Photographed By Ellinor Forje
Saturday, May 29, 2010
The Monies
Photographed By Ellinor Forje"My mother used to allow me take her jewellery apart, then put them back together in my own way.", said Gerda Monies.
The Girl With The Origami Earring
Photographed By: Isabel Nilsson
Make-Up: Karin Rydström
Model: Valentina
And here I was thinking that Rock-Paper-Scissors, is just a silly game they play. Valentina Wali, begs to differ.
YOU HAVE A VERY SUITABLE BRAND NAME, WHERE DOES IT COME FROM?
The choice of a brand name was very hard and I thought it would take forever until I realized that "Tamashaka" felt right. Something that may sound Japanese, but really means something like "Look!" in my native language.
WHEN DID YOU START DESIGNING JEWELLERY?
I've loved handicraft since I was child, it probably started in (primary) school with knitting, and Christmas cards. When craft disappeared (from the curriculum) somewhere during middle school, I continued with it as hobby.
In the early high school period, I worked more with jewellry made of glass beads and other similar materials. But, it was only a hobby then. Something that was a relaxing and therapeutic activity for me.
WHEN AND WHERE DID YOU BECOME INTERESTED IN THE ART OF ORIGAMI?
I folded this or the other paper crane when I was younger. But it was after my graduation (from high school) that I got more immersed. During the summer that followed I sat infront of my computer looking through ads for vacant apartments. And while I was waiting, I started folding. I tried everything that I found instructions for. Different animals, flowers and decorations. Within a short time I realized what amused me most, namely, unit origami. Several key points pieced together into a completed work.
HOW HAVE YOU OBTAINED THIS KNOWLEDGE?
With the computer habit that I have, I looked up lots of different tutorials for all possible types of origami. It's not difficult to fold. I have interest and patience. The instructions you find vary. Some are nicely illustrated instructions while some may be carelessly plotted by hand or even worse - in a completely different language. I'ts frustrating, but all you need is time to figure it out.
HAVE YOU EVER BEEN TO JAPAN?
(The art of) Origami originates from Japan and it would be incredibly fun to visit the capital. I've promised my cousin that we should go there in the near future and stay at a kareoke hotel. It would be really exciting just to be there and experience the large and modern city, that Tokyo is.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO CREATE A PAIR OF EARRINGS?
A pair of origami earrings, take just over an hour. The most boring aspect which also takes the most time, is the preparation itself. That is, marking and cutting out all the parts.
HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON THE FORM AND SHAPE?
Since I've focused on unit origami, I tried different weight charts until I found this unique shape. I like it because it's triangular, circular and square at the same time. At first my idea was this "square ball" as a decorative ornament until I realized that they were cool as earrings,too.
WHAT DIFFERENT TYPES OF EARRINGS CAN WE FIND AMONG YOUR DESIGNS?
Origami earrings are so unique to this particular model. But I also do "regular" jewellry of beads, wood and wire. The origami earrings are fun to make and reflects more of my personality.
WHO DO YOU TARGET YOUR JEWELLRY TOWARDS?
My jewellry and my products are targeted at those who appreciate handmade, original and personal items. I've had the chance to meet many of my customers and have realized that all were exuberant and had wonderful personalities, interesting and in a way or another enterprising people, that you can do nothing but admire.
YOU ALSO DESIGN LAMPS, WHEN DID YOU START THIS VENTURE?
A few years ago I found another kind of origami - where you fold strips of paper. I quickly found a favorite shape. Found it interesting and used it as decoration in the home. After the first success of the earrings, I thought it would be interesting to make the lamps and realized that the golden oldies would fit perfectly for this. They are more transparent and allows light to shine through the triangular shapes leaving beautiful marks on the walls and ceilings.
ARE YOU LOOKING TO WORK WITH OTHER MATERIALS APART FROM PAPER?
There are endless ideas for products from Tamashaka. I would like to work with fabric and metal in the future. In due course, everything will be improved and new ideas created. Hopefully I'll be able to offer a wide range of unique things.
HOW DO YOU DISCPILINE YOURSELF?
Since childhood, I realized that I'm able to do what I want if I just want it. I also very quickly realized that reluctancy can block me from performing. I have no objection to tear and fight for something that truly interests me, that I feel that I get something out of. I can handle that type of stress.
WHAT IS YOUR PERSONAL STYLE?
I would say that it's mixed. I have gone through so many different styles and periods in my life that I've now become a lose bag of sweets. It's a bit sweet, a little salt and a bit sour. But, I feel balanced and happy. There are some who refuse to recognize that you can be a bit of everything.
IS YOUR PERSONAL STYLE REFLECTED IN YOUR DESIGN?
As for the style of jewellry that I buy myself, it's also mixed. I think a lot of fun color combinations, different shapes and funky patterns. I personally think that it comes forward in my constructions.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN ADDITION TO YOUR BUSINESS VENTURE?
The company is just newly hatched and a part-time job, as I recently started studies in Interaction Design in Malmö. I hope that Tamashaka eventually expands to the extent that I can spend all my time on it.
HOW YOU FIND TIME FOR OTHER ACTIVITIES?
With my studies and Tamashaka, there isn't as much time as I would have wanted to have had. When I have time, it's important to distribute it evenly with loved ones. Sometimes the balance can be difficult to keep up, but I do my best to do everything that makes me feel good. General well-being results in energy to succeed with your studies, and cope with stressful environments.
HOW DO YOU WANT YOUR BRAND TO DEVELOP?
The origami is only a small fraction of what I'd like to do. I want Tamashaka.com to have everything from an old-fashioned housewife spirit to personal geek humour. Everyone should feel that they found something handmade by artisans. Energy breeds energy. Creativity can be stimulated by others' creativity.
The Storm
Photographed By: Ellinor Forje
"Life does not consist mainly, or even largely, of facts and happenings. It consists mainly of the storm of thought that is forever flowing through one's head."
- Mark Twain
Rasmus Storm, is always researching and conceptualizing. He keeps his eyes on the street and his mind on the next step. That is how he keeps ahead of the game, in his game.
Rasmus and Line Storm, opened the clothing store Storm, in Copenhagen, 16 years ago. "Monocle" describes it as "Perfect Highstreet". It is one of the top rankings concept stores in the world. On a list where you'll also find; The Apple Stores and Colette in Paris. Storm, is an opinion leading store. Anyone seeking to launch their product, that is where they go.
Line and Rasmus are "Retail Créaturs", they only keep items in the stores that they like themselves. Rather than selling a product, they present you with an idea. It's then up for you to figure out who you are.
In the store, you'll find designs from Visvim, Kitsune, Thom Browne, Adam Kimmel, Ralph Lauren, Celine, Haider Ackermann, Ann Demeulemeester, to mention only a few. The clothing shop which started off as a lifestyle - accessory - clothing store for men, is now 50/50. Storm, has also found a middle-ground in unisex products.
"We have everything that goes to togther naturally. Photography inspires fashion and the other way around" said Rasmus. It's therefore not suprising that you'll find books on Helmut Newton alongside a photo exhibition and beauty products from Comme des Garçons, under the same roof. Rasmus also has a background in photography. It's therefore not surprising that Storm has the composition of a perfect still image: In one end of the store you'll see a mannequin dressed in a strict Upper East inspired outfit, with its positive transperancy on the opposite side of the room.
In all, The Storms are fashion forward people. And, unlike some other couples, they have no problem working alongside each other 24/7. At the end of the day, it is not the work they take home with them after a hard day of labour:
It's their passion.
Madam Ambassador
Photographed By Ellinor Forje
The American Ambassador to Sweden, Matthew Winthrop Barzun, graduated Magna Cum Laude from Harvard College in 1993. However, when it comes to the fine arts, he doesn't have a clue. But, he's strong in his weakness, "You need to speak to my wife, Brooke, I'll find her for you," he said, as he plotted the escape route from being forever trapped in a life, in a painting.
The Harvard Club Of Sweden
Photographed By: Ellinor Forje
On March 18,2010, the American Ambassadorial Couple, hosted a cocktail party at their residence in Stockholm. The following were some of the attendees:
Henrik Sanderg, front figure at Handelsbanken in Sweden and alumnus of the Harvard Business School in Boston. His personal style suggests that there are interesting things going on in the banking world right now (the hair was spiked á la Billy Idol, but I have no photos, sorry). Then, there was is wife.
Margaretha Sandberg used to work as an accountant before becoming financial manager. To her, accountants are boring dressers. Interestingly, a lecturer I once had in accounting, shared a similar view. He would often say, "Accountants are the most boring dressers. I know one when I see one." And I remember thinking, "Well, here's to looking at you kid."
Sandberg, is an excellent dresser. And her "accounting days" of wearing uptight (as she calls them) blouses, have been replaced with leather coats and suede jackets. She swears by the German brand, Tuzzi. And her preferred place to shop in Stockholm is at Modevillan, where you can find everything from jeans to evening dresses.
That being said and suede and leather aside, the most fashionable aspect of the Sandberg couple, that would have pushed Patrick Bateman over the edge (or atleast given him a run for his money), was their joint Husband and Wive, business card, they handed out at the cocktail party. "We also have seperate cards for work, but at parties we usually hand out our joint one, as we attend most social functions together," said Sandberg.
Conrad Ankarcrona, is also an alumnus of the Harvard Business School. Tall and elegant. He wore he wore a crimson red tie to the party. After a long service in the private sector - both home and abroad, he is retired and living in Stockholm. He chose Ford over Volvo in the start of is career. He now finds humour in the fact that the former now owns the latter.
And last, but not least, the lady wore a beautiful chocolate coloured suit, to the avant soirée, Amanda Spaner Åkerman, alumna of Harvard Law School. She currently works with a law firm in Stockholm. Her area of expertis is Intellectual Property. And boy was I glad to run into her. I find everything dealing with the law, extremly fascinating.
Vintage Boulevard
Photographed By: Isabel Nilsson
Make Up: Karin Rydström
Clothes Provided By: Sheena Is
Styled By: Ellinor Forje
Models: Khojesta H and Pauline
The Fountain Of Youth - Part I
Photographed By Ellinor Forje
"I was pretty. So it wasn't strange; men would chase me all the time."
- Gunilla Pontén
Gunlla Pontén has something to say about everybody. There's Swedish politician who she found rude, because he didn't hold the door open for her. "So what, he thinks that I'm going to vote for his party? He can forget it!" she said. She later directed her attention towards Naomi Campbell, whom She thinks she should quit modelling. "She looks a bit worn out" said Pontén. Then there's Ginger Rogers, whom she met at the Academy Awards' Ceremony years ago, "She had a blue dress on, and it was awful!" said Pontén. She speaks her mind, and rightfully so. People who have nothing to say, never make history.
Pontén is watching "Top Model" in her Art Déco inspired home. "I want to see who gets voted out," she said. She empathises with the contestants and the pressure they're under. She, if anyone, knows what it's like to be a young model. "They don't have a enough life experience to know that Tyra is hag and that they're better off without her" she said.
Pontén was born in 1929, in a conservative epoque where fashionable wear for a young girls coming of age was nonexistent´. "The clothes were designed for dames and gentlemen. It was the ugliest thing I knew" said Ponteén. She wanted to wear colouful socks. Be different. And finally, one day, her mother gave her a pair, "My mother was politically incorrect"said Pontén.
"They were red and green, long and made from wool," said Ponteén. And later she added, "I was so happy. It was like someone who loves cars, recieving a Cadillac." She wore them all the time. "I sometimes joke that Astrid Lindgren got her inspiration for Pippi Longstockings, from me!" said Pontén.
The socks got Pontén into trouble in school. She would often to get into trouble in school, not just for her bold fashion statements, but also for talking back to her teachers. But Despite the "semi deliquency", she loved learning. "I was good at languages, but bad at math" she said.
Read Part II HERE.
The Fountain Of Youth - Part II
Photographed By Ellinor Forje
"I've always been different. If something is trendy, then I don't want it."
- Gunilla Pontén
Pontén studied desgin at Beckmans School of Design, in Stockholm. "I wasn't any good at cutting," she said. But, she was good at designing. And she would often wear her own creations, while a student living in the capital of Sweden. This was in the 1940"People would buuh at me on the street" she said. That is how awful they thought she looked
It was around that time, that the editor in chief of, "Damernas Värld randomly discovered Gunilla on the street, and asked if she would be interested in modelling for the magazine. The rest as they say, is history.
"I quickly became famous," said Pontén, adding "I had no competitors, in the whole of the Nordic Region." And, teenge girls all over Sweden would emulate her style often wearing her signtaure black and white corsettes. "They were cute little girls who were Pontén copies" said Pontén.
The only other person, who came to close to rivaling Pontén at the time was another young designer, by the name Kerstin Lokrantz "We created teenage fashion,the two of us" she said. Lokrantz, is now of late, but the memory of her is still vivid in Pontén's mind, and she recalls her style, "she was one hell of a dresser, blond and very pretty."
Pontén's collection for the autumn and winter 2010, is more colourful than usual. The lines are asymetric, the trousers are harem-inspired, and there are hats paired with all the clothes.
The hats, she often wears one. But she isn't wearing one now, as she seated in her living room glancing through articles written about her through the decades. She often looks back at her work and life with nostalgia, but she doesn't want to be young again; "I've done good things, bad things, been married several times..." She accepts her deeds and misdeeds as a part of who she is.
Pontén is youthful. Although she's not completely in accordance with the present generation. She has something to say about them, too. If there's one thing she can't tolerate, it's impoliteness. "In my time, young people would question things without being rude. It was a time when people cared and respected each other" she said.
However, Pontén still finds it difficult to relate to people her own age. She cant' stand them. "I refuse to be an old lady" she said. And later she added, "All they do is sit there, preaching a moral code."
The Organizers
Photographed By Ellinor Forje
Sara Hansen (the brunette), is the beauty and the brain behind the annual event, FashionSunday at Grand Hotel, Lund, Sweden.
She Wears YSL - Part I
Photo Courtesy Of Fernanda Palmeiro
Fernanda Palmeiro, Editor in Chief and PR and Marketing Manager at CPH Vision, shares her story.
WHEN DID YOU KNOW THAT YOU WANTED TO WORK IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
I’ve always been interested, but I didn’t know exactly what it was I wanted work with within fashion…I considered becoming a stylist, but it’s not really my thing to be running around dragging heavy bags and things. I was always fascinated by the publication industry and read everything that came my way – both for inspiration and for information. When I was young I used to pretend that I owned a fashion magazine.
HAVE YOU FACED ANY OBSTACLES ALONG THE WAY?
I think it all boils down to your attitude. I’ve always been so focused on working hard and reaching my goal, that I never noticed the obstacles. The fact that my Danish isn’t 100% perfect could have been an obstacle since I work in Copenhagen. But, I’ve been able to turn it to my advantage. People probably think it’s strange that I’m the Swedish girl, who speaks Scandinavian, who really isn’t Swedish but I’m actually Latina blah blah blaaaah…It’s become something of a joke, “when Fernanda calls you need to have a Swedish – Danish lexicon at hand.” Hahaha, I laugh at the joke myself!
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO STUDY IN SPAIN?
I just wanted to get away and study abroad. I considered Paris and Milano, but I was too tired to learn a new language. Then I found an Italian school, Instituto Europeo di Design that had an affiliate in Spain, so it was perfect. It didn’t hurt either, that Barcelona is a wonderful city, and the warm climate!
DO YOU RECOMMEND THE SCHOOL TO OTHERS?
I studied there when the school had just opened, so it was a bit chaotic and disorganized. I don’t know if it’s gotten better, but I was directly satisfied. However, it’s a good foundation –but not the most ultimate city to study in. There’s so much fun stuff happening there all the time, and you also have the mañana-attitude which can be a bit dangerous!
WHICH OTHER SCHOOLS DO YOU RECOMMEND?
(Instituto) Marangoni in Milano, is supposed to be really good. I know several people who have studied there. But then, you also have to know Italian.
HAVE YOU FACED ANY NEGATIVITY CONCERNING YOUR CHOICE OF CAREER?
The fashion industry is a very fascinating world, at the same time it’s very hard and closed. In the beginning it was surprising to so see how rude people could be- but it’s probably like that in most industries when you’re a newcomer – right? As long as you don’t let it get to you. And, as long as you do a good job and you are polite, you will emerge as the winner – kill them with your kindness. But, of course, you shouldn’t be kind to a fault, where people start walking all over you.
She Wears YSL - Part II
Photo Courtesy Of Fernanda Palmeiro
HOW HAVE YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY SUPPORTED YOU?
The all think that I work too much. But, they are very understanding. My work is mostly periodical. When I work with something that I like, I tend to submerge myself in it a bit too much. I’m lucky that people put up with me, because sometimes I disappear into own work-sphere for months before the fairs. The lines between my work and private life get erased. Or, rather, my private life completely disappears. I’m also a control freak. I’m constantly checking my email, and it’s hard for me to delegate assignments to others. But, I’ve become better.
Even a week after the fair had ended – and even though we were all exhausted and there wasn’t that much to do, we all sat in the office and worked passed 5 pm. We were in a work mode, almost like a little sect. The boss had to send us home.
But, yes my friends and family have been a tremendous support!
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT SWEDISH/DANISH DESIGN IN GENERAL?
The fashion is democratic - price-wise and design-wise. The clothes are of good quality and of reasonable prices. I also think that there’s a difference between the Swedish and Danish fashion. The Swedish fashion is more stylish, while the Danes are more daring when it comes to form and colour. But, the Swedes are a bit sharper, while the Danes are looser. I think that we are always ahead style-wise!
WHERE DO YOU THINK IT IS HEADING?
The brand that do really well abroad, are the very commercial; as internationally the Scandinavia isn’t known for its high end/couture. It’s probably because the target group doesn’t exist. Those who buy really expensive design probably prefer to buy well known brands like – what can I say, Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana. It’s a shame that people don’t chose to support our local designers instead. Our strength lays in the fact that we can create fashion for everybody. The other day, I was at the YDE show, Ole Yde. It was very impressive and proves that we also known how to do high end/couture. But to answer the question: Where are we heading? – In Copenhagen we want to profile our self as the fifth fashion capital. We are on our way, there’s no doubt about that. But, there’s still a long road ahead.
WHO ARE YOUR FAVOURITE DESIGNERS – DANISH AS WELL AS INTERNATIONAL?
Of the Danish brands, I like the younger brands like Stine Goya and Henrik Vibskov. I can easily wear their anything from their collections straight off the catwalk. Swedish brands. Acne and Whyred, which is not completely unexpected – it’s even a bit cliché. I buy a lot of Acne and Whyred. It’s uncomplicated and affordable, and you can easily buy it online. It takes two days for the items to arrive,that is service I tell you. I love Acne’s Spring collection, and I’m starting to like Whyred more and more.
As for international brands: YSL without a doubt. The YSL – look, is my idea of a power-woman! When it comes to shoes, I say YSL again. It’s classy, sexy, feminine, sky high heels – doesn’t get better than that! I also like Stella McCartney, Balenciaga and Givenchy.
WHAT WEIGHT DOES CPH VISION CARRY IN THE FASHION WORLD?
We see ourselves as a business platform. You come to our fairs to do business. It’s also a showroom, of course and a networking-platform. But, our fair is mostly known to be the fair where people place orders. CPH Vision was founded in 1998 by Jan Busch Carlsen; with the vision of focusing on the established brands, as well as to the small and upcoming designers, equally.
At the other fairs in the world, it’s only those who can afford to be profiled, who get seen. At our fairs we don’t distinguish between big and small. In order to give everybody the same pre-conditions, we have rules on how big you are allowed to build your stall. It was at CPH Vision that brands such as, Bruuns Bazaar and By Malene Birger, got established, and Birger Mikkelsen started of very small. CPH Vision and Terminal – 2, is where tomorrow’s stars are born.
WHAT TIPS CAN YOU OFFER TO PEOPLE WHO WANT A CAREER IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY?
Flexibility, above all! There’s no such thing as a 9 – 5 jobb or inconvenience salary. If I had gotten paid for all the hours I’ve worked overtime, I would have been rich!I don’t think you can do it in the long-run, if it’s not something you’re passionate about or see it something that can lead to bigger things. You always have to be prepared that things can change in the last minute. Be determined, work hard, be firm and know what you want. And, don’t be afraid to speak your mind, so that people don’t run you over.
The Museum Of Sketches
Photographed By: Isabel Nilsson
Make Up: Karin Rydström
Styled By: Ellinor Forje
Model: Pauline F
The Fabulous Fernanda Palmeiro
Photo Courtesy Of Fernanda Palmeiro
Fernanda Palmeiro has a petite frame like Kylie Minogue. Yet, she is statuesque. And bold. If she were a character on the TV-show "The Sopranos", Corrado "Junior" Soprano, would tell you that Fernanda has tremendous moxie for her size. She is, as they say, the one running things.
Palmeiro, currently holds the position of PR and Marketing Manager at the CPH Vision and Terminal 2 Fashion Fairs. Inspired? She's also the Editor in Chief of their magazine, "The Vision".
Though a self-proclaimed workaholic, Palmeiro, finds time for leisure, too. She deejays and loves to travel. New York is one of her favourite destinations. The city where she briefly worked as an au pair, after studying marketing and communication at Instituto Europeo di Design, in Spain, a few years ago. Her academic effort would later land her, an internship with the glossy publication Danske Magazine, then later, the position as its Deputy Editor.
She's forgetful. Palmeiro, sometimes leaves her keys in her sister's bag, then accuses her senior of delibrately locking her out of her apartment. They bicker and slug it out online. Her sister, Micaela Gosende would tell her she's in need of seabreeze and valium to calm down her nerves. Palmeiro would respond by telling Gosende, she's evil. But their quarrels always end with an:
I
LOVE
YOU.
Oh these sisters! You can't live with them, but you can't live without them. Where's my valium?
She loves her family, and talks about them all the time, especially her little nephew. Palmeiro also loves fashion. And she never wear the same outfit twice in one day. Anna Dello Russo, you've got some serious competition headed your way! More in our Q&A:
Ellinor: First of all, I'd like to know what you were wearing on both the occasions I ran into you in Copenhagen during the Fashion Week.
Fernanda: The first time, I wore a black dress that I bought in a vintage boutique, with a fur vest that I bought in another vintage boutique...and my Yves Saint Laurent ankle boots. They stayed faithful to me the entire Fashion Week.
Later in the evening, I wore a pair of jeans from Acne, with a white smoking-vintage-vest. The body is by Americal Apparel, Yves Saint Laurent ankle boots, ostrich -feather jacket and pony clutch by Natalia Brilli. Yes, from a real pony - unfortunately...I know. But, it's effing fabulous!!!!
Ellinor: What is your Philosophy Of Life?
Fernanda: Philosophy Of Life - I'm always in high heels. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger - I think that's the frame of mind you need when you're working in the fashion industry, where you're always dealing with unforseen situations, big egos, 15-hour working days, a lot of work, little sleep, multitasking, and one million projects at the same time. But, it's the passion and adrenaline that keeps you going. And then, when it's all over, you get a post-fashion-week downer and you can't wait for the next one. You ask yourself; "why do I bitch and complain so much, when it actually was a lot of fun!"
She's the fast and the furious.
In one day Fernanda is everywhere, and nowhere to be found in Copenhagen. One minute she's supervising fashion shows. The next, she's doing press. Later on you'll find her having a drink at The First Hotel; only to see her the next second having dinner at an Asian restaurant in the Latin Quarter.
You literally have to stalk this lady to catch her. And even then - just like that, she's gone:
Again.
Read more about Fernanda Palmeiro in "The Angel Wears Prada" Part 1 And Part 2.
The Talented Janniz Antoniou
Photographed By: Ellinor Forje
"I have a son, that joy can't be expressed in anything. He's number one. Everything else comes secondary."
- Janniz Antoniou
Janniz Antoniou had a friend in primary school who could draw well. His name was Joakim Olofsson. Joakim's creativity, inspired Janniz to draw an Easter Egg as part of an assignment for class. His teacher didn't believe he had drawn it, and gave him a low grade.
The Chronicle:
'83-87 Breakdance/Graffiti
'88-93 Hip Hop Productions/Dj
'93-97 House/Dj
'98-06 Hip Hop/Rnb Productions/ Club Promoter/ Dj
'07 - Progressive Productions/Art
Janniz cites two movies of the early 80's as his biggest inspirations: One is, "Beat Street" the other, "Breakdance: The Movie". These masterpieces got him into Breakdancing, Electric Boogie and DJing. These films also made him realize he had a passion for the art of Graffiti. He became part of a crew, NSA - New School Authority. This group consisting of Core, Pike and Janniz aka Ruze, would watch other B-Boys dance the streets of Lund together, while they spray painted its walls.
In the late 80's and early 90's, Janniz set his spray cans aside and started focusing more on a career in music. Working with some of Sweden's finest musician Janniz, went on to established himself as something of a household name in the city of Lund. But, he limited himself, he restricted his talent, while the others went on to inforce themselves as Sweden's Hip Hop elite.
"The street culture is conservative, or it was back then." said Janniz explaining his love for others genres of music like the Depeche Mode, that he hadn't openly admitted, then. He broke away from his inhibitions and started playing more House Music at his venues. The music was still always rooted in soul.
Janniz had escaped his inhibitions. But, he was still plagued by an element that is innate in all human beings:
Fear.
The fear of failing. The fear of succeeding.
Until;
"Fear knocked at the door. Faith answered. And behold, no one was there."
The Talent overcame his fear.
Around 2007, Janniz started painting again. His music also became more progressive. He was inspired by the white walls in the new apartment he had just moved into; they needed colour. He also had a 20-year-old canvas, sitting in his closet. "The graff came back." said Janniz.
Janniz' paintings are abstract, beautiful and colourful. He remains private in his creative process. "I still have to work on my technique" said Janniz. Yeah well, we all do. Even the Mona Lisa could have benifitted from a bit more depth. La Joconde is still stunning to look at, despite its visible imperfection.
Janniz believes that no other subculture has influenced the spectrum of fashion, more than the Hip Hop culture. "What formally belonged to a subgroup has become nothing at all." said Janniz continuing, "The feeling of exlusivity, was nice." He has also had his fair share of fashion shows from venues he used to DJ at; "I've had enough." he said. But, he admitts that he enjoys seeing his in-law Fernanda Palmeiro at "her game" as he calls it. Yet, he's not into the whole fashion thing: "As long as I have a pair of jeans, a t-shirt and a pair of sneakers, I'm good. I spend my money more on music - related items."
Janniz feels that he's still looking for a concrete ground to stand on. It's possible he's found it. "Man, has to be rational to obtain his goals." said Janniz. His wisdom is only matched by the artistry of his Talent.
As for Janniz' primary school-drawing instructor; Only God knows what became of him. Those who can't do, teach. Those who can't teach should get lost, and stay gone.
Models Behind The Scene
Photographed By Ellinor ForjeIf you go to The First Hotel on the right night, you might get a glimpse of beautiful creatures getting dressed to impress.
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