Life In The 90s
Photographer: Daijohn Mclaurin
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
lt all started at First Presbyterian Church of Irvington New Jersey, when I was about 14 years old. My cousin Joanitta, a member of the church, directed the fashion show in which I volunteered to be apart of. It was my first experience into the fashion/modeling world. I felt like a superstar on the runway. This kind of exposure helped me realize I how serious I wanted to be about my role in the fashion industry.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
I once took part in a collaboration that represented brotherhood with my friend Jauhaur. This collaboration symbolized two black brothers coming together to form unity, self love, power, and respect. The sole purpose was to implement the importance of brotherhood in the world.
3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?
In 2023 I teamed up a photographer and a stylist to produce a specific vision for a project. This was a very different and humbling experience for me because I had to step out my comfort zone and allow myself to be directed and guided by another creative mind outside of mine. This allowed me to grow and learn as a model and the importance of collaboration with others.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
Being able to tap into my adolescent mind is what sets me apart from other creatives. Doing this gives me the ability to see the world in ways that people are close minded to. It helps me expands my creative idea when working on a project.
5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?
Some of my goals are to be published in some of the most prestigious fashion magazines like GQ & Vogue. Participating in Commercial Advertisements. Getting signed to IMG Models and more. The list of goals never end. I just want to continue to climb up in this industry as far as I can go.
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Model: Jeff Yiadom
Wardrobe Stylist/Creative Director: Asia Rivera
Photographer: Daijohn Mclaurin