Angela Lindvall On Learning To Embrace The Unknown

Model, mother, environmentalist and Kundalini Yoga practitioner, Angela Lindvall has been at the top of her game for nearly two decades. One lazy Sunday morning, Angela and I chatted by phone from her home in Topanga, California as she reflected on her career and the importance of self-care.

I thought we could start with when you moved to New York and what your first impressions were when you arrived.

The first time I visited New York I was barely 16. I went to check out agencies and see what this world was about. I went to see if this was a possibility for me and I was like wow, this world is so big and so much is going on. I hadn’t really considered modeling and it wasn’t really even an option. I was the black sheep from a small town and I always knew there was this big world out there so this was my opportunity to go see what that was about. It wasn’t until I was 17 that I moved there and realized that I really did have the opportunity to create a career. I was like OK let me see if I can make this happen and moved to New York and started travelling.

Things seemed to, at least on the surface, take off for you pretty quickly once you arrived. Is that correct?

It did. I went to Paris and met both Craig McDean and Juergen Teller and that kind of was a big start for me.

Was that around the time that you shot the Miu Miu campaign?

Yes. I shot Italian Vogue with Juergen Teller and it’s so cool because back then it was pre-digital and it was literally him and his wife who was styling and his assistant. We didn’t even have hair and makeup. In those days they didn’t have 20 assistants to the photographer.

I often hear veteran models say the element of surprise and fun is gone from the process; it’s much more corporate. Do you feel the same?

Yeah, it’s unfortunate. I feel that in any endeavor whenever challenges are given to us they really are opportunities to push ourselves creatively. You had this intimacy and time to play and you never knew exactly what you were going to get until the film was developed. You would have Polaroid to look at and have an idea but there was this element of creation that happened and now there is a computer screen and everybody is watching and waiting.

In some ways being able to see what we are doing has definitely given me a lot better perspective of my job and what I am creating. I remember when I first started modeling, Mario Testino showed me these photos he shot of me and said Look at these! Look at these! You look hideous. But in this one you look amazing. All it takes is one good shot and you are gorgeous but you need to pay more attention.

I was like wow! You only see the finished product so seeing what everybody sees makes you a lot more vulnerable but at the same time you know what’s working and what’s not working really quickly.

Have you always been environmentally conscious or is that something you developed later on?

Well, I think growing up in nature I didn’t even think anything of it. I had no idea we even had environmental issues to face. I just was a nature girl but I’ve always been a rebel and someone who goes against the grain. I was so appreciative of my career and the opportunities that were coming but at the same time my roots were ripped from the earth and I felt like I was floating. I longed so deeply to put my roots back in the ground. It was during the time that I lived in New York that I started to question things. I started looking at what’s in our food and water on the Internet. When I was 18 people weren’t using computers like they are now. I have always been a researcher. I love to read and once I started discovering this stuff I wondered why it wasn’t on the front page of the newspaper. I was very naïve and started my own nonprofit. I created a magazine and through that we created a big farming initiative that’s still in existence in upstate New York.

Did you feel conflicted operating in a world which is very much about consumerism and excess and all of those things?

Absolutely, I have always felt conflicted. I felt conflicted being a tomboy and a supermodel. I felt conflicted about the environment and consumerism. Now I am taking my journey as an environmentalist deeper and exploring self-care. I got to a point at the height of having my organization and going through a divorce and my sister dying suddenly and having two boys and trying to help create change on the planet and my world is falling apart. So I thought I needed to focus on my world first and foremost and that led me on an inward journey that is continuing.

What does self-care mean to you? I think that people now have a greater understanding that if you don’t take care of yourself then you can’t be there for anybody else.

Exactly, I think that so much of our world is stimulated by external factors like the way that we look or how we appear, what our status is and what are we doing next to what we buy. It’s like people are going crazy. We have more stimulation in the world today than our grandparents probably had in their whole lifetime. I think people are seeking peace and calm, this connection with our infinite self. I think that through the choices that we make to take care of our self, to take care of our bodies, to take care of our thoughts, to take care of others, affects the larger host. If each one of us are taking care of ourselves then we would live in a much happier world.

I feel that as we are more digitally connected we are less connected as people. There is a lack of intimacy. Posting on social media gives a false sense of connection.

That’s interesting what you say because my journey started as an environmental pioneer and now the word intimacy and the idea of connection, first with our self but then connecting with others. I study Kundalini Yoga which works with the light force energy which is the sexual energy. I raised two young boys that will be teenagers and I am just thinking about when I was a teenager and what I was taught and what I wasn’t told. No one told me about my own power, my own life generating power and this ability to rise this energy up and to cultivate and then to share and connect on a deeply intimate level. I feel like we live in a world now that is so debased and disconnected and so stimulating on so many levels that it’s carrying us away from this core of the deepest most intimate connections that we can cultivate. I think that’s the new revolution. I mean even in some way it’s a new sexual revolution. So, I’m a little ahead of the curve but mark my word.

Are you familiar with The Tao of Pooh? One of the main principles is the concept of just being.

I’ve never read that.

I think a lot of people operate from a place of fear and try to control the outcome of situations which causes a lot of anxiety.

It’s so true. I love the saying we are human beings, not human doings. There is so much focus on what we are you doing. I was walking down the red carpet and I don’t know always stop to do interviews but I happened to stop this time and the interviewer asked what projects I was working on. I said I was working on me and they responded, oh so you can’t talk about it. No, that’s what I’m working on and it’s a pretty big job. It’s so beautiful that I have surrendered into this space of not knowing the future. I walked into this year as if I had a white canvas. Instead of being in a state of anxiety it’s so amazing.

I’m deeply in my meditation every day and I have found that in that stillness I become open and connected. Now things are coming to me. Everything that I want to create is coming to me and I’m saying yes. This year I was asked to teach yoga. It’s been so beautiful to just step into that phase without fear and how it’s unfolding a whole other deeper space of my learning through teaching because it keeps forcing me to connect on a whole different level and show up on a different level. I was asked to teach at a big impact summit in Madison Square Gardens. Then, I was asked to speak at a women’s symposium and I’m starting to develop a women’s online course with some friends. It’s going to take a little bit of time but this is what I’m supposed to be doing. I’m just going be in it and not worry.

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Posted on March 23, 2016 by theculturalomnivore in Female Models

Mary Howard: The Most Influential Set Designer In Fashion Today

As the most prolific and influential set designer working today, Mary Howard has collaborated with photographers Steven Meisel, Annie Leibovitz, Patrick Demarchelier, Steven Klein, Mario Testino and Bruce Weber to name but a few. Her work for leading editors and creative directors such as Grace Coddington, Tonne Goodman and Phyllis Posnick at Vogue, along with celebrities such as Madonna, Lady Gaga and the Rolling Stones in addition to Queen Elizabeth, President Obama and The First Lady has resulted in some of the most talked about images of the modern era.

How would you describe what you do?

I am a production designer for photography, primarily fashion and celebrity. What I do is similar to a production designer for a film, creating the world around the subject – model or talent. Whether it be a location that we set dress or a set that we build in studio.

How did you get into set design?

I have a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Painting but since being an artist wasn’t really paying the bills, I began to make things for float builders in New Orleans for Mardi Gras and then for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This led to freelance work building props and costumes for clients like Ringling Brothers Circus and Saturday Night Live and store windows in New York. There was no such career as what we know now as set designer for print photography. Richard Avedon needed a beach landscape and that is the first set I built in 1993.

You trained as a painter and performance artist. How has your background influenced your approach to design?

I am obviously very visual. Painting as a medium is extremely seductive to me. Performance is interesting because there is usually a meaningful context or place that the live event is happening and props and objects and furniture that are important for whatever the live action is.

You have a frame of reference that a lot of people lack today. How much of your method is instinctual versus technical?

I do work a great deal with instinct. I have learned technical aspects of what I do through trial and error. Though the mistakes, say using the wrong material, then become a surprise and then we work with it. I am constantly saying “try that’ or “let’s just see” and then snap the camera and you can see what works in the set. What you thought should or could never work suddenly and magically does in the camera.

Where do you source your ideas and what inspires you?

So many things inspire me. I do a lot of image research. I love to see what has been done before in art, film, painting and now that everyone on the planet is a photographer with their phones I look at Pinterest and Instagram and Google images to see billions of points of views of the same subject. It’s overwhelming and exciting.

The Fluxus movement is a particular passion of yours. What about that period resonates with you?

The objects in Fluxus performances are not precious but they are important and necessary to the action. It’s theater but it stems from the visual arts.

When you’re commissioned to work on a project how much autonomy are you granted and what is your methodology?

It depends on the job. Sometimes we get the client’s or photographer’s brief and it can range from being very detailed to sometimes just a word to describe; an adjective. Then we do a great deal of image research and sourcing of elements for the set. We take in a huge view of options and possibilities and then hone in and refine. The lead time on the majority of our shoots is only a week, or even less, so the prep happens at a furious pace.

What’s the biggest misconception about what you do?

Probably that it is fun or glamorous – and it is, but those things are only for a few seconds. I would say it is extremely physical, mentally challenging, very fast paced, you need to be able to turn on a dime and switch gears at a second’s notice. My favorite moments on set are when a truck arrives with a last minute table or chair that I am waiting for and know will make the picture.

Where do you hope to be in five years?

I would love to have more long-term projects, designing hotels or stores. My studio is expanding with several younger set designers and I would love to see them grow into bigger jobs. It has been great watching their careers and their creativity. They all started out assisting me but now I am learning so much from them.

Posted on March 7, 2016 by theculturalomnivore in Fashion

Introducing August Gonet

California native August Gonet may not be a household name yet but he is slowly gaining traction in the fashion industry. His striking bleach-blond crop and angular features can be seen in edgy editorials and on the runways of New York. The self-proclaimed baby has a realistic view about his role in the industry and hopes to leave his mark. Expect to see a lot more of August in the future.

How were you discovered?

I went to an open call in Sacramento for Stars Model Management, who is my mother agency, and they signed me the next day.

What are your aspirations and goals for the future?

Practically speaking, I want to make a living from modeling. I also have a list in my head of my favorite designers and photographers that I hope to get a chance to work with.

What do you hope to get out of your modeling career?

Money, but I also want to make a name for myself in the fashion and art industry. When my name is brought up I want there to always be a positive reaction. I have heard so many photographers and stylists complain about awful models and I never want to be that. I want people to want to work with me.

How do you handle the pressure and rejection that comes with modeling?

I have a very realistic view of the industry. I understand that I am a piece of art to these people so when I am not chosen, I don’t take it personally. My exterior did not fit their vision. It has nothing to do with me as a person. Also, I understand that my success is based on the choices of other people. This is one of the few work fields where “working hard” won’t guarantee success. With that in your head, it’s easy not to let the pressure get to you because at the end of the day, the choices are not in your control.

What do you think people would be surprised to learn about you?

I love this question. A lot of people don’t know that I was a competitive gymnast for a long time along with my sister. We got the chance to travel around to competitions at a young age and compete at Worlds in Amsterdam and Belgium. Those were some of the best times in my life.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

It’s a tie. I worked with Harley Weir and Guido for my first shoot ever in New York. I went to the casting before I was technically signed to an agency in New York, so when I confirmed the job, me and my mother agency were so so excited. This past New York Fashion week I walked the Fenty X Puma show with Rihanna. Pat McGrath did my makeup herself while Rihanna styled my look. I was freaking out and trying to stay cool all day.

How do you cope when you are away from your family and friends?

I don’t cope. I’m such a baby. I complain all the time about how much I miss them. Thank God for FaceTime and group chats.

What do you like to do in your spare time to decompress?

Anything to get me outside and in nature. If I’m in California, then it’s going to Lake Tahoe, either skiing or going on my favorite hikes. In New York, it’s going to these secret little places I have saved around the city where it doesn’t feel like New York anymore. I visit those often.

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Posted on February 25, 2016 by theculturalomnivore in Male Models

Cate Underwood: Modeling, Photography & Her Multifaceted Career

Cate Underwood, the pulchritudinous Kiev native, has photographed editorials for Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE , V magazine and a cover of L’Officiel Ukraine in addition to fronting campaigns for All Saints, H&M, Zara, Free People and Rodebjer. When not in front of the camera, or behind it, she can be found spinning the decks at events such as Vogue‘s Fashion Night Out. I spoke with the multi-talented and achingly cool Cate as she talked about what inspires her and where she hopes to be in 20 years.

Tell us about how you got into the fashion industry.

I started taking pictures when I was very young. I used to take pictures of my friends, all those beautifully dressed-up people hanging out in clubs and at parties. I liked how frivolous and bizarrely beautiful they looked. Then I realized I was more interested in their appearance than in the scene itself. I started doing fashion photography, making model test and taking on small independent projects. It was very amateur, very spontaneous but I really loved the process. Then I won a fashion photography contest in Ukraine that led to bigger publications, editorials and covers. I love the new scale, the opportunities and responsibility as well.

What inspires and motivates you?

People, beauty and my daughter Eva. I’ve been very fortunate to work with people who push the envelope and who are passionate about what they do. What I’m trying to do is to show a different kind of beauty, something subversive yet sublime, something that has meaning. I like people and things that have flaws and imperfections. I think that’s what makes them honest and real. Giving birth to my daughter was the biggest motivating force for me; I matured greatly, in an instant. I’m happy to have had her so soon. I am raising Eva and at the same time she gives me strength to build my career, do my photography, create, improve myself and my personality.

How has being a photographer influenced the way you model?

For me, switching from photography to modeling was a rather natural and liberating experience. I like the idea of being on the both sides of the lens, of changing the roles. As a photographer you feel in total control over the situation but as a model you really have to give it up, to let go and do things you don’t normally do, to follow the scenarios you’re offered. You have to have deep trust in people you work with and follow their instincts. I find it fascinating! Being a photographer helped a lot because I understand what I need to do as a model. I sometimes catch myself thinking on set as both model and photographer.

In addition to modeling and photography you also DJ. How do you find balance in your life?

It just all happens and I enjoy living my life the way I do now. Maybe I just love a fast ride.

What do you consider your greatest achievement thus far?

Being able to combine my personal and professional life without giving up anything.

How do you define success?

Success is very relative term. Happiness and love is success to me.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I can easily get into trouble like losing myself somewhere, falling down on my way or any other thing like that which leads me to a big adventure after. Once, I broke my finger doing a handstand right before I went to Paris so I had to go to all of the model agencies with a cast up to my elbow. That happened when I signed my first contract as a model.

What are your plans for the future?

I like women who, at any age, remain true to themselves and know how to be beautiful at every stage of their lives. I hope that in 20 years I will be the best version of myself, wiser and more knowledgeable, but also remain the same Cate as I am now – with camera in my hands, traveling around the world and always open to new experiences.

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Posted on February 3, 2016 by theculturalomnivore in Female Models

How Megan Puleri Went From The Mall To The Victoria’s Secret Runway

Megan Puleri’s ascension to the ranks of Victoria’s Secret is the stuff dreams are made of. From a local mall in her hometown of Columbus, Ohio to the Victoria’s Secret fashion show watched by millions, Megan Puleri’s future is bright. I spoke with her about how it felt being chosen for Victoria’s Secret and what advice veteran model Candice Swanepoel gave her.

Tell us about how you were discovered.

As a teen everyone always commented on my long legs and how I’d be perfect for runway modeling. When I was 14, a neighbor who worked at a local boutique suggested to the owner that she should use me in her stores annual charity runway show. We met, she agreed, and I walked in her show that year and the following three years. After walking in my first show, I signed with a local agency in my hometown of Columbus, Ohio. When I was 16, my parents were at the Easton Shopping Mall in Columbus and my mom recognized Ed Razek, the chief marketing officer of Victoria’s Secret parent company L Brands, who was shopping as well. They approached him for his advice on modeling. He made it very clear that modeling is a challenging career choice and he would discourage his own daughter (if he had one) with similar aspirations. He didn’t like to say no to moms who showed him their daughter’s photographs, but had done so thousands of times. In fact, he never said yes to any. However, upon seeing photographs of me, he said he was impressed and felt I had what it took to go to New York and that he would recommend a meeting be arranged with the top four agencies in New York. Additionally, he wanted to meet me. My parents were blown away and excited! My mom, knowing what an honor this was, waited 17 months to set up that meeting. She wanted me to grow and become a more seasoned model prior to the introduction. Coincidentally, when the time felt right to meet him, I won a local modeling contest where New York Model Management would fly me to New York to possibly sign me. I was so grateful, but before accepting the offer, I wanted to meet with Ed Razek. My parents and I met with him that week. He said upon seeing me walk around the corner he truly felt that I had a chance in New York and upon careful consideration he decided to send me to the biggest and the best agency IMG. I passed my New York Model Management prize to the runner-up. My parents and I promptly met with IMG. They agreed with Ed and they wanted to sign me. I signed with them when I was 17. I turned 18 in May, 2015 and graduated from high school the next month and moved to New York in July.

How did you feel when you landed a coveted spot in the Victoria’s Secret runway show?

I felt so many things. So many emotions. I felt like one of my biggest dreams was coming true, like all of my hard work was paying off. I seriously dreamed about this moment, so many times, just to wake up to my reality. To find out that it was actually happening was insane.

What advice or guidance did you receive before walking in the show?

I received advice and guidance from one of my biggest role models, Candice Swanepoel. Her and I use the same trainer and one day I saw her at the gym and decided to talk to her. She told me her first show was by far her favorite show and to enjoy it because there is nothing like it.

Who’s career do you admire and why?

I admire so many people’s careers. I think that’s why I struggle a bit because I want to do so many different things and follow in so many different people’s footsteps, but I would say I admire Karlie Kloss’s career the most.

What do you hope to get out of your career?

I hope I get to build a platform to then spread the word about causes that I really care for. I want people to listen. I want people to care. I want to change the way people think as much as I can.

If you weren’t modeling what would you be doing?

I would be a photographer first and foremost. I’m not sure if I would do fashion photography or film but I would have a camera in my hand. I hope to build my portfolio as I model and continue to do that once I retire from modeling. I also have considered being an art teacher. I love kids and creativity, so mixing them both together would be ideal. I was touched by my middle school art teacher, she and I still visit and talk. I want to make a positive impact on children like she did for me. It was so important for me to have that relationship while I was growing up.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I think people would be surprised to learn that I am an old soul. I’m 18 years old and recently have been living a life full of first impressions. I feel like I come off a lot of different ways to people and very few people really know me. When people who really know me tell me that I am an ‘old soul’ it makes me feel understood.

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Posted on January 11, 2016 by theculturalomnivore in Female Models