Meet Olivia, of Vikiitcreates - a local AZ model with years of experience in modeling for print, runway, and creative styled fashion shoots! Olivia will be joining the AZPM family in a big way - she will be leading our model workshops in the months to come. She has expressed her interest in sharing her knowledge of the industry of fashion, print, and runway with the community so that we can all grow our skills stronger - together!
Olivia's journey beginning in 2018 while she was in college. Overtime she began to realize the remarkable growth and creativity that the creative community had to offer, which peaked her interest further. She attended our Floral affair event, which solidified her appreciation for our AZPM community.
Let's hear about Olivia's journey as a creative- as told by her own words.
Olivia's Journey
"From the age of 15, I embarked on an exciting journey in the modeling industry, signing with an agency that kick-started my professional career. Over the past eight years, I have had the privilege of modeling for a wide range of editorial, lifestyle, and runway shows. The work I had contributed so much to have been recognized internationally, with my work gracing the pages of more than 20 magazines. Notably, I am proud to have been featured as the front and back cover model for three of these publications. I am grateful for the opportunities that have come my way, including interviews where I have been able to showcase my talent. Modeling has been a lifelong passion for me, stemming from my childhood years. In addition to my professional pursuits, I find great joy in collaborating with talented photographers across Arizona to bring creative concepts to life. More recently, I have ventured into the realm of photography myself, and I am thrilled to share that I was published in a magazine this year as a photographer. Transforming a beloved passion into a fulfilling profession has been a dream come true for me. I feel incredibly fortunate to have turned my passion for modeling into a rich and diverse experience that continues to fuel my aspirations."
Q&A
Q: What are your favorite things to model/cosplay? (Certain photography styles, props, type of clothing, etc.)
A: I thoroughly enjoy expressing my creative vision when I engage in freelance modeling. It's during these moments that I find myself immersed in my own world, collaborating with photographers to bring various concepts to life. From Cyberpunk styles to candy art and 1920s themes, I explore a wide range of captivating ideas that go beyond the limitations of agency modeling. By delving into these artistic endeavors, I'm able to tap into my true potential. In addition to freelance work, I have a profound love for runway modeling. There's an unparalleled energy that comes with the live aspect of this particular form of modeling. There are no retakes, and it requires a tremendous amount of dedication, from attending casting calls to constant practice, leading up to the actual show. The entire process is incredibly rewarding. Stepping onto the stage and showcasing fascinating garments crafted by designers of diverse backgrounds has always been a joyous and distinct experience for me. Modeling on the runway allows me to merge my passion for fashion with the thrill of live performance. It's a unique opportunity to captivate an audience, and the gratification I feel at the end of each show is indescribable.
Q: Do you have a favorite photoshoot you've done? If so, tell us about it!
A: I have an immense love for every photoshoot and runway show that I have had the privilege of being a part of throughout my entire modeling career. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate on each project that comes my way. Among the many modeling concepts I have experienced, my favorites are undoubtedly the ones that exhibit the highest levels of creativity and originality. These concepts are the ones that truly make an impact, capturing attention through unique scenery, innovative makeup, and captivating outfits. Being able to contribute to such extraordinary projects brings me immense joy and fulfillment.
Q: Where do you draw inspiration from when modeling/cosplaying, planning photoshoots, planning outfits, etc?
A: I consider myself an artist at heart, and when I engage in collaborations with photographers, I relish the opportunity to infuse a sense of my artistic vision into the work, particularly when it blends with editorial-style concepts. Through my experience in agency modeling, I have cultivated a deep appreciation for the aesthetic quality of editorial photos. By combining my own creative vision with that of the photographer, we are able to create something truly distinctive and exceptional. I am grateful to share that my full-time occupation as an art director and multimedia designer has seamlessly intertwined with my modeling career, allowing me to bring a unique perspective and skill set to the table. This fusion of talents has enriched both my professional endeavors and my modeling pursuits.
Q: What tips do you have for new models and/or cosplayers?
A: I wholeheartedly believe that aspiring models and cosplayers should prioritize being true to themselves. Your work as a model or cosplayer is a reflection of your individuality, and that is something to embrace and take pride in. There is an irreplaceable value in being your own unique and authentic self, as it sets you apart from others in the industry and allows your personal style to shine through. In addition to staying true to yourself, conducting thorough research is crucial in the modeling and cosplay realms. These fields require a significant investment of time and effort. It's important to familiarize yourself with industry trends, understand the different aspects of the craft, and be aware of the expectations and standards within the community. By being well-informed, you can make informed decisions, develop your skills, and navigate the industry more effectively. Remember, modeling and cosplay are journeys that require continuous learning and growth. Embrace your individuality, put in the necessary effort, and never stop exploring and refining your craft.
Q: What types of challenges have you had to overcome in your time as a model/cosplayer, (past, present or future) and how did you overcome that situation (or how to you plan to)? (loss of inspiration, learning new skills, working with others, etc.)
A: Since my childhood, I have always been characterized as shy and introverted. As someone who was once hesitant to speak up, the experience of walking on a stage in front of thousands of people at the age of 15 was nothing short of mind-blowing for me. However, this transformative moment played a significant role in shaping me into the powerful and confident individual I am today. Stepping into the spotlight taught me the importance of embracing bravery when faced with great opportunities, no matter how nerve-wracking they may seem. It was through these experiences that I gained a newfound sense of self-assurance and learned to fully embrace and celebrate who I am. This journey has taught me that by confronting our fears head-on and pursuing our dreams, we can unlock our true potential. I wholeheartedly encourage everyone to confront their own fears and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination. It is through these bold steps that we truly grow and discover the immense strength and capabilities that lie within us. Embrace the journey, be courageous, and watch as your dreams unfold before you.
Q: Anything else you like to share with us?
A: In addition to my modeling career, I pursued a bachelor's degree in Digital Design and Animation, and I currently work full-time as an art director and multimedia designer. There was always a part of me that felt torn between my love for modeling and my passion for being an artist. However, I soon discovered that I didn't have to choose between the two. In fact, combining these two professions has been incredibly rewarding, as they both thrive off one another. The power of combining our diverse skills and talents should not be underestimated. In my case, my background in design has greatly contributed to the development of my personal brand. It has allowed me to create a cohesive and visually impactful representation of myself as a model. On the other hand, my experience in modeling has provided me with valuable insights and perspectives that I can apply to my design work. These two worlds have beautifully intertwined, enabling me to fully launch and propel my career forward. Embracing the synergy between different areas of expertise opens up endless possibilities for growth and innovation. By tapping into the strengths and unique attributes of each discipline, we can create something truly extraordinary. So, let us celebrate the power of combining our passions and skills, as it leads us on a path of boundless creativity and success.