoodie — NONAME

DA N N Y BALDWIN

by Wayne Noir Danny is no stranger when it comes to photography. Best known for his style of shape and texture. Driven by a lifelong creative thirst, the London based photographer has worked with some huge names in the industry, and we can see why; his striking style and technical skills, capture emotion and freeze the moment with grace and an enviable artistic eye.

The ‘tattooed’ photographer regularly shoots editorials, portraits and runs his own studio.

In his interview, Danny tells us how he started in photography, what meanings are behind his tattoos, about his inspiration in Mexico to moving to London. It is not difficult to see that Danny is a hugely creative artist, destined for great things.

GIVE US A FLAVOUR OF A TYPICAL DAY FOR DANNY BALDWIN?

Photography — DANNY BALDWIN Model — HANNAH PIXIE SNOW Jewellery — REGAL ROSE MUA — CHLOE GRAY Studio — STUDIO 213

“Many people believe the life of a photographer to be very glamorous when, in fact, it is all very hard work. I normally go through emails in the mornings and plan the day ahead. I also run my own studio, so have clients to welcome and set up for. During the times when I’m not shooting, I edit work and manage three social media sites through various platforms.

A lot of my time is spent organizing,logistics, researching and planning for shoots. It may surprise many people, but the shoots only really take a small chunk of my time during the week as they are the easy and fun part of the job! They don’t feel like days at work at all. Whilst managing my own bookings and studio, I also try to spend time swimming to keep me sane (it’s like meditation for me). I try my best to keep evenings free, to spend time with friends.”

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Photography — DANNY BALDWIN Model — HANNAH PIXIE SNOW Jewellery — REGAL ROSE MUA — CHLOE GRAY Studio — STUDIO 213

Photography — DANNY BALDWIN Model — JORDAN EBBITT @ FIRST LONDON Hair — ELVIRA WARN MUA — GAVIN PICKLE Studio — STUDIO 213

YOU CLEARLY LIKE TATTOOS. DOES THIS INFLUENCE YOUR STYLE WHEN PHOTOGRAPHING TATTOOED MODELS? “I love the medium of tattooing, so when I work with a tattooed model, obviously there is a shared link but I wouldn’t say it influenced my style of photography — maybe some of my personal work, but 70% of the models I shoot for clients are not tattooed, because of client briefs or because they are editorial or fashion shoots where garments cover the tattoos. So I guess it’s just because a lot of the models I know and have shot on a personal basis have tattoos. It is something I find visually stimulating.”

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WHAT MADE YOU GET INTO PHOTOGRAPHY? DID YOU STUDY? TELL US YOUR STORY? “I left my 9-5 job and went travelling around Mexico.

During that time, I knew that I would have to return home but to what? I could see my whole life laid out for me and I didn’t want to go back to that life. I felt there was more for me to do, see and create. My ex-partner was returning to art school and I took a look at the brochure. While I was away, inspired by my surroundings, I made a pact with myself that I was going to try something new. It jumped off the page at me. Photography! I applied and got offered an interview when I returned to the UK. I went to my interview and as I had no experience, no camera etc. They basically just told me how difficult it would be to make a career in photography so, to be honest, I left feeling disheartened. I then got a letter to say the course was full.”

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Photography — DANNY BALDWIN Model — STEPHEN JAMES Hair — KEVIN LUCHMAN MUA — LAUREN DEXTER Studio — STUDIO 213

Photography — DANNY BALDWIN Model —BILLY HUXLEY @ MODELS 1, TOBY LEONARD @ MODELS 1 AND RIKI HALL @ NEVS MODELS. Hair — KEVIN LUCHMAN MUA — LAUREN DEXTER Studio — STUDIO 213

“That weekend I felt completely lost and just thought “What am I going to do with my life now?” On the Monday morning, the first day the course, I got a call from the college and they said somebody had not turned up or changed courses, so they had one space left. Thankfully, they thought of me, so I immediately accepted the position and started the next day! I’m a big believer in fate and destiny, so there you go.”

After 2 years studying film, digital and general photography, I applied to the London College of Fashion and it was then I moved to London to start the three year degree in fashion photography. Since completing that I have never looked back. I have been freelancing and running my studio ever since.”

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR STYLE? IS THERE A PARTICULAR SHOOTING / LIGHTING METHOD THAT YOU USE? “My set up depends entirely on the shoot location or studio. How many models, the concept and theme we are working with. My work is influenced by art fashion and Counter Couture and I like to think my style mixes diverse colours, tones and textures with a devotion to the power of beauty, shape and emotion.”

WHAT IS IT ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY THAT KEEPS YOU MOTIVATED? “I think one of the things that still fascinates me the most about photography is that ‘still’ image has never been replaced. For example, in music we go from tape to USB’s, to CD’s etc. but people always demand still imagery.

Although we have moving image and video, there is something that people just love about a still photograph.

The freezing of a moment in time as opposed to reliving it on video. Being able to make and freeze the moments is something I get a buzz out of. Photography has many different facets to it. There is a great deal of team work involved as well. I love being surrounded by creative individuals and seeing them in their element and producing great work.”

WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR THE REST OF THE YEAR? WOULD YOU PRODUCE A BOOK? “I plan to continue shooting for the rest of the year and running my studio. However, I’m currently working on a project which is consuming a lot of my time. I’m feeling really inspired, so I’m going with my gut. I hope all will be revealed on that next year. I would love to produce a book of my work or a project yes. So hopefully in the near future, that’s something I can tick off my list!”

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IS THERE ANY PERSONAL MEANING BEHIND YOUR TATTOOS? “For me, my tattoos, although clearly visible, are very personal. They look quite macabre, but in fact all of them have very positive messages and affirmations to me. Each one represents something to do with something I have been through or overcome on my journey through life so far. So in a way, to me, they represent kind of artistic scars, whilst acknowledging lovers, friends and family (don’t worry I don’t have any ex’s names ha-ha!)”

WHY PHOTOGRAPHY? IF YOU DIDN’T, WHAT PROFESSION WOULD YOU CHOSE? “I photograph because it was the first job where I felt everything naturally clicked together for me. I was working with likeminded people, who wanted to create, felt lucky enough to be doing so as a job and appreciating that but also being appreciated for doing it. It was a total win win scenario for me. There is another profession that I have been interested in for a long time and as I mentioned earlier, I’m working and spending a lot of time on a project so who knows, maybe I’m adding another string to my bow as we speak.”

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Desert Artistic director — YOHAN MASLIAH Photographer — RICHARD BERNARDIN Model — FLAVIA LUCINI, THE LIONS NEW YORK AGENCY Hair and makeup — GENEVIEVE LENNECILL, FOLIO MONTREAL AGENCY Stylist — CARY TAUBEN, FOLIO MONTREAL AGENCY Assistant photographer — GABRIEL PAQUET Location — ALBERT FREY HOUSE II, PALM SPRINGS CA

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Photography — CONDRY CALVIN MLILO

by Adam Weston Boyband, The Scheme are a hot, new London based Pop band.

Made up of members Kris James, Kyle Carpenter and Aleksey Lopez.

Taking inspiration for their name from their constant need to always have the ‘next big plan’. Their distinct voices, arrangements and talent for writing great songs is no doubt what earned them a staggering number of YouTube hits — over 400,000!

It’s clear to see why their fans “The Schemers”, love them. Interview by Adam Weston, we get to know the boys a little better and see what ‘Schemes’ they are planning next!

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SO, FIRST OF ALL, TELL US THREE INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT YOURSELVES? KRIS: ”I’m always up for an adventure!”

KYLE: “I’m not a big fan of desserts!”

ALEKSEY: “I can swim 100m in under a minute!”

HOW’D DID YOU COME TOGETHER? WHERE DID YOU ALL MEET? “We got together quite organically, myself (Kyle) and Kris met through writing in a studio in London and really hit it off. Shortly after, we decided to put a project together. We spotted Aleksey one night on the London music scene and it all came together from there really.”

YOUR SONG “CANT STOP”, I LOVE IT BY THE WAY VERY UPBEAT! WHAT WAS THE BEST ‘BITS’OF PRODUCING THIS TRACK?

WHAT IS GENERAL LIFE LIKE WORKING TOGETHER AS A BAND? DO YOU ALL LIVE TOGETHER? “We don’t live together, but we do spend the majority of our time together, so it feels like we do! Obviously, we have little bickers and rows sometimes but it’s because we are like three brothers basically. No different to anyone else I suppose.”

WHICH ONE OF YOU HAS THE WORST HABITS? “Kris! He loves to eat tins of fish in the car and it sinks!”

WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS DANCE, POPPY OR SOUL INDIE? DO YOU FALL INTO A SPECIFIC GENRE? “We describe ourselves as guitar lead pop.”

“The best part of putting this track together was making the video. It was such a fun day, everyone just had the best vibes and there was a really great energy on set.”

DO YOU WRITE YOUR OWN SONGS, AND HOW DOES THIS DIFFER BEING A GROUP? “We write all our own songs collectively; collaboratively.

It’s good to work as a team, as a number of heads are always better than one and you have each other to bounce ideas off. When you are on your own, you have no one there to tell you if something’s rubbish or not, so we are happy to work together. It really helps us to achieve the best end product.”

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WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR WORST EXPERIENCE AND BEST EXPERIENCE TO DATE? “Our worst experience has to be agreeing to do gigs that have been sold to you as the next big thing, then when you turn up it’s nothing like what had been described to you when you signed up.

The best experience is being on tour, getting to play our music live and interact with the fans. It is just the best buzz you can get.”

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A Genderless Love Creative director — RAUL MANRIQUEZ Makeup artist — EMILIA KUCZMA-PORĘBSKA Photographer — ELUVIER ACOSTA GUEVARA Model — ASHLEY RESCH Wardrobe stylist — IVAN JIMÉNEZ Jacket & jewelry — H&M

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Jewelry — H&M

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Jewelry — H&M

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CIMONE

by Ross Pullard

June saw the 6th Annual Fashion Worked Awards, a project of mine that’s grown and grown to become an event that involves some amazing names, judging sixteen different categories & the nominated labels from across the industry. There is, however, one award that I’ve retained complete control over and that’s the Best Independent Designer Award that this year was sponsored by RION Magazine.

The nominees included Vin & Omi, Apu Jan, Sadie Clayton, Ong-Oaj Pairam, Anissa Aida, Joshua Kane & My Galavant and the winner was Cimone.

The shortlist just keeps gets stronger and stronger and choosing my winner is one of the hardest tasks I undertake each year. We’re blessed to have such a huge range of independent designers either based or showing their collections in London and it truly shows this city is an outstanding global fashion capital. While New York may be the commercial fashion capital, Milan the outrageous capital and Paris the capital of chic, London is the place where diversity of concept has no rival. Here in the UK we aren’t known for one style or one philosophy, we are truly different in that what we have is a desire to see what people can do, how their visions are brought from mind and sketchbook to our runways and presentation spaces.

However, a lot of people think that the industry is only about the cabal of venerated couture houses that evoke fashion in the pages of glossy magazines but it really isn’t. Fashion is about so much more, the real industry lives and dies by the labels that should get much more exposure outside of the industry bubble. These labels are forward thinking, creative and the life blood of the fashion industry.

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But this, as I mentioned earlier, makes selecting a winner incredibly difficult. For each award I always have a long list of about 40-50 names, that gets shaved down to the shortlist of eight. But how did I pick the winner for Best Independent Designer? The turning point for me, during selection this time, was down to a simple fact.

Carli Pearson is a hugely talented designer and the two collections that fell in the awards year showed that.

The September collection was light, fun & inventive, it floated, bounced, glided and filled the watching audience with joy.

The February collection was by contrast dark, theatrical, imposing but retained that trademark sense of fun, an almost Alice in Wonderland, sinister flow ran through it.

While it touched on darker thoughts, it retained senses of playfulness and storytelling. As with our darkest fairy tales, there is always happiness and a touch of humour.

I think it’s fair to say I adored both but it was something else that struck me about the Cimone collections. Not only did my readers responses show people really loved them but there was another element. When non-fashion friends asked me what was Fashion Week like, or which looks did I enjoy the most there was one set of looks more than ever I turned to as a representation, in an age where any photos and video fight to stay in the media, I returned time and again to the Cimone collections.

Carli Pearson is perfection as a designer, a label led by its designer. There is no distance between her vision and the production. Her thoughts of how things should be created, her power of selection, her ability to create magic is truly something special, something to be treasured. Even in a fashion scene so full of bright burning stars, she’ll be a supernova.

HTTP://STORE.CIMONE.CO.UK @CIMONEUK

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Melancholy

Makeup Artist — NORAH SALAZAR Photographer — KRISTA LAJARA Model — BARBARA ROSKOSA @STARSYSTEM MANAGEMENT Wardrobe Stylist — YENIFER UBIERA Hair Stylist — MICHAEL BRAUN Wardrobe Assistant — KEITH BENNETTE Blue sheer stoned top — CHIKIMIKI Pink sheer top — NATHALIA JMAG Jewels — MONICA VARELA

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Blue sheer stoned top — CHIKIMIKI Blue culottes — NATHALIA JMAG Black & blue flats — I’ALAVE Jewels — MONICA VARELA

Blue blazer — DUR DOUX Pink sweater — HELFRICH Pink silk pants — NATHALIA JMAG Colorful pin — NATASHA FISHCHENKO Shoes — I’ALAVE Jewels — MONICA VALERA

Black Fur coat — SAKU NEW YORK Purple slip dress — SAKU NEW YORK Jewels — MONICA VARELA

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Pink leather top & bottom — MOSCHINO Silver flats — I’ALAVE

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Fashion Designer — TOMASHEVSKY&STORGE Photographers — SERGEY PO & VIKA MAZUR Makeup Artist — KATERINE SMERTINA Fashion Designer — NASTYA TOMASHEVSKY Models — NASTYA YARISH & KSENYA POPOVA @MIXMODELS Wardrobe — TOMASHEVSKY&STORGE

From Prague with Love

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YOU’RE ALSO A VISUAL MERCHANDISER, HOW DID THIS COME ABOUT?

by Wayne Noir Illustrator and visual merchandiser Matt Skings, lends a unique style in design and to all he creates. From having his own comic book to commissions of celebrities and private drawings. Matt is a creative that’s here to stay. A visual release of art graces the pages which follow...

YOU PRODUCED YOUR OWN COMIC. DO YOU PLAN ON DOING ANOTHER ONE ANYTIME SOON?

“It started whilst I was working as a Sales Assistant in Gap, back when I lived in Brighton. I took an interest in dressing the mannequins. I think I helped out a few times and then after a year of enthusiastic trials and errors, I was promoted to Visual Assistant. It kinda’ just went on from there really. I’ve worked as a VM for American Apparel, Hobbs, Eileen Fisher and now Barbour. I love it.”

“I did! It was fun, but I bit off more than I could chew. I was the writer, the penciller, the panelist, the colourist, the inker, the scanner, printer, I funded everything myself and that was just issue 1. If I were to ever release a comic I’d need a team. I quickly realised that with CHOKE. However, never say never...”

YOU DRAW A LOT OF MEN AND PORTRAITS. IS THIS YOUR NICHE OR WOULD YOU LIKE TO EXPLORE SOMETHING DIFFERENT?

IF YOU COULDN’T RELEASE OR EXPRESS YOURSELF IN YOUR ART, HOW DO YOU THINK YOU WOULD DO THIS?

“I took a break from VM in 2013 to illustrate professionally.

I covered kid’s books, fashion illustration, comic book art and storyboards. So I’ve covered the something different, and it’s exhausting. It wasn’t just for me, I needed more solidarity. So now it’s a hobby and I just enjoy creating characters and turning people into illustration; so if I’m going to draw it’s going to be something I enjoy.”

“I guess I’m quite lucky that my VM job is creative, so I get an expression out of that. If I didn’t have that it would probably be writing. Writing my comic book was a great creative expression. I was travelling at the time I wrote it and I couldn’t draw as I was constantly on the move or drunk, so I just filled that void with writing instead.”

What body part do you find hardest to draw?

I always struggle with hands. Unless it’s a hand on a hip.

I just find them difficult. Most of my guys will have their hands behind their head!

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YOUR “GUYS WITH IPHONES” IS VERY SEXUAL; DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION IN EXPRESSIONS OF SEXUALITY? “The Guys with iPhones series is literally guys I follow/ follow me whose selfies I think look artistic or sexual, and I’ve drawn them. It’s normally when they’re in a suggestive position, nothing overly sleazy or erotic, just that kind of suggestive, cool, stylish, a selfie that I think works when illustrated.”

DO YOU CLASS YOURSELF AS AN ILLUSTRATOR OR AN ARTIST AND WHAT WOULD YOU DEFINE THE DIFFERENCE?

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“I’d describe myself as an illustrator; I don’t take it too seriously. I think artist is a great title for someone who believes in a meaning when they create their work. I’m mainly just drawing butts.”

TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF. HOW DID YOU GET INTO ILLUSTRATION? “My Nan sat me down one day and drew the cover of The Lion King VHS tape. I remember being amazed at how easily she created this version of Rafiki holding up Simba, the shading and everything. So I started to draw it too. I must’ve been 6 or 7? And I just more or less drew every single day, non-stop, ‘til now.”

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YOU WATCH A LOT OF MOVIES AND WE SEE YOU’RE A HUGE FAN OF LEONARDO DICAPRIO; WITH THAT IN MIND, WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE?

ALSO, JUDGING BY YOUR INSTAGRAM, YOU EAT A LOT OF PIZZA. IS THIS YOUR FAVOURITE MEAL AND WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE TOPPING/THE WORSE TOPPING EVER?

“That’s such a hard question! I want to say Titanic, because it’s just such an incredible movie and has a big establishment in my group of friends. And it has Leonardo. But, I think deep down, the film I will always be able to watch again and again is Jurassic Park. It’s the perfect movie. Titanic can go on a bit, the first half is a little slow. Its novelty has slightly worn off for me. Jurassic Park is just timeless and could go head to head with a summer blockbuster of today and probably win.”

Ha-ha. I honestly love pizza. It’s the greatest creation on Earth (besides modern day medicine). My favourite pizza topping is pepperoni (preferably from Pizza Hut).

The worst is ham and pineapple. Honestly, disgusting!

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Model — VAN ANH NHU Creative Director — NGUYEN NGUYEN Assistants — HAN VY & MATT NG Photographer — DUC DANG Sketches — MINH TRANG NGUYEN HOANG Stylist — PHUONG AN

Cancer

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Makeup artist — EVA MC ADOO Model — ROBIN HÖHN Photographer — NEO SANCHEZ Outfit and accessoires — VINTAGE

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Outfit — VINTAGE

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Accessories — VINTAGE

Accessories & pants — VINTAGE

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Outfit & accessories — VINTAGE

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WHAT’S IN YOUR FRAGRANCE DRAW?

by Fossy Meade

It’s always difficult to pick out fragrances since there are so many out there. Every season there’s a new fragrance and, of course, a new price tag. When I choose a fragrance, I am very particular in what I wear and know what works with my skin. However, I’m never afraid to be bold and try something completely different. I think that’s most important when it comes to a scent, not to be too afraid to stand out from the crowd.”

“I’ve been looking at some fragrances and what’s hot this season, as well as considering some new emerging fragrances out there. It is important to explore. I’m more drawn to the fragrances in between. Now what I mean by that is the fragrances that aren’t overly masculine or overly feminine; something sitting in between, what some people would call ‘unisex’. I’m more of the belief that fragrances shouldn’t be that defined and we are heading down that direction, which makes me happy as a consumer.

JIMMY CHOO: ICE Floral with an over scent of Lemon and Lime, powerful but subtle. Its carnal wake of musk, moss and ambroxan, gives the fragrance a natural elegance punctuated by a hypnotic signature. Top Notes: Mandarin, Bergamot, Cedrat Essence Heart Notes: Vetiver Essence, Patchouli Essence, Cedarwood, Apple Base Notes: Musk, Moss, Ambroxan.

ABERCROMBIE AND FITCH First instant more traditional and classic tones, perfect for your inner hipster. The opening notes bring together exotic kiwano, melon and electric gin and tonic before the heart of Szechuan pepper, violet leaves and citrus touches. In the base, a distinct blend of raw amber and sueded musk reveal the true character of this unique aroma. First instinct, it is a member of the fougere aromatic amber fragrance family.

Jimmy Choo: L’eau The scent is floral with a hint of fruit and musk. It opens with notes of bergamot and hibiscus that lead to the heart of nectarine and peony, based on cedar wood and musk.

COUCH FOR HER The composition is floral with vibrant top notes of raspberry leaf, pink pepper and pear, which represent the energy of New York. The heart includes an authentic accord of Turkish rose, laid on the base of suede musk and sandalwood, which symbolize the leather accessories which made the brand famous.

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ABERCROMBIE & FITCH: FIRST INSTINCT FOR WOMEN In a bright expression of lively sensations first instinct for her opens with notes of sparkling grapefruit zest, warm passion fruit and elegant magnolia. The floral heart is inviting and sensual, bringing together notes of orange blossom and butterfly orchid before the attractive blend of Tonka bean and amber set in the final trail.

MY FRAGRANCES CARTIER: L’ENVOL DE CARTIER An eau de parfum of dualities, L’Envol is both strong and mellow with sweet resins set against airy musk.

DIOR: SAUVAGE The fragrance is announced as radically fresh, raw and noble at the same time. The composition is prevalent with carefully selected natural ingredients. Fresh top notes of Calabria bergamot encounter ambroxan, obtained from precious ambergris and its woody trail.

ZADIG & VOLTAIRE: FOR HIM The fragrance has a grapefruit aroma, black pepper, incense, milky sandalwood and vanilla. A balance of something really clean and something darker, more mysterious.

LESSER KNOWN FRAGRANCES ALAIA: BEAUTY The scent is based on the contrast of cool tones, such as red pepper and oriental, hot flavours, like musk. It opens with airy notes and pink pepper. Middle notes include freesia and peony flowers, placed at the base of animalistic tones and musk.

NARCISO RODRIGUEZ: FOR HER (BLACK BOTTLE) Unusual lustful composition is created with the sensual musk in its centre, surrounded by orange, osmanthus and amber. The base unites vanilla, amber and vetiver.

Intensive sharp scent with hidden and scarcely discernible densely-sweet nuance in the centre, later turns into a soft and balmy powder. The aggression disappears and the fragrance becomes tame and gentle.

TRUSSARDI: UOMO The composition of this perfume is delightful and of high quality, just like Trussardi leather belt or portmone.

Aromatic, masculine notes of lavender, basil and spruce are in the top and they lead to the heart of the fragrance which is more spicy that floral: note of rose is followed by bay leaf, cinnamon and carnation. The sharp masculine base is made of patchouli, labdanum, and Tonka bean and, of course, leather. If you can’t find your fragrance but you’re determined to find it, ask the counter man or woman for some coffee beans. Now if you wonder why the odour of the coffee bean cleans the palette of the nose, otherwise fragrances start to smell all the same.

REMEMBER: Don’t over-do it, otherwise you’ll give yourself a headache.

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The Dancer with Blue Eyes Photography — AKIS Model — APOSTOLIS

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