What goes through your head when you are in front of the camera?
I guess it depends. The acting background really helps. Sometimes I put
myself in another place, I think of a scenario that would be happening or
a specific personality trait, other times I’m focused on a feeling, like the
camera isn’t there...trying to convey a message to the person behind it, a lot
of times I like to think, “yea, I’m a badass...because in real life, I’m not at all.”
(Laughs.)
Were you a fan of tattoos before modeling? How is body art a big part of the
alternative industry?
I have always loved tattoos. I remember seeing them as a kid and thinking,
“wow, that person is different.” I always found different beautiful. I am not
interested in conventional ideas of beauty. I think that tattoos and body
modification are a very large focus currently, it has definitely become a more
popular trend.
It’s funny how people sometimes will judge a book by its cover. Some
believers look down on those of us that have tattoos or have verses that say
tattoos are sinful. Have you had anyone come to you with anything like that
in response to your modeling with you being outspoken about your faith?
How did you handle the situation?
My grandmother is not a huge fan of tattoos, she’s my elder and I respect
that. I actually made sure they were covered when I was around her out
of respect. She knows now and loves me all the same. She adores my
magazine covers, but I still tend to cover up around her. I haven’t had anyone
come down on me for my religious views. Honestly, I don’t seem to face a lot
of negativity when it comes to them. In fact, it seems to be the opposite. I’ve
heard, “well, yours aren’t just like tattoos, they are art. It’s different…” I have
seen comments on the Internet where people would say, “she’d be great
without this or that, why would she get that tattoo?” I personally feel like negative people are just that. I am far too busy a person to let some bad vibes
slow me down. I treat everyone I can with respect. I am polite, I hold the door
for strangers - sometimes those little actions change a person’s outlook.
When did your interest in tattoos began? How long was it from then until you
got your first one?
My father was getting more tattooed when I was in high school. I had a lot
of older friends who were getting involved in the field. My dad promised me
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