World Equal MagBook Volume VI by WORLD EQUAL Magazine

VOLUME 5 // 2016

WORLDEQUAL.COM

Models: Marta Misiak and Leon Krieft Photographer: PicLoft Photography

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Front Cover: Shelley Rodgers Photography

© 2015-2018 Copyright EQUAL AND EQUAL MAGAZINE. The publisher of Equal Magazine, assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of the content placed in its publications. For the avoidance of doubt, Equal Magazine gives no warranty or guarantee in regards to any information placed in this publication. This publication is proudly designed by worldequal.com

ALTERNATIVE

MAKEUP

INK

ART

MODELS

FASHION

MUSIC

PHOTOGRAPHY

Crafty Belfast .............................................................................. 10 Zuzana Sekely Hair & Make Up Artist ...................................... 18

World Equal

Eye Candy.................................................................................... 28 Jay Freestyle ................................................................................ 34 Alan Quigley ................................................................................ 42 Colum McEvoy ............................................................................ 50 Killian McEvoy ............................................................................. 50 Stacey Paris ................................................................................. 60 Denise O’Neill ............................................................................. 62 Pip Pipkins................................................................................... 68 Chloe Aboud ............................................................................... 72 Golden Globes Exclusive Interview .......................................... 76 Paul Meekin & The Game of Thrones ...................................... 84

Kaz Hawkins Band...................................................................... 88 BELNASH ..................................................................................... 92 Éireann (Ireland) Through the Lens of Willy Gallagher ......... 98 Peter Bennett ........................................................................... 108 Valdas Kuzminskis.................................................................... 112 John Birmingham ..................................................................... 118

EQUAL Fashion Contact: For submissions and advertorial enquires: E: equalfashionmagazine@gmail.com T: +44 (0) 77 1026 0041 worldequal.com

Back Cover: Shelley Rodgers Photography 3

A wonderful thing happens when you finally accept what the little voice inside you has been telling you for years; That this life is YOURS. You start to see everything differently when you take that knowledge on-board. You start to live. It's an amazing feeling to wake up each morning knowing that you will choose how your day plays out.Oh, that’s the first thing… dump the words ‘must and ‘have to’ and replace them with ‘choose’.

Shanti Baba & One Love Things become easier once you start choosing. You choose to go to work. you choose to pay the phone bill,you choose to attend that audition. I know, I know ... you cant NOT pay the bills,but telling yourself that you’re choosing to pay them takes away the power they have to make you feel like some kind of slave. So... Pick your day. Today would be a good time but tomorrows okay too. Wake up. Take some time to locate the love that’s in everyone of us. Relish the thought that you’re alive. Have some breakfast (coffee and cigarette get me going but feel free to have something healthier) and go out into your world. Feel the air flowing into you. Listen. Smile at everyonethe homeless lady on the corner, that guy in the grey suit rushing somewhere, the kid playing ball against the wall… everyone. 4

You never know when your smile is going to be the thing that gets someone through the day. Your happiness could be the reason someone doesn't jump tonight. You are important. Of course, we cant please all the people all of the time. Not everyone has found their inner sunshine yet. But answer anger with Love,answer hate with compassion and answer spite with patience ... it's good medicine. It cures the ones who are afraid that showing Love is a weakness. That natural glow you have when you're being positive stays with people. When I was a homeless, a guy, who I assumed had it made ... he had GREAT shoes, handmade I guessed, he used to bring me a cup of coffee and a pack of smokes every week day. Always asked if I was okay. The thing I remember the most about him was that his smile was genuine. For the couple of minutes he talked to me each day was Like having the sun shine on my face. I didn't know anything about himhe never offered any information and I never asked. Anyway,a year or so Later, I was doing OK. I’d got a place to Live and a job spinning records at a club. At some point one night, I was taking a break and saw this guy. I was sure it was him,so I went and thanked him,his hair was shorter and he didn’t have the Italian shoes on, I remembered the Smile. Bask in the Light of your uniqueness. Billions of people in our world and each one of them different! That is

mind blowing! Blessed are the strange, the weird, the unusual,the different,for the world is truly ours. We change the world by our very existence. We heal our world with Love, we enhance our world with our Laughter and we Light our world with our kindness. When you get back home tonight,sit there with your hot chocolate, or your glass of wine and recall how your day went, remember the faces and places, feel the Love in your heart (maybe notice it’s a Little stronger from the smiles you got back). Today you participated fully in Life. Relax, give YOURSELF a smile. Sink into your dreams,imagine all the possibilities and rest easy. You get to do it all again tomorrow and forever! Albert Camus, the existential French writer, wrote this ... In the midst of hate,i found there was,within me,an invincible Love. In the midst of tears,i found there was within me, an invincible smile. In the midst of chaos, I found there was, within me,an invincible calm. I realised, through it all,that in the midst of winter, there was, within me,an invincible summer and that makes me happy, for it says that no matter how hard the world pushes against me,within me there is something stronger,something better,pushing right back. Recognise yourself…?

ONE LOVE.

Shelley Rodgers Founder / Editor / Owner / Photographer

Kieran Sherry Editor / Partner / Writer / Musician / Artist

S Angela Carson Columnist / Alternative Section

Christine Lynn Columnist / Alternative Section / Model / Tattoo Artist

A 6

Laura McGrath Writer / Musician

Ryan O’Hare Photographer

L Lauryn Sarah Hall Writer / Stylist / Model / Co-Owner LSH & RMNI

Pily Mirazi Entrepreneur / Public Figure

R Amy Rachel Clarke Professional Hair & Makeup Artist

Entertainment, Promotions and Modelling

P Nicci St.George Smith Writer / Producer & Aid Worker

N 7

ALTERNATIVE 9

I am very lucky to work for a few corporate business's one of which is The Bank of Ireland. I have been lucky that my father was an expert antique restoration man as a past time and my brother a bespoke cabinet maker. I work on all the wacky ideas and my my brother looks bemused and creates them anyway for me! Its great to keep it in the family. Various business call me on a consulting level for window/interior design. I have clients from Hong Kong to Portadown. I adore my passion, graft and craft. Creating ideas and seeing them unfold all derived from hairdressing from a young age thanks to my granny Constance Caldwell and my mother and father for allowing me to start up from our family home in Killinchy. Having worked all these years in the retail trade which took far too much of my creative time! Since moving back to Co Down. I rediscovered my art passion and decided I work better creating alone. Yes I will collaborate on some level with artist whether showcasing their work etc. But when it comes to Crafty, it is my vision and I definitely work better alone. A bit like when men need to go to their shed. Well I go to mine. I solely design and create everything for Crafty’s online presence and soon to be online shop which I am over the moon to be launching in 2016.

Folk can inquire about Crafty Custom Hair, fashion or Furniture through any of the links provided here. My tel/ text to book no. 07598018855 can also be printed. We also take Crafty out on the road as a mobile Guerrilla Restaurant venue whether it is a salon and making room by day and cocktails film and music by night - randomly in secret premises for private clients. Festivals and councils all over NI book to have Crafty present at their events. FB CraftyBelfastHQ We now reside in Leafy 43 Park Avenue just off the Holywood Road. FB Craftworkshop Has moved from the city centre We now reside in Leafy 43 Park Avenue just off the Holywood Road. Emma Giles & Crafty Belfast

We create custom clothing for musicians and creatives all over from Boston to Belfast.

I style hair everywhere from swish hotel suites like the Merchant to creating dreads in a hedge in a field at a festival! 11

Photography Debbie Deboo Model Emma Giles of Crafty Belfast 14

Photography Debbie Deboo Model Linzi Michelle Graham MUA Geri Nolan Fashion Styling by Emma Gilles 15

Photography Debbie Deboo Model Linzi Michelle Graham MUA Geri Nolan Fashion Styling by Emma Gilles 16

MAKEUP 17

Zuzana grew up in Slovakia and moved to Ireland 9 years ago with the view of taking her career as a hair and make-up stylist to the next level.

website: www.zuzanasekely.com facebook: Zuzana Sekely hair and make up Instagram: @zuzanasekely Pinterest: Zuzana Sekely 18

Social Links >

Red bead head Model: Black Swan Persona Hair and make up : Zuzana Sekely Photography:Edd Kavanagh 19

Zuzana says “I’m a creative, positive and passionate person. Make up been one of my passions from a very early age. I have always been blessed with a creative mind. Fashion, beauty and creativity is my obsession. I am a self-taught artist; taking my inspirations from all walks of life. Understanding beauty is more than applying makeup. As an artist you need to understand the difference that it can make.” Zuzana has worked on a variety of different artistry styles. From weddings, birthday parties and other special occasions to films, editorial photo shoots, fashion shows, special effects and even henna art. Constantly upgrading her skills and keeping up with current trends within the fashion industry Zuzana also likes to deliver work that is different from other artists creating work that has never been seen before. Zuzana hopes to follow in the footsteps of her favourite gurus and become one of the top hair and make-up stylists in Ireland and beyond!

Model: Suy Cunha Hair, make up and nails: Zuzana Sekely Photography: Noleen Kavanagh 20

Model: Suy Cunha Hair, make up, nails and headpiece : Zuzana Sekely Photography: Eddie Kavanagh

Model: Suy Cunha Hair and make up : Zuzana Sekely Photography: Noleen Kavanagh

Model: Suy Cunha Hair, make up: Zuzana Sekely Photography: Eddie Kavanagh 21

Model: Suy Cunha Hair and make up : Zuzana Sekely Photography: Noleen Kavanagh 22

Model: Black Swan Persona Hair and make up : Zuzana Sekely Photography:Edd Kavanagh 23

Model: Eilera Ellie Hair and make up: Zuzana Sekely Photography: Fely Cayaban 24

Model: Black Swan Persona Hair and make up : Zuzana Sekely Photography and headpiece: Noleen Kavanagh 26

INK 27

Brian Tipping, owner of EyeCandy tattoo studio in Bangor, is rising as a top artist in Northern Ireland with his diverse portfolio of work and having won four awards since opening in 2011. Brian had humble beginnings, using his artistic talent to do everything from painting shop displays to children’s bedrooms. When Brian’s intrigue into tattooing began,the tattoo scene was not as we know it today; Studios weren’t as common and equipment was much harder to come by. Struggling to get a place in a studio at the time, Brian practiced on friends and family, learning how to perfect his technique, a time that he remembers as being fun and exciting but also somewhat of a challenging time; “Transferring from paper to skin was a long and frustrating process but also fascinating and joyful. Its 90% confidence and that’s easy to 28

have if your working on yourself or my brother or close friend ... you know they wont be too pissed off if you fuck it up.” Brian laughs. But with only a little direction from another local artist, Brian’s achievements have been huge.”When I think about what I’ve achieved, it’s not bad. To be honest I’ve never thought about that as I just plug away at stuff but I’ve managed to throw together a career and one that I genuinely love. I love going to work and still get excited at the thought of putting ideas together for whatever I’m doing.

I can provide a comfortable life for my family also, nothing extravagant but I don’t have to search down the sofa for loose change to order a chicken curry any more.” Brian jokes. After three or four years of selfteaching and practicing, Brian decided to open EyeCandy Tattoo Studio in 2011 with only himself and Rana Yavuz, who was brought in as a body piercer but has since become a full time tattoo artist working alongside Brian.

With a string of loyal clients that Brian had brought from his learning days and an assembly of new customers, the shop has been thriving. Brian has created a relaxed environment in the studio, telling us “I like to have music on and usually let the customer choose. I love my space and decorate it with things I like; geek stuff, mostly pictures and toy figurines. It’s really chilled out, the kettles always on and there’s always good banter with the other artists.” 29

Brian has since brought in a few more artists; Neil and Scott, to help provide for the studio’s clientele demands and with vastly growing popularity and support, they too are sure to follow in suit of the studio’s success. Brian enjoys working with a variety of styles rather than restricting himself to just one or two, promoting that you will never grow as an artist by staying within your comfort zone. From black and grey portraits to Japanese to colour realism, Brian’s talents expand to all genres. “I don’t know what I want to focus on style wise, if anything I’ve never been one to choose a path early but I’m sure it’ll work itself out. I’m happy with variety as long as I get to put my spin on ideas.

I do mostly custom but 90% and prefer it but am happy with good reference.” All of the artists working in EyeCandy can bring their own style to the table, which is a huge positive to Brian as they can bounce off each other with ideas and motivation. As for plans to expand, Brian seems very content with how everything is right now and has no intentions for anything drastic as its important to him to maintain a balance of his love for tattooing and having a young family. You can catch up with Brian at the Maiden City Tattoo Convention and the N.I. Tattoo Convention this year or contact/follow him at 50 Grays hill BT20 Bangor, County Down.

jayfreestyle.com

Originally born and raised in South Africa, tattoo artist and painter Jay Freestyle grew up in a conservative Chinese family during difficult times for his beloved home country. The absence of a real creative scene in Johannesburg forced him to immigrate more than 10 years ago and he has been living and working in Amsterdam ever since. His artistic nature deeply inspired him to stray away from the traditional expectations of his family and rather develop his lifelong passion for body art. Being self-taught, his techniques and style are always unconventional. All of his work is created on the spot and literally free-styled during the session.

The spontaneity of his tattoos is the secret of what makes every single piece so unique. Breaking away from existing boundaries, the final artwork is always a great surprise to the collector. "Most describe my style as water-colour, and it definitely holds elements of such, but personally it is more. I prefer to combine various styles and techniques, such as geometrical shapes and pointillism, while at the same time mixing realism with abstraction, but at the end it all depends on the collector getting the piece." Jay's Love for travel makes him a regular visitor in all parts of the world, gaining fame for him through major tattoo convention as well as guest spotting in Leading tattoo studios. Coupled with strong work ethics and ambition, he has become a multi-award winning tattoo artist with a waiting List of up to a year. Always eager to continue growing and evolve his trademark style, Jay’s main focus is set on Large-scale tattoos. His vision is to create more than just a tattoo, “I want my art to be memorable to those who see my pieces and empowering to those who wear my pieces. I’m not Looking to tattoo the masses, rather the select few who share the same vision as me and who are willing to give up their bodies to immortalise a piece of art on them.” 36

ART 41

Alan Quigley

Born Belfast 1950. On leaving school trained as a picture framer and restorer. Moved to London and spent a short time at Hammer Studios training as a makeup artist. Returned to Northern Ireland and being an accomplished musician played in many top show bands in the late 60s and early 70s. Continued to paint and develop his style during these yea rs but had no formal raining. A chance meeting in Belfast with the late and renowned Irish artist Dan O'Neill began a career in art. Over the years Alan has developed the style Dan O'Neill taught him. His paintings captivate Ireland’s romantic past with its characters and landscape beautifully portrayed in vibrant colours. He is very much relaxed in this style and has had more than a measure of success in it. Over the years Alan has exhibited throughout Northern Ireland and Dublin and his works have been sold and are in private collections worldwide. Other commissions include musician, Chris Rea, Cricketer, Ian Botham, and other snooker legends including Jimmy White and Steve Davis. One of his most recent commissions of sporting personalities was former champion jockey Sir Antony ‘AP’ McCoy. More recently Alan has been commissioned by Jill and Rick Stein to produce a work for their restaurants in Padstow, Cornwall, Winchester and Sandbanks in Poole.Dorset. Closer to home his monumental life size painting of the late Alex Higgins is currently hanging in Belfast’s Merchant Hotel where it continues to attract much attention from a worldwide audience which is continually passing through this acclaimed establishment. Other works hang in the hotel and in other establishments run by the Beannchor Group. He is currently working on a further Large commission for a new hotel being completed by the group which he hopes will be completed within the next few months.

From a Window - Field of Tara. Oil on cotton canvas, 2014

Colum McEvoy

Diversity in expression

Samhain. Oil on cotton canvas, 2012

Rostrevor born, Dublin based and with global reach, Colum McEvoy began his professional career as an artist with one ambition: to create fine art works which stretched his own ability to capture the essence of the subject matter.

innate understanding of what art is really about. A love of the smell, the texture, the handling and care of every aspect of the work are all ingredients in the true artist’s store and both of these significant artists embraced other forms of artistic express10n.

Water colour and oil technique brings photo realism to traditional Irish landscapes, nudging the observer towards a deeper appreciation of the subliminal messages communicated by art. Pretty pictures are out, challenging fine art is in. His mentor Jim Sherry of Rostrevor impressed upon him from early in life the importance of integrity - in subject matter, materials used, the process of expression. They shared a profound,

Colum has collaborated with Marie McStay on several projects. ‘Carlingford Lough’ the first book to present the story of that area of Ireland in words and watercolour; ‘The Centre Cannot Hold’ a moving installation of personal growth through audio and visual fragments; exhibitions in pop up galleries. Key? DIVERSITY IN EXPRESSION. 47

Cove (1). Oil on linen on board, 2012.

Nano’s View, Rostrevor. Watercolour, 1994

Catherine. Watercolour, 1989

Colum McEvoy

Killian McEvoy Rostrevor artist, Killian McEvoy, started painting while at school in Newry, Co. Down. As a young student he was frequently required to design posters for school events and functions. Then he began winning art competitions. After obtaining an Education Degree in Belfast, he embarked on a life-long teaching career in Crossmaglen, in the 1970’s. Art featured prominently on his timetable, across the curriculum. He developed a preference for oils, and is now painting full-time, concentrating on local area landscapes of The Mourne Mountains and Carlingford Lough. While taking part in a number of group shows every year, he has had some very successful solo exhibitions in The G.A.P. Gallery, Newry Library, with the next major event scheduled here for May, 2017. Killian continues to work with oil on board today. Sizes begin from 10 x 12 inches, and vary up to 20 x 24 inches (before framing). All works are guaranteed original, by the artist. He normally prepares a painting with a suitably toned background wash, gradually building up layers with brushwork. Then, using a palette knife for close-up and foreground detail, the painting acquires a loose, textured and personal trademark.

A variety of paintings have found homes throughout Ireland, G.B., the U.S.A. and Europe. Secure delivery to any address abroad can be arranged. Reproductions in the form of prints and postcards continue to be distributed world-wide. An extensive back catalogue of paintings for reproduction is available from: www.picturecraftni.com This service also specialises in high quality, professional framing and secure packaging for postage and delivery. For further details on current works, prints, exhibitions, etc. contact the artist at: mcevoykillian@gmail.com or telephone: 0776 125 39 90.

Creggan Churchyard, Crossmaglen

Christmas In Rostrevor

Reflections On Carlingford Lough

The Fairy Glen, Rostrevor

Winter In Kilbroney Park

The Kilbroney River, Rostrevor

Rostrevor From Kilbroney Park

A View Of Warrenpoint

View From The Slieve Martin Path 56

The Zig-Zag Path, Slieve Martin

MODELS 59

Stacey Paris

Denise O’Neill

Denise O'Neill is well known on the Northern Ireland fashion scene pioneering the way forward for Grey haired people for miles and miles around. Her natural look has won her an army of respectful and inspired fans. 63

A guru a trendsetter an icon and Leader are all present here and still Denise has that warm and friendly way when you meet her that reminds you how nice the world can be at times. You wonder why were you so star struck. Denise's elegance is a mirror reflection of her enjoyable personality and that natural ability of being so down to earth while still being able to sail Like a glorious bird through our Lives carrying her Lush angelic waves of beautiful grey hair into our consciousness with unforgettable ephemerality. From contemporary to old time themed looks there seems to be nothing Denise O'Neill does not suit proving to us all that the stereo typical "old and grey is almost time for the scrapheap" ethos is really a load of old tosh and nonsense. We see the future is Grey and the next generation will maybe think twice about colouring their hair.

Photographer Alan Wells MUA and Hair Julia Clements.

Denise's vibe has a way of making yourself love who you are just the way you are just that little bit more. Giving all us younger folk a glimpse into a brighter future that we can all look forward too. She wears it so well.

Photographer Alan Wells MUA and Hair Julia Clements. 65

Photographer Vanessa Mills Hair by Denise O’Neill 66

Photographer: Eva Wu Iff 67

Pip

Pipkins Fifty and proud mature male model Pip The Gentleman Pipkins is a super-cool entity of fashion, with a grand beard of wisdom and experience accompanied by a moustache to live for. This Tattooed Gentleman brings acceptance and style classiness and edge all rolled into one mature package of eye candy for all generations to enjoy. His fantastic look and versatility sees him standing alongside the king in the latest Clash of Kings advertisement for German TV featuring Bastian Schwiensteiger.

FASHION 71

Chloe Aboud

Black dress Photographer Loan Hiliuta 72

Equal Fashion Magazine is very proud to be following and supporting the uniquely talented Chloe Aboud. Chloe is nineteen & turning twenty soon. Equally passionate about both her studies and her sport she is currently studying History of Art & Architecture and French at Trinity College Dublin, which she says she couldn’t love more. Art history has always intrigued Chloe, coupled with her love for trench and having the opportunity to study in a beautifully historic campus right in the heart of Dublin in her eyes makes it for the perfect combination! Chloe says “Being a full time student and an elite athlete has always been my life”, Chloe is a Taekwondo athlete & has been training for the past 14 years in the hopes of one day representing Ireland at an Olympic level.

Chloe began competing internationally at a young age, however only began training in the Olympic style of Taekwondo within the last two years with hopes of being selected to represent Ireland and compete at the Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Istanbul in January. Unfortunately, two days before heading to Morocco for the last competition before the Qualifying Tournament Disaster struck and Chloe broke and tore two ligaments in her ankle during one of her regular training sessions. “I was absolutely gutted”, Chloe also says “It’s difficult to explain the volume of hard work & dedication that goes into training at this level. For something like this to happen so close to the qualifying competition, which l1d been solely focused on, was heartbreaking”.

The past few months Chloe has been in constant ankle rehab and doing some strength and conditioning work. Chloe determinedly says "The thing about having any injury is to ensure it is rehabbed properly to prevent it from reoccurring and I am endeavouring to get back to training at full strength asap. So unfortunately, that's what I'm doing at the moment. It's an important concept to grasp, that this is sport & these things can happen. My Olympic dream has been put on hold for the moment but myself & my amazing team and family are already looking to Tokyo in 2020". Chloe has always enjoyed modelling & pursuing that passion has been a lot of fun this past few months for her.

Coupled with Taekwondo, it makes for an interesting contrast! Chloe tells us she has met some great people in the industry, signing with Suzzie D Model Management a few weeks ago has led to some exciting adventures and new opportunities! "I really am looking forward to working with Suzzie over the coming months and seeing what the future has in store! We wish you the very best Chloe and we hope to see you take home a Gold to Ireland so the red carpet can carry you while you your stuff in that lovely gold dress with your gold medal. Best of Luck to you!

Gold Dress Photographer Paul Dillion 75

Golden Globes Exclusive Interview with Jennifer Clerkin & Kieran Sherry

In the more rural parts of Ireland you'll often hear wise old sayings drift past your ear on a regular basis and you cant help but feel like your living stranded in an old ancient bygone era that never caught up on modern day life at all. One of my personal favourite colloquialisms has to be when you are trying your best to fix something or sprucing yourself up to go on a night out, somebody will tell you “Ach, your wasting your time you cant make a silk purse out of a pigs ear”. Jokes with a jag are common place and you develop a thick skin quickly. In the case we have here it certainly did become a silk purse when the one time destined to be Pig Farmer Jim Clerkin took the Leap forward into a different kind of business and ended up the President of Moet & Chandon & Louis Vuitton. Proving anything is possible. Jim invited his daughter Jennifer to the Golden Globe Awards earlier this year and we are delighted she has Let us interview her to hear what her first time experience was Like. With a stunning dress made by the very talented young up & coming designer Eamon McGill who only had one weeks notice to prepare his amazing dress for Jennifer she Looked absolutely stunning and that smile never stopped gleaming all night. Here is what Jennifer Clerkin had to say about Life inside the Golden Globe.

Ach, your wasting your time you can’t make a silk purse out of a pigs ear. 76

Ql1 The dress you wore at the Globes was very beautiful. Who made it for you? A1. Eamon McGill from Co. Louth Carlingford. Q2. I heard the Designer Eamon McGill was the youngest designer to feature a dress at the Golden Globes and this was your first time at the event. You looked very natural and comfortable in the photos, like an experienced Globe Trotter lol, were you nervous at all? A2. I believe so, but I am not 100%, sure if he was the youngest ever feature designer but he is a very talented young designer. I was nervous the morning of the Globes but the hair and make up team of the Beverly Wilshire hotel were brilliant and made me feel very special, they told me that everyone is an individual and I have something else that's no one else has so just enjoy it. Plus my dad was very reassuring he just said lets have fun and enjoy the carpet and that's what we did. Q3. Who is your favourite three male celebs? A3. Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp and Leo. Q4. Who is your top three female celebs? A4. Jennifer Lawrence, Rita Ora, and Kate Husdon.

very nice. He stood on my dress, a few celebrities were standing on my dress but they apologised. At the after party, I spoke with Morgan Freeman and Helen Mirren who I never knew were great friends. Helen looks great in real life as well as on screen. I spoke with Olivia Palermo as she was at my table and sat beside me throughout the awards, she is a friend of Moet also. My mum is a huge fan of presenter Maria Menounos who did a video shout out for my mum and thanked her for watching. Q6 Myself and Shelley sat up all night in bed with some bubbly & beer and watched the whole Golden Globes banter unfurl in real time on yours and Eamon McGill’s face book pages as you guys were posting photos it was brilliant craic. Will we get the chance to see this all happen again sometime do you think you would go again? A6 I would love to go to the Golden Globe Awards again as it is such a special experience but I don’t think I would be going any time soon as I have an older sister and two brothers that probably will want to go before me. But, if I did get the chance again I would jump on it.

Q5. Did you get to speak to any celebs at the event what was the craic? A5. I got to talk to a lot of the celebrities as I was walking down the carpet with them, kate Hudson took my selfie for me, we spoke with Jamie fox and he was at my after party table as he is a friend of Moet and his daughter was Miss Golden Globe, Jamie and I even danced on a table together. The carpet is very busy and celebs are being pushed and shoved everywhere and people are calling their names so they don’t have a lot of time to speak to you on the carpet but in the awards and the after party they are much more relaxed, there is always an army of people wanting to speak to them when they come off stage. I spoke with Terrence Howard from Empire, we walked down the carpet with each other, he and his wife are 77

Q7 You and your Father really looked the part and if you don’t mind me saying you had two of the greatest smiles in the room. Were you reluctant at all when he asked you to go to it with him. Or did you get into the role easily & quickly with no hang ups? A7. lt all happened so fast I flew home from Australia for Christmas and on Christmas Day my dad asked me did I want to go to the Golden Globe Awards as my older sister was meant to go but she just had a baby a few week beforehand so she wasn1t able to travel. I didn’t really think I would end up going, or that it would materialise. I was very nervous and talking myself out of going but my flight came through on New Year1s Eve I thought to my self this is a once and life time opportunity and everyone I spoke to encouraged me to go. I emailed my work to notify them I was extending my trip and a few days later I was in LA staying in the Beverly Wilshire hotel were Pretty Woman was filmed. Q8. How did you know Eamon McGill and was it difficult to get a dress made by him. Tell us how that all came about & what is it about his designs that attracted you to choose his work ? A8. I heard Eamon was an up and coming designer I was familiar with some of his work and on New Year1s Eve I contacted him through lnstagram and we met up the day after New Year1s Day. I didn1t think he would believe me that I was going to the Golden Globes. He did a great job making the dress in less than a week ! Plus I wanted to wear an Irish designer on the carpet and I was very proud to wear his design. Q9. Was it difficult to manoeuvre in the dress with such a long and delicate trail for example did any celebs like Leonardo Di Caprio stand on it by mistake on the red carpet? A9. Funny you say that Eamon had shown me how to walk in the dress in the few dress fittings that we had, my dress and Terrance Howard carried my trail for me. All of a sudden I felt my dress become light and looked behind 78

and Terrence was holding my dress saying 11all in the name of fashion11 then laughed. Q10. The old saying goes “What goes on tour stays on tour” are we going to hear of any after parties, did you party on into the early wee hours or was it a long evening and beddy byes when it was over? A10. Well I seen quentin Tarantino pull of some crazy dance moves, I also spoke to Morgan freeman and I asked for a photo but he kindly declined but said would a hug for God be OK as a substitute. I also seen Katey Perry and Orlando Bloom together this is apparently were they become a couple. I stayed to the very end to the after party we had a car come and pick us up. The music was brilliant and I was having so much fun. Q11. Who were you wishing would win a Golden Globe on the night. Did your wish come true? A11. I was happy that Leo won a Golden Globe.

Paul Meekin & The Game of Thrones

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Game of Thrones beauty Ellaria Sand got a fresh new look in Paris this week thanks to the skills of award-winning local hairdresser Paul Meekin. Paul was one of an elite group of UK and Ireland hair stylists chosen to star in the biggest hairdressing extravaganza in the world organised by Revlon Professional in Paris on Monday 18th April 2016. The glittering Style Masters Show 2016 International Contest broke all records when 4,400 stylists from 60 countries across the world came together in the French capital. One man from the specialised and select number of "masters" chosen to close the Game of Thrones themed spectacle was Belfast's own stylist to the stars, Paul Meekin, director of Partners Hair+ Beauty in Belfast. Paul was given the task of creating his interpretation of a new look for Game of Thrones' Ellaria Sand for the grand finale of the five-hour gala event. An ecstatic Paul Meekin said: "This is the biggest hair show in the world and I was really honoured to be asked by Revlon Professional to be part of the UK and Ireland team. “The guy in charge of Revlon worldwide told us that he believed the best talent in hairdressing in the world was to be found in the UK and Ireland. “W e were sworn to secrecy f or a month about the theme so I couldn’t tell anyone that I was styling for such an iconic character as Ellaria Sand. “Her hair has such volume and long, spirally soft curls and it is a look that has filtered down onto the streets with girls even getting extensions to try and recreate it.” I just gave her a glossier more polished look suitable for the catwalk and our team got to close the show which was pretty spectacular. “They had amazing graphics from Games of Thrones with flying dragons and they even piped in the smells of the forest onto the stage.” He added: “It was absolutely wonderful to work with so many talented hairdressers from the UK and Ireland.” 86

MUSIC 87

Kaz Hawkins Band

KAZ HAWKINS

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MANAGEMENT Email: robmontmusic@gmail.com Tel: +44(0) 7504016222 BAND PA (Katie) Email: kazhawkinssongs@gmail.com BAND TOUR MANAGER (David) david_saunderson@hotmail.com www.kazhawkins.com 88

KAZ HAWKINS BAND Kaz Hawkins (Vocal, Guitar, Piano, Percussion) Nick McConkey (Guitar) Peter Uhrin (Drums, Vocal, Percussion) Jan Uhrin (Bass) Deanne Jones (Backing Vocals)

Northern Ireland blues darling Kaz Hawkins is no longer its best-kept secret. The musical prodigy won the Pure M Award for 2015 AllIreland Best Female artist in a ceremony streamed live to the world on 26 September 2015. Beating nine acts to the prize, the Belfast East Side Arts ambassador flew the flag for Northern Ireland at the Pure M Awards, just as she did when she accepted the prestigious Barry Middleton Award for Emerging Artist at the British Blues Awards on 15 September. Kaz was also nominated for Northern Ireland’s prestigious NI Music Prize in 2014 and again in 2015. Kaz’s stellar rise to success will be no surprise to the Northern Ireland’s music fiends and blues fans over the world she has been wooing for years with her deep, powerful voice, original song writing and soulful tracks, the latest featured in her Get Ready album which won the Blues Matters’ Writers Poll Best Studio Album of 2015. No mean feat for the 43 year old funky grandma who owes surviving a life of physical and emotional hardship to music and a larger-than-life personality that doesn’t take setbacks lying down! Described as high energy soul KHB as they are known pack a punch as they push the boundaries of blues. KHB are about to launch their next album & UK Tour aptly named Feelin’ Good. www.kazhawkins.com https://twitter.com/kazhawkins

KAZ HAWKINS

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BELNASH

The Belfast Nashville Songwriters Festival A selection of video stills of Jo-Jo O' & The WOODS from their new music video release. Photography stills and Video by Paul Heary of Irish Video Design.

PHOTOGRAPHY

The Cooley Mountains of Carlingford where Finn McCool the sleeping giant can be seen on the top left edge of the Mountain. Taken from Warrenpoint. Photographer: Willy Gallagher

Éireann Ireland Through the Lens of Willy Gallagher

Warrenpoint is a beautiful vintage harbour town located on the northern shores of Carlingford Lough. It is one of Éireann’s most stunningly beautiful locations. With it’s uniquely symmetrical landscape and seascape view of the Mourne and Cooley mountains providing a gateway to the Irish Sea your breath does be taken away on a daily basis in rain, hail, sunshine or snow. 98

When a mist rolls over and down the mountains,when the springtime rainbows appear, disappear then reappear all over the hamlet of land and sea, when the famous “Kettle Spouts” (our mini water tornadoes) do their manic sea dance sequence on a windy day entertain us, whatever it is, the great slumber of the legendary sleeping giant Finn McCool on top of his Cooley mountain remains undisturbed in the knowing that this treasured paradise is his garden of eden at play. In any event if he were rudely awoken he would only step over the lough to the mountains of Mourne to grab “Cloughmore” AKA “ The BigStone” his legendary 50 tonne granite boulder

to hurl at whoever is acting the eejit! All these places surround the vintage beauty of the harbour town called Warrenpoint and this is where our journey begins. With local man and Photographer Willy Gallagher who is going to take us all on a whirlwind adventure by going out into Éireann to capture her with his lens in all her green glory and to also see what other surprises may come his way. When Willy told me his plan I asked could we follow him on his journey and to our great delight he kindly accepted and allowed us to do an interview to bring us all into “The Frame”. 99

Mammatus Clouds over Slieve Martin of The Mourne Mountains on Easter Sunday 2016 Photographer: Willy Gallagher

Q1. We at Equal Fashion Magazine are very excited to hear you are going on a “Walk About” with your lens to capture some of what Éireann has to offer and whatever comes your way. It makes us feel very free and adventurous. Circumstances keep some of us from travelling which is a wonderful and nourishing experience so thank you very much for letting us follow you on your journey. Have you anything in particular you would like to capture or is the adventure and not knowing what’s in front of you the thrill or, could it be a mixture of both? A1. I would say for sure it’s going to be a mixture of both,yes of course there our places that spring to mind right away all over the country,but for me I don’t want to be limited to what I am going to go and capture or indeed feel the need to go and follow in the foot steps of all the others and try to see it though my eyes,a good friend and wonderful black and white photographer Thomas Keeley said to me once “Willy, try not to stand in the spot where you see a set off foot prints and 3 hole’s in the ground” so try to be original. As long as I can do the place justice 100

and get stuck in there, you know go talk to the locals find out about those hidden gems. If I can pull that off I will be a happy camper. Q2. What inspired you to take the plunge into the unknown? A2. I think what inspired me the most to want to take this journey is on April 28th 2016 I will be 2 years sober and free from an alcohol and drug problem that controlled my life for so long and I could not even imagine how much my life has changed in that time,not saying it was easy because it was not easy at all, but I needed help and I got it. A friend of mine Dani Botos who was always there by my side in my early recovery said to me one afternoon just as we were going to hike up to Slieve Martin in County Down, do you want to buy my camera of me, he gave me a great price for it so I said YES! And I took it from there. I have a family that love and support me and I will be forever grateful to them for not giving up on me as I put them through a lot and I mean a lot. This

is something I want to do for myself not to try and prove anything but rather the fact that I feel that I can do it and to feel that way after coming through what I did that’s an amazing feeling, I don’t have to sit and try to think my life better anymore,thinking my life better didn’t get me off the bar stool,action got me off and action will get my round the country, looking at life though a new pair a glasses you could say. Q3. We spoke briefly on the phone before about this adventure and you said as soon as you get your driving test and a motor your going on the road with your camera. We have some images of your local surroundings to show our readers your starting point and hopefully as you set off further into the Emerald Isle we will be able to not only watch your journey throughout Ireland evolve but also your photography. Are you as excited as we are and do you hope to grow as an Artist within the Art of Photography or are you just going for a long walk like Forrest Gump, (I wish Forrest had a camera with him he seen some amazing views).

A3. Very Excited I am looking forward to getting on the road not over 45mph!! Of course,thats going to good because will get a good chance to have a good look around lol. I do want to grow in photography but there is no rush,you know when I look back over shot that I took nearly 2 years ago to what I am getting now I can see the growth and that’s within me also I learned to slow do not to take things to seriously and putting unnecessary pressure on myself, instead I have learned to slow down and enjoy it as it happens {much better} for me. Forrest had a good run for sure but now all I can think about is chocolates thanks a bunch!! Q4. What kind of camera are you taking with you now? A4. The camera I am going to be taking with me is a canon 550d its my first camera and faithful workhorse although its a starter or beginner camera if you like its the one I use almost daily so I am use to it,lens wise will have a canon 18-55mm also 75-300mm zoom lens and just in case a 85mm portrait lens and a £30 tripod some 101

Stormy Warrenpoint taken from Warrenpoint Beach. Photographer: Willy Gallagher

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UV and polarising, few neutral density[nd] filters that I got for £20 on ebay so when it comes to the gear I am taking with nothing fancy I have a canon 6d on the way but going to stick to 550d because I don’t believe you need all the latest gear to take a great photograph that does help but you can have all the gear and no idea,a lot of people see a shot and think wow look at that the photographer must have used a top of the range camera, but it has to do with who is behind it, the person who used their eye maybe stood there for ages to wait for the right light or for the rain to pass even a nice looking set of clouds to roll by,getting down and dirty to frame the shot numb hands and wet feet just to get the angle they wanted all these sort of things,thats why I try and pack the bag and wear the appropriate clothing for what I am going to shoot that day and always try and let someone know where I am going and put my gps on{you never know!} but all about the person behind the camera in my opinion,like you don’t read a great book and think that must have been a top of the range typewriter!!

work,just like this trip around Ireland heading into the unknown seeing places for the first time meeting new people sometimes it can be so peaceful on the side of a mountain at 5am setting up for a sunrise good time to have a think and get the head straight I always make time to put the camera down and just sit for a while and soak it all in, some of the best photos you can take are with your mind! But also I love working with people I love watching someone who is a bit camera shy start to relax and get in to a shoot and I think a great way of doing that is to have a wee chat find out things about them keep them talking as I start shooting we could be 10 shots in before they know it and I love taking the camera over to them and showing them the shots as we go along I have been lucky to have met some really fantastic people,and of course if you get on with them they tell there friends and your building up a customer base.

Q5. How long would you say you have had an interest in photography?

A7. Let’s just see how it goes but the plan is all over the place have to do it in between bookings but hope to be away if possible a week at a time then home and off we go again, the weather is going to play a major role so fingers crossed.

A5. I would say about 15 years but only started less than 2 years ago, but finally have found what I want to do, everyday I learn something else about the camera and about light, and lighting techniques,people places,all sorts so its not boring at all,it has a way of calming me down I feel so chilled when I have the camera in my hands with something or someone in front of me I sometimes just get lost in it I love when that happens. Q6. The great outdoors never stands still and you are about to travel at a wonderful time in the year when our weather can be very changeable, sunny and wet so I hope the dynamics of light will be in your favour. Do you find any particular type of photography more interesting than another, eg do you prefer shooting landscapes to people or buildings or do you like it all that comes your way? A6 I really love it all but I think for me its really hard to answer because on one hand I love the landscape 104

Q7. How long and how far do you intend to travel on your Journey through Ireland?

Q8. Where are you planning to go next with your camera or is it a surprise? A8. I think I will head deeper in to County Down and possibly County Antrim and come back that way when it is all over,come full circle if you like! Q9. Is there anywhere in Ireland on this journey in particular that you simply must take a photograph of ? A9. Well my mother is from Fermanagh and my grandfather was a gardener down there and worked by a castle on a lake,so I want to find out more about that for sure and Heels Pass in County Kerry is a must for me. I seen a picture of it before that a friend of mine took who is a lorry driver from Manchester. When Charlie showed me the picture I looked at for ages it was stunning so that

Narrow Water Castle Warrenpoint

Cloughmore AKA The BigStone @ Rostrevor’s Mourne Mountain on Slieve Martin

Reminiscing at Warrenpoint Looking out over Carlingford Lough to the Irish Sea. Mourne Mountains on Left Slieve Martin which has the 50 tonne granite stone known as Cloughmore situated on top of it and the Cooley Mountains on right with the legendary sleeping giant Finn McCool in his slumber on the Top Left corner silhouette edge.

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is a must also,the rest I’m going to play by ear as they say,and I think also as I am going along hopefully the readers of Equal mag will suggest some neat places to go somewhere off the beaten track a bit, and help me on my way which I am sure they will. Q10. What do you love taking photographs of the most? A10. I think the diversity it’s giving me at the moment as I try and find a certain area of photography that maybe I will stick with i.e. landscape,wedding, fashion, portraits etc although I am mostly known locally for landscape and seascape I could settle on something entirely different so in a way still trying to find myself that way but loving the learning of all the aspects of photography it gives me a buzz that is hard to describe. I remember the first time doing a holy communion and handing the images over and the wee girls mother started to cry because she was so happy with what we got that day and sent me a lovely card in the post afterwards and I have got quite a few cards now at the moment and they really do cheer you up if your not having the best of a day and great to look back on. It’s such a good feeling to get a reaction like that from someone its a great lift. But as much as I love the landscape I also like people on a shoot, getting to know someone on a new level, a more intimate level. I have been on a shoot recently and had the customer completely open up to me about all sorts of things that was going on in her life,and that helps me to know that someone can feel that comfortable around me. They say don’t work with kids and animals but I love working with both and I think people who say that don’t have bills to pay!! I do!! Ha ha. Q11. We wish you a very safe and happy fulfilling journey out there on the road. Maybe you will capture an old character in the village of Cong in County Mayo where the movie the Quiet Man was shot with John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, maybe you’ll catch a salmon rising the leap as the fishing season draws closer, maybe you’ll find a pot of gold at the end of a rainbow or catch the morning dew drops on the spiders webs in a random field, who knows, but we wish you all the best and with one last 106

question. Who or what is your biggest inspiration? A11. My biggest inspiration is my family they have being so much support to me this past 2 years could not have done it without them my mother and father in particular. I have a great relationship with them today getting sober was not easy but it would have been a dam lot harder without them by my side I can tell you that,and my very good friend Terry if not for him and my father we would not be having this conversation. Lastly before I head off I want to say a big thanks to Shelley Rodgers and Kieran Sherry for this amazing idea and opportunity with Equal Mag I hope to see you all soon and don’t forget to let me know if there is anywhere you think I should visit and if you bump into me on the way please feel free to come over and chat for a while don’t be stranger. So starting off in County.Down and I will let you all know in the next issue where I will be going from there. Thanks again hope to see some of you out on my travels.

Warrenpoint outdoor Vintage Baths

Carlingford Lough with Mourne Mountains on Left and Cooley Mountains on the Right taken from Flagstaff viewpoint. Photographer: Willy Gallagher 107

Peter Bennett

Peter Bennett is predominantly a studio photographer based in Bangor, County Down Northern Ireland.a full time professional for over 3 years. Best known for his physique and sports portraiture he has recently starting shooting some more alternative genres and looking to expand this part of his portfolio. Peter likes to shoot dramatic and contrasting images and says “I have a style similar (but not necessarily as good as!) Joel Grimes”. You can find Peter Bennett on Facebook / Instagram.

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Photographer Peter Bennett Hair and Make Up Amy Rachel Clarke Model Heather McLean 110

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Valdas Kuzminskis Models: Leon World, Marta Misiak - Model 113

Valdas Kuzminskis is an Lithuanian freelance photographer from Dublin. He has been Living and working in Ireland for 8 years. As many photographers today he started gaining photo shooting knowledge through on-the-job experience and he has created his own professional portfolio with his best photographs to act as his resume and he named it Picloft Photography. He believes that photography is not just about knock out obvious shots, it's rather more about being able to take a photograph, which communicates with people. He focuses on Light, shape and colour, because these things according to him captures the story and Life behind the pictures and tells the story and emnotion of the model.

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John Birmingham

Model: Maggie Walsh, MUA / Stylist: Maggie Walsh, Lady Havok Make Up

John Bermingham of "All That Can Be Productions" is a visual digital artist and photographer based in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Working in mixed digital media John creates stylised, fantasy portraits and environments. Also working in video and animation, John has produced a number of music videos and shorts and also released his self produced album 'Everything is wonderful' in 2013. Mostly self taught John combines 3d modelling, photography,and digital compositing to create his work. John had a number of exhibitions of his work last year in Waterford, Clonmel, Carrick on Suir, and in Dungarvan. 118

Model: Olivia Flynn

Model: Kari Campbell

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Model: Olivia Flynn 120

Model: Maggie Walsh, MUA / Stylist: Maggie Walsh, Lady Havok Make Up

Model: Louise Barry

Model: Maggie Walsh, MUA / Stylist: Maggie Walsh, Lady Havok Make Up 121

Prepared by MagCloud for Shelley Rodgers. Get more at worldequal.magcloud.com.

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