BTB

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Martina Boaretto

London, 15 May 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I'm a bit of a mess but I have some good principles, I think. I think almost everything is possible so I’m in a lot of different places at the same time. I’m also in continuous transformation so it’s kind of hard to answer. I’m the only one who can sit for a drink and a chat with all the expressions of myself, we are so many we started a business.

 

Who would you confine with?

I would confine in a farm away from the city with a team of like-minded people, and maybe never leave. Isolation is such a personal journey anyway. We (or at least I) are not very used to stay still and own our time as we do, now and even before. Using this time to actively work on ourselves or on anything else; it’s just so interesting to observe ourselves living with what we have, where we are and with the people we have around... with not much option to escape. You can learn and understand a lot of things about yourself. 

What's your work-from-home style?

I’m really enjoying taking care of the vegetables I planted; I’m treating them like babies. Then I’m cooking a lot; I had literary never baked a cake before and now here I am making coconut cookies and vegan lasagna. I decided I would watch all the classic old movies I never took enough time to watch and I’m painting and making things. I’m enjoying having enough time to do all of these things whenever I feel like doing them. The only thing I really try to control is how and when I keep myself informed on things in the world; I give myself a certain topic I want to research about rather than getting lost in the stream of news.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

Until a few years ago I was sure I could have lived forever without money. I was a bit wild and it was fun for a bit!

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I'll go home to see my family first. They are near Venice and I’ve been worried about them. Things are going a bit better there now. That's the first place where I would go once I can travel. And then I would go to the sea.

 

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Ok, Zoom parties are a mission... but other than having Zoom parties with my friends or family, it would be fun to say hi to random people around the world and share opinions and experiences of this quarantine.

Martina is represented by Viva Model Management

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Maikls Mihelsons

Riga, 28 April 2020


Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

My name is Maikls, but that’s not all… Safe to say that I am a human. Still breathing and doing #stayhome. I'm a son, brother, friend and a boyfriend.

My profession as a model could be put in different words, but I could say that in a way it is a set of performance. In a way similar to acting… Different day, different setup; runway, clothes, magazines, photo shoots, designers, castings, hair, make-up, etc.  Since all this has stopped, I try to stay home as much as I can.

Who would you confine with?

In a perfect world I would be with my family in a country house by the sea.

 

What's your work-from-home style?

Washing and sanitizing hands ;) Well there is not much going on anyways. So I spend some time reading books, getting some fresh air, and roller-skating.

 Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I used to play basketball for a long time. I started when I was about 6 years old and played all through high school. I was born into an athletic family: my dad was a professional volleyball player.

Fun fact: me and my sister, when we were little, we used to play dress-up and act like male and female models. Actually not my idea, but my sisters.

 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

First thing first… I would go out for dinner or hang out with my closest friends. My sister has been living abroad and it would be nice to see her and my little niece. To get back into traveling for modeling wouldn’t be bad either. 

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Kobe Bryant. RIP. I would love to Skype with him. He had an amazing work ethic, skills and a beautiful family. I would want to know the key to his success and how he balanced professional sports with family life. 

And other legends like Michael Jordon & Magic Johnson.

Maikls is represented by The Bro Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Luka Issac

Marseille, 24 April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I’m from Marseille, south of France. I’m a musician signed with KMA and I curate Events. I work on different Pop-ups every year which include installations / music curation, interactive environment. My main activity during quarantine is Music and I’m working on some pop project but also way more experimental pieces that really evolve everyday depending on my mood.

 

Who would you confine with?

My girlfriend Anastazia Bobis! She’s a great painter!

What's your work-from-home style?

Making Music everyday, I started drawing again, and a bit of meditating to work on myself more than trying to make actual meaningful art.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I’m a secret super talented Italian chef since I make pasta everyday in quarantine.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

Italy! Or LA! I miss my friends, my car, etc.

 

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Alan Vega, Martin Rev, Marc Almond & Dave Ball.

Luka is represented by Kate Moss Agency

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Serigne Lam

New York, 26 April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I’m Serigne Lam from Senegal, in the city named Dakar. I live in New York for 3 years now, I’m single with no child… for now. I’m a male fashion model. This really is a job that helps me to discover some city or country’s culture and traditions. That’s something I wouldn’t have had the chance to discover if I wasn’t a model.

 

Who would you confine with?

My family.

 What's your work-from-home style?

Taking my online classes.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I’m a person that is capable of making people laugh and get unstressed. I love playing soccer on my free time.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I would love to go back to my home country for vacation.

 

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

My friends and family.

Serigne is represented by Independent Model Management

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Conlan Munari

Bendigo, 24 April 2020


Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I’m Coni. I live in Bendigo some of the time, next to a park. I’m a pretty good person; I’m interested in good and I like to think about what is good. It’s almost to say nothing, but I like people ❤ I’m a bit disagreeable, a bit lazy. I’m a model for a job only. I don’t know what to say, it’s a lifestyle. You are so free, and also a commodity. I like to move some, but right now I am playing a lot of chess & learning Farsi. I also love reading in the shower. It’s the staple of my identity. 

Who would you confine with?

I would confine with my family. It’s been many months without seeing them + that’s where I am now.

 

What's your work-from-home style?

I’ve worn one thing for 4 weeks. I still wear a hat every day.

 Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I worked in disability support & law before modeling. I have a resting sad face. But I’m not sad. Don’t ask me why I’m upset, I'm just thinking.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I’m scared to leave. Maybe.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Magnus Carlsen to teach me chess. Ali Khamenei to teach me Farsi. And Greta Thunberg together with him (Ali Khamenei) in a Zoom would be funny.

Conlan is represented by Uno Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Zoe Takala

Sydney, 16 April 2020


Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

Honestly, I’m just a young person still figuring out all the things I want to do with my life. I’m mainly at university studying law and philosophy, but have other interests outside of this. I’m also very passionate about gastronomy, fragrance, design and architecture. Modeling is a newer addition to my life; I enjoy the theatrical aspect of it and getting to experience part of the creative process. There are lots of parts to the job that you wouldn’t realize unless you’ve done it.

 

Who would you confine with?

I’m confined with one of my best friends, Indra, in our apartment by the beach. We’ve been cooking up a storm. I wouldn’t have it any other way. 

What's your work-from-home style?

My work-from-home style is all over the place. I’ll go back and forth between different tasks, University work, playing around in the kitchen. I’m trying to learn Illustrator to keep myself busy also.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I try and regularly learn new facts about different places, experiences and concepts, and spend a few hours a week doing this in a deep dive at random. I don’t read many books as my attention span is pretty poor, but this helps me learn and I find it interesting. I don’t know if this is resume worthy but I still find it useful!

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

Skiing. I haven’t been in over a year and I love it. I’m hoping the Australian snow season will still be up and running later this year. I also miss New York, and my Dad, stepmom and sister who live there.

 

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

 I have to confess I’m not a big fan of FaceTime etc. I think it’s a great tool, but I just don’t really enjoy talking on the phone. In saying that, if I had too it would be a call with Amal Clooney, as she works in one of the areas of law that interests me.

Zoe is represented by The Identity

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Tamsir Thiam

Brescia, 14 April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I’m a chill guy, always relaxed. I’m very open minded and always ready to learn from what is around me. That’s probably the reason why I don’t talk too much. I’m a model and that gave me the opportunity to travel the world, meet a lot of people, cultures and places and it really helped me to grow a lot. It’s not just a job like I thought when I just started, it’s more like a lifestyle. 

Who would you confine with?

My family. I’m appreciating this time because I wasn’t able to spend this much time with them before.

 

What's your work-from-home style?

It’s getting hot so sometimes I just wear pants. In the evening I’ll throw on a T-shirt.

 Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I grew up playing basketball but as we can’t go play outside I play 2K now.

 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I’ll probably go see some of my friends.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

All my friends!

Tamsir is represented by Independent Model Management

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Doeke Smulders

The Hague, 9th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I'm Doeke, I’m trying to do my exams this year but due to corona it's all a bit complicated, and besides my school I’m spending the rest of my time playing sports and hanging out with friends.

 

Who would you confine with?

The perfect quarantine confinement would be with a few of my friends in a house with a big garden so we can sit in the sun all day long. 

What's your work-from-home style?

My work-from-home style is sitting in the sun with school work and study till I'm exhausted.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I love playing hockey or soccer. Also I've played guitar since I was about 7, I've worked in a carwash for a while but found out pretty soon that it wasn't a job for me.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

We have a tradition in The Hague to go to Chersonissos (Crete) when the exams are finished, which is always an amazing trip. So when we can travel again I'd love to go there with my friends.

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Well I wouldn't mind skyping with Scarlett Johansson ;-p

Doeke is represented by KNOWN Model Management

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Serge Sergeev

Riga, 18th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

My name is Serge. I’m studying to be a film director and work as a model. For now my job has stopped, but the studying process is happening online. I have a lot of homework to do, so my quarantine time is not so boring.

 

Who would you confine with?

My family and me, and also me …well… did I mention me? ;D

 What's your work-from-home style?

Basically my work-from-home style is only study, but today I got an unexpected and special shooting. A photographer was making pictures through Skype. I’m really wondering what the result will look like.

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

Right now my hobbies are photography, playing the piano, working out and running, drawing and reading, play billiard and of course study.  (Sometimes I drive my car very fast at night, but that’s a secret). 

My study program in university is film direction, so I’m trying to watch as many movies as I can about the film industry. I’m also interested in acting and I consider myself as a communicative, funny and interesting person, so I think I can become a good actor.

I played billiard professionally for more than 10 tears (exactly: snooker). My father is my coach; he is working and coaching the best snooker players in the whole world. 

I try to read as much as I can since reading develops our brain and soul. Each day I read something new about psychology and write in my notebook what is important to me.

I’ve always loved photography; my granddad used to be a professional photographer. When I go out taking new pictures I do it only on my film camera; I don’t know the model’s name exactly, but I know it’s pretty old and it’s a Nikkormat. It’s probably around 30 years old, but it still works perfectly.

I draw when I’ve got inspiration and time, but right now I spend more time on study and other hobbies.

I’ve always loved working out and running. Sometimes it’s hard, but I know what I want to achieve and I motivate myself.

I used to play piano when I was 10 years old, but after 2-3 years of studying I quit. Now if I want I learn how to play some music on the piano by myself.

Basically right now during quarantine I study and do my hobbies after, if I still have energy))). 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

The first place I would like to go on holidays to after quarantine is Mallorca. I’ve been there once during a modeling job and now I would like to stay there a bit longer, with some friends.

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

I really like actors and all art people. My favorite actors are Will Smith , Leonardo DiCaprio, Keanu Reeves , Heath Ledger , Joaquin Phoenix , Anthony Hopkins , Rachel Weisz , Keira Knightley, … I could continue…

Serge is represented by The Bro Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Jeenu Mahadevan

Oslo, 15th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I'm Jeenu, a 21 year old guy from Norway, but ethnically Tamil (Sri Lanka). I work as a model. I'm lucky enough to have very creative people choose me to present their clothes or star in their projects.

 

Who would you confine with?

My closest friends for sure, I confide in them all the time!

 

What's your work-from-home style?

There's no such thing unfortunately lol. My style is as non-existent at home as it is everywhere else.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I have a weird, but healthy obsession with armadillos :)

 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I just want to gather some friends and watch a movie in my basement. Used to do it at least once a week before all of this craziness started.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Probably just my friends, they're the people I'm the most comfortable with.(and maybe an armadillo if that can be arranged).

Jeenu is represented by Uno Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Unia Pakhomova

New York, 9th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I’m a girl from Russia. I love raccoons and biology books. I’m a model and I love to travel all around the world and meet with talented people who inspire me a lot. One day I wanna have a farm with a lot of goats and dogs, and maybe even a horse to run around in the forest.

 Who would you confine with?

Now I’m at home with my boyfriend and I’m very happy to have him. We support each other and it’s just nice to be home with him. But of course I wish I could see my family and friends.

 

What's your work-from-home style?

One of my first experiences from working at home was with you guys. Just wearing my pajamas or casual clothes, run around the apartment with my phone, dance and chill on FaceTime with Allan. 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I don’t really have crazy skills. I’m now spending most of my time drawing. I paint a lot with oil and acrylic colors. I can do it for hours and get lost in time. 

Also, I love the Hercules cartoon: every time I’m watching it I dance to every song, ahah.

 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I wanna go for a BBQ with all my friends, play basketball and dance. For travel I choose Costa Rica: I just wanna go there to spend every day in the sea and chill with sloths.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Now since I can’t leave house and see my friends I’m spending a lot of time on the Houseparty app and FaceTime. I miss my friends a lot, so now my dream is to see them in person and give them a big hug.

Unia is represented by Uno Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Valentin Humbroich

Hamburg, 12 April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

My name is Valentin Humbroich, I’m 21 years old and I’m from Hamburg, Germany.  I started modeling two years ago and I’m doing it as a full time job since I left school one year ago. For me modeling is not just about being ‘pretty’ but rather about getting into a different role for every shoot. Modeling has a lot of different kind of aspects and every set has its unique look and vibe that you have to adopt. Every shooting is a project by its own and a lot of different kind of people from all around the world come together and create something. 

Who would you confine with?

My brother Laszlo. He is one year younger then me and if I wouldn’t have him during these times I would’ve probably already gone crazy.

 What's your work-from-home style?

As a model there is not a lot of work which you can do from home. I had one online shooting and I’m doing some exercises do keep me fit.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

Before I started modeling I worked at an ice cream store and I did an exchange year to Brazil for one year.

 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I would love to go to New York again like I did last summer.

 

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

One of my dead grand parents.

Valentin is represented by IMG

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Audi Bizar

Buffalo, 13th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

My profession, in my definition, would be a creator. I create garments, drawings, songs, and most knowingly, help photographers and brands create images through the importance of looks, features, and clothing otherwise known as a model. So to sum it up, my profession is a creator... with many vast mediums.

Who would you confine with?

In this time if I had to confine with anybody, it would be my brother, Sav. That’s it. The less heads the better when it comes to isolation. The person also needs to be very well balanced with various characters, if not I will get annoyed or bored with them, which is the worst. 

What's your work-from-home style?

My work-from-home style consists of essentials but varies throughout the day. Here in Buffalo, NY, it gets very cold in the early morning and at nights but these past weeks it has been warm in the afternoon. If I’m just lying around the house I usually like to wear my Patagonia hiking pants with my Clark desert treks. During later nights I will have a baggy hoodie on with a beanie or facemask to stay warm. I’ve also been wearing lots of suits and vests around the house. It feels good to get dressed for no reason. Oh yeah, don’t forget the long johns!!

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

A new hobby that I have been really enjoying lately is making necklaces and bracelets out of everyday, around the house materials. It’s a nice challenge and it tests functionality and creativity. Also I want to learn how to pickle cucumbers to make homemade pickles, so I can mass distribute bizar pickles.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

The first place I want to go when it’s safe enough to travel is Paris. I’m a little sick of NY so Europe sounds nice. Also maybe somewhere in California where I can hike.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Nobody is in my fantasy Zoom party. In all honesty I can’t stand people calling me on FaceTime, especially if it’s multiple people. But if I did, it would just be with all the homies from my hometown.

Audi is represented by Success Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Joel Stephen Frampton

London, 7th April 2020


Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I am a bird, I fly, unprepared, my wings unclipped. I travel far and wide, we click, we connect and the journey continues. I embrace the unknown, the mystery.

 Who would you confine with?

A pro ping-pong player would be useful on occasion. Failing that, and bearing in mind social distancing, I'll stick with the cat.

 What's your work-from-home style?

Work at home feels quite wonderful with the benefits of a sun-facing terrace. Job duties include… refilling my coffee and repositioning the deckchair from time to time.

 Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

Music makes me happy, I play a number of instruments (by ear). I DJ'd for a number of years too. It's important to feel music.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I'm looking forward to returning to Beautiful Italy and my Home in Milano. I'll give my dear buddies, Gordon and George a call and we'll spend a good few hours on the Tennis Courts, in the Spring Sunshine.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

That would've been john Lennon.. imagine…


Joel is represented by New Madison Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting


#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Krow

Vancouver, 9th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I'm Krow, a transgender male model from Vancouver, Canada. I started modeling at 12 years old as a female but stopped at 18, then did my transition. My job is modeling for various brands and magazines but through the modeling I can bring representation and awareness of the trans community to the everyday person.

 

Who would you confine with?

Right now I'm spending quarantine with my mom but I would love to spend it with my best friend too. It would be super fun and I'd get a lot more art finished. 

What's your work-from-home style?

I don't really have a work-from-home style since my two current jobs are modeling and extra acting. These jobs require me to be in person with a team so after lockdown all my work stopped. Luckily though there are projects like this one that help with exposure and keep the industry running even during this time.

 

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I like to do nature photography and also capture sunsets/sunrises but I never post my photos and rarely share them which is kind of silly. Maybe one day I'll show them, haha.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

I would love to go back to Japan after quarantine is over because I love the culture and the people. It's my favorite place in the world but I've only been twice. I hope to live near Kyoto one day.

 

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

My fantasy Zoom party people would probably be Kim Jaejoong and Miyavi. Both are musicians who really inspire me and they both seem like wonderful and kind people.

Krow is represented by New Madison Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Cheikh Kébé

Dakar, 9th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I am a young fashion passionate. I’ve studied fashion design and pattern making in Paris. I also have an obsession with interior design, I did one year of Art and Architecture before studying Fashion. I define myself as an Artist; I spend my time creating contents in various fields. I make clothes mostly, but I love painting or helping my interior designer friends in their projects or mock-ups. 

Who would you confine with?

I would definitely confine with my best friends. We would spend time laughing and dancing, it would be “vacays” more than anything else. Today I am confined with my family and I am still happy with it.

 

What's your work-from-home style?

It’s quite warm in Senegal, it’s always summer here, so my work-from-home style is shorts or sweat pants and a tank top or T-shirt.

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

A fun fact about me: I was born with 12 fingers. I had surgeries to take the 2 extras off. I always felt quite shy about it. But it’s something that makes me special at some point.

 

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

South of France, Marseille or Cannes; I just love it there. I am pretty sure I will go with my best friends as soon as it’s safe again to travel.

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Would be fun being in a Zoom Party with my friends and Rihanna. We would laugh so much.

Cheikh is represented by Uno Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Paul Manniez

Paris, 9th April 2020


Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

My name is Paul Manniez, I’m 22 years old, born and raised in France. I’m a model and actor. It’s really interesting in a way because both of those jobs allow me to give life by wearing clothes or walking with them, I can add a part of me to it and play with that “new me”. By being in a character, it will be the same process but obviously less physical and more intellectual.

 

Who would you confine with?

I would be with my mom and brother in the south of France. I was actually supposed to go there before this quarantine, but I didn’t want to take any risk by being sick without symptoms (healthy carrier?) and bring it to them.

What's your work-from-home style?

I’m taking this quarantine as a break. Back with myself and my thoughts, doing sports at home, reading books, watching movies that I didn’t have time to watch before, playing video games with friends and practicing Sophrology with my mom! It helps me also to think about my future, what I want to do and how can I achieve those goals.

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I actually did a tutorial video on YouTube when I was 14, about how to do beatbox. I became famous at school for being “the beatboxer”. It was a funny time.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

Might be cheesy, but I would say Biscarrosse, where my mom and brother are! It’s really peaceful, lots of nature, lakes and there is the sea!

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

I would love to do a FaceTime with Fabrice Luchini and talk about what’s going on and know his thoughts!!

Paul is represented by Elite

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Lucas El Bali

Paris, 7th April 2020

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Lucas El Bali_by_AllanHamitouche_bis7.jpg

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I’m an energetic and lucky boy who grew up nicely in the east of France between lakes and mountains. For half a year now I see myself as an explorer, discovering new places new countries but also discovering the fashion world, I see my job as an opportunity to improve who I am and what makes me I try to be involved to everything I do in the same way.

 

Who would you confine with?

I would totally confine with ten of my friends in a big manor in the south of France, but sadly I’m confined with my girl with whom I hate spending time with.

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Lucas El Bali_by_AllanHamitouche_bis9.jpg

What's your work-from-home style?

Actually I do not have a work-from-home style because I haven’t got work, but I spend my days by doing sport, listening to music and meditation.

 Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

One of my greatest secret skills is based on luck I call it "tax free". In every place I go to party someone would give something to me. It can be food, alcohol, a necklace or kiss, a cap or even the entrance ticket.

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Lucas El Bali_by_AllanHamitouche_bis8.jpg

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

After all this situation is over I would go straight to my hometown and set my hammock near the lake to enjoy the sun and a lil barbecue with my mom and friends. 

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Lucas El Bali_by_AllanHamitouche_bis10.jpg

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

In my Zoom fantasy FaceTime party I would get @allan.lab on a romantique "tête-à-tête ».

Lucas is represented by New Madison Models

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Peter Dupont

London, 10th April 2020

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Peter Dupont_by_Ben_Allen_bis.jpg

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I was born in Copenhagen and still have a strong connection to that place and lifestyle. I have always been involved in different social or activism projects, from refugee rights to climate politics. I’m actively doing boxing, running, biking, climbing and hiking. I have to be outside and like places that are remote and difficult to get to. I love to travel, especially with my girlfriend, Breanna. I like to create projects with good friends and people around me who inspire me. I am currently working on some projects where that is at the core.

 

Who would you confine with?

Breanna Box, my girlfriend. We have a lot of fun! We are good at giving each other space and helping one another with different projects we have going on.

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Peter Dupont_by_Ben_Allen_bis2.jpg

What's your work-from-home style?

I usually start answering emails when I wake up and whilst having breakfast. Then I like to meditate or do something active and read. Lately I have been taking a lot of pictures. It’s fun to learn more on what it’s like to be on the other end of the lens.

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Peter Dupont_by_Ben_Allen_bis3.jpg

Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

I used to be a bouncer. I worked with security in a lot of different clubs and concert places in Copenhagen. I did it with a really good group of people and mostly at really nice places and like these pop-up techno party events. 

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Peter Dupont_by_Ben_Allen_bis4.jpg

What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

A quick layover in Copenhagen to see my friends and family and then to Japan with Breanna. 

BTB_FACES_StaySafeAtHome_Peter Dupont_by_Ben_Allen_bis5.jpg

Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

I’m not that good at Zoom or FaceTime. In general I’m not that good on the phone. But if I could choose some people to talk with about stuff that interests me right now it would probably be the following: Wassily Kandinsky, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Josef Albers. I would speak to them about the history of colors and Bauhaus. Wong Kar-Wai to chat film and more colors. William Blake for disturbance and art. Awa Kenzo talking about different aspects of training and zen archery. Patti Smith to talk music and listen to her speak about New York in a period I wish I had seen. Massimo Osti for design and functionality.

Peter is represented by IMG

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

#StaySafeAtHomeWith ... Ben Allen

London, 8th April 2020

Who are you (the long answer, no cheating by just giving your name!) and what is your profession (as in, how do you define it, rather than just the job title it has)?

I am a 24 year old from South East London. Half American, Quarter English, Quarter Australian. I’m a model of almost 10 years (yikes) and actor in training. I love my job, I’m always thankful for the places it has taken me, the wonderful friends/girlfriend of 4 years I have and the opportunities to work with people I consider genius.

Who would you confine with?

My girlfriend Lexi. We are split to be closer to our families, so she is back in America and I’m in London. We are used to distance and time apart through our work, but not having an end date in lockdown restrictions and not really knowing how long it will be until it’s safe and responsible to travel again is tough, but it is a small hardship compared to what many are experiencing now. My heart goes out to all those nurses and doctors working so diligently, saving lives whilst risking their own, to return home at the end of these unimaginable days and not be able to touch your partner or children. I can’t even imagine what they are going through.

 What's your work-from-home style?

I’m fortunate to have a house that backs on to a small private wood with a tennis court - so I’ve been playing tennis everyday with my friend Kit who has moved in for lockdown. Begin the day with early tennis, once done we get some music on (radiooooo.com and NTS have really kept me sane the past few weeks), get breakfast going and start the day. If I have lines to learn for acting classes I’ll read through them in the garden, if not I may read a book, do some gardening. Whatever allows me to savor the beautiful springtime we’ve been blessed with in London this year. It’s been great having a friend move in for this period, we’ve cooked everyday. Watched some fantastic movies. I’m now obsessed with the Safdie Brothers. I’ve gone on many walks with my mum, which has been special. Time can move so fast, juggling all the elements of the modern lives we lead. Having moved out of my mums house 2 years ago and spending time in Denver with Lexi or generally on the road with work - our moments together, naturally, have become invaluable. So to have had all this time together the past few weeks has been so precious to me. I imagine many of us post-lockdown will reevaluate what elements of our lives, truly, mean the most to us. I definitely will be. I’ve been writing some of these thoughts every night before bed to look back upon, when the routines of old and the craziness that comes with that, ensues again.

 Tell us something about yourself that isn't on your resume (a secret skill, a hobby, a previous job or fun fact about you).

Well currently, I’m doing acting lessons in London (even during the lockdown we have classes on Zoom!) and for the past few months, I have been working towards launching a knitwear line. A fun fact about me - due to terrible 16 year judgment of the Caribbean tide patterns, I found myself drifting out to the Atlantic Ocean on a paddleboard. Some 20 minutes later, to my life-continuing relief, I spot a figure on the horizon coming to my rescue - it was Bryan Adams, Mr Summer of ’69 himself. I laid flat on my board, exhausted and exasperated, as he paddled the two of us back to shore and to the safety of solid ground. That is how Bryan Adams saved my life. You can’t make this shit up.

 What's the first place you'd want to go when it's safe again to travel and go out?

My favorite restaurant and my favorite pub.

 Who is in your fantasy Zoom party (Skype or FaceTime)?

Dave Chappelle, Salvador Dali, Anthony Bourdain, Gucci Mane, Karl Marx.

Ben is represented by Select Model London

interviewed by Lily Templeton

&

captured by Allan Hamitouche

…

Production by Michaël Marson

Casting director William Lhoest at WL Casting

TBT_BTB_ARchive

Access to our exclusive interviews and features, selected weekly by the BTB team

TBT
©Nouaunu_Behind the Blinds_2022_05_22_4886.jpg
NO LIMITS
Pomme by Jan Philipzen_BTB13_14.jpg
CONSOLING MELODY
OP17084_AP_CHANEL_4149_13_CMYK.jpg
THE COLOR MAGICIAN
IH_BTB_TBT6.jpg
PLEASURES OF PARADOX
BTB6_FATAL_SS18_BERLUTI_11.jpg
ROLE-BREAKING BEAUTY
Behind The Blinds Issue 5 _ Austin Augie BTB_2.jpg
BMX REVOLUTIONS

// LATEST // 

Featured
Alice Rawsthorn_Prada Frames 2025_day1_Digital Infrastructures_8.jpg
PRADA FRAMES X SALONE DEL MOBILE 2025
DSC02358.jpg
LUDOVIC DE SAINT SERNIN BACKSTAGE FW25
Featured
ONLINE_layout2.jpg
WILD KID BLUES
ONLINE_layout2.jpg
THE NAKED TRUTH
Featured
ONLINE_layout2.jpg
RADIOUSLY CHANEL
Thierry Gillier @Fred Meylan copie.jpg
AS THE PLANETS REALIGN