Night In Gotham
Photographer: Rashawn Sprinkle
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
Jordan: Feeling trapped is a horrible feeling. I’ve felt trapped in abusive relationships and in what time revealed to be bad decisions. Thus leading me to feeling trapped in my thoughts and the consequences, but on my loneliest day I’ve always had a creative outlet. Sitting in my room and painting or constructing an idea from start to end makes me feel powerful. I’d say these bad things have shaped me to be more authentic and truthful with myself. This allows me to be curious, expressive, and show up as myself even if it looks weird. That always leads to something raw.
Rashawn: Rejection and being overlooked have profoundly influenced my life. In both daily interactions and artistic endeavors, my vision often faced dismissal unless it served others. This experience has driven me to embrace unconventional thinking, ultimately enhancing my creative expression, self confidence, and pushing boundaries to achieve extraordinary outcomes.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
Jordan: This project! Rashawn and I met at our friend’s 4th of July party this summer! I had seen his work on Instagram and asked if he wanted to collaborate on a project. He sent me a mood board and from that I sent the final concept for the outfit. From there we met in SOHO and walked around until we found something that spoke to us. I love a challenge and questioned my upper body strength for some of these images! Overall, Rawshawn’s eye end editing led us to the final project!
Rashawn: In my hometown of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, I organized a model studio day that brought together local talent and creativity. One specific shoot between two models was intended to be a visual project, showcasing their unique styles and personalities. However, due to unforeseen setbacks and budget constraints, we had to pivot and transform our vision into a written book. This book captures the essence of our original concept. We embraced this change wholeheartedly, and now the book is being adapted into a visual project by a major production company, which is what we intended. For me and my company RÆMODELS, rejection often leads to new opportunities, reminding us that flexibility and resilience can yield unexpected and rewarding results.
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?
Jordan: I’m currently working on an art exhibition. This challenges my creative boundaries because it’s hard to manage yourself for projects. Staying on track of your painting schedule, critiques to pieces, venue scouting, and promotion. I also have a hard time staying focused on one thing, and start working on four different things instead! It's also hard sometimes to find motivation to finish things, and I wonder if this is something other people can relate to?
Rashawn: A challenging project arose during my Valentine’s Day promo shoot when I had a car accident, being hit and forced to drive over a cliff. My camera was damaged, but I was unharmed. Undeterred, I used a new iPhone with an amazing camera for the shoot, resulting in stunning photos. The vibrant colors and sharp details captured the essence of love and heartbreak beautifully. Later, I received a professional DSLR after running my business with an iPhone camera. This experience taught me resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. I learned to embrace change and think creatively, transforming obstacles into opportunities. Each photo became a testament to my journey, reflecting not just love but also strength found in overcoming adversity.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
Jordan: A lot of people aren’t comfortable with failing or being a beginner. A lot of people aren’t comfortable going after their dreams alone. Something that is meant for you might not be meant for the people around you, and it will stifle your growth and opportunities. A lot of people aren’t comfortable being themselves. I believe I’m built for a creative life. I’d spend hours in line to be in a fashion show and seen by agencies. I’ll stay up for three days perfecting a painting. I’m patient when it comes to waiting for my blessings, but I’m actively working everyday to become better so when my time comes I’m ready with years of experience, knowledge, and wisdom.
Rashawn: My ability to maximize limited resources distinguishes my work from others in significant ways. Constraints inspire me to innovate and fully utilize available materials, pushing me to think creatively. While we all draw inspiration from fellow creatives, I prioritize unique execution in every endeavor. I often consider how RÆMODELS would approach a project. My strong grasp of photography and modeling, coupled with my creative problem-solving and leadership skills, enhanced my passion for continuous learning and growth in my projects. I believe that each challenge presents an opportunity to refine my skills and expand my artistic vision, ultimately leading to more impactful work.
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?
Jordan: I’m still planning goals for this upcoming year, but definitely working on an art show, more photoshoots, and more fashion shows! I’d love to work with clothing brands and do more product shoots. I love to sing so hopefully something relating to music.
Rashawn: RÆMODELS is driven by personal and team goals. A key milestone is our past photoshoot, which will transform into a book and then an expansive visual project. We are eager to explore new collaborations and innovative ideas, inviting our supporters and community to join us. We aim to inspire and connect through our shared passions and visions.
-
Wardrobe Stylist/Model/Makeup Artist: Jordan Blair
Photographer: Rashawn Sprinkle
Modeling Agency: RÆMODELSLLC
-
Bra: Akira
Leotard: Shein
Shoe: Justfab
Makeup:
Fenty Contour Espresso, Fenty Highlight, & Fenty Pink lip gloss mixed
Lip gloss: Haus labs
Foundation: L’oreal
Concealer: Sephora
Hair: Upretty Hair