KINK: April Edition
Kemilah Stewart: @kemilah.stewart
Age: 24
Hometown: Savannah, Ga.
Current City: Chicago, IL.
Occupation: Flight Attendant + Commercial Model
Motivation: My family and The legacy that I will leave
Interests: Reading, Film, Black History, and Modeling
Three People that inspire you? Jesus, My mom, and Tyler Perry
How long have you been natural? 10+ Years
What is wash day to you? Both Self Care and a Headache
Do you have good hair? Yes, Good hair is healthy hair
What does your hair represent to you? It’s my best accessory!
Hair Goals? To have more volume and minimal heat damage
Favorite Styles: Twist Out + Flexirod
Current Product Favs? As I Am + Mane Choice
CREATING THE LOOK with SHANNA ANISE
@redmystiqueart
Occupation: Hairstylist | Years of Experience: 10+ years | Freelancer + In Salon Stylist |
Specialty: Holistic Natural Hair + Creative Editorial Style |
Location: Atlanta, Ga. | Hometown: Upper Marlboro MD + Washington, DC |
Shanna Anise @redmystiqueart - Hairstylist | Photo: @drexinanelson
What was your preparation processes in creating these looks?
In preparation for these looks, I first took the time to select hair extensions that closely matched my model's hair. Time management plays a huge part in creating these looks. As a set hairstylist you must take into account everyone else's time, and the shoot day schedule. Normally, I would create the foundations of each style pre-shoot however these looks were created on site. I allowed the mood board images to be my guide in finalizing the looks.
What would you name this editorial based on the art direction?
Architectural Goddess
Can you give us insight into your vision for this shoot?
My vision for this shoot was to show the phenomenal spirit and beauty of the black woman. She is royal. Hence the name Architectural Goddess.
What is your specialty?
My specialty is holistic natural hair care, and editorial hair styling. I love using my imagination to create natural hairstyles that defy the laws of gravity.
How do you stay innovative and a trendsetter in your creations?
I have always approached the art of hairstyling by walking to the beat of my own drum. I think innovation comes from inspiration. I connect with every style I create because I see the possibility. It is all about how I can flow with the hair and manipulate it to my will. I personally don't look at myself as a trendsetter... just a dope creative that wants to always push past the boundaries of, “No You Can’t”!
What is your "WHY" in being a creator? My "why” is that I love the challenge of breathing life into an image that’s floating in my mind! This is what I am most passionate about!
What is your creative spirit animal? The ladybug is my spirit animal. She is a messenger of divine, feminine, and goddess energy. The ladybug spirit animal brings us closer to our intuition and our ability to open up to receive the gifts of the cosmos. She is the spark of child-like wonder and a reminder to inhale the awesomeness of the natural world.
What is some advice that you would give to stylist interested in being in the natural hair market? Find your why, and use this as your roadmap or guide to marketing yourself and creating your story as a stylist. Your work and your story is what others will connect to when hiring a professional stylist. Also, it is important to maintain a quarterly educational routine. Learning and mastering new skills will keep you relevant in this business. Ask questions and do your own research. Never stop feeding your interest!
What advice would you give to others that are interested in freelancing?
Do your research!!! Freelancing is amazing with the right people, but it has its ups and downs. So, be honest with yourself and cognizant of the unknown factors that may disrupt your journey. You will have to make sacrifices, you will make mistakes, and you will doubt yourself. It’s all a part of the journey.
Name 3 people that inspire you within your industry
Kim Kimble: Her business savvy and marketing genius is just dope!
Shani Crowe: I love her braiding techniques!
Camille Friend: Her amazing set work, and her vision as department lead on a multitude of award-winning movies are inspirational!
KINKY TEAM: Thanks for the hair tips for people that are interested in the industry. Now I would love for you to share some insight for the natural ladies…
What are some tips for natural girls that are bored with their style, and want something new and different?
Experimenting with different hairstyles is the perfect way to break the boredom! Natural hair is only boring to someone who doesn't understand the scope of what natural hair can do! My suggestion to breaking the boredom is to first start by stepping outside the box you have created for yourself. Stop saying that you can’t wear a certain style, and try it! Be daring and BOLD! I find that many people that are bored with their hair haven’t really explored their options! However, in your pursuit of exploring new styles, make sure that you maintain a good hair care routine. Healthy hair will always give you the best hairstyles!
Photographer: Drexina Nelson @drexinanelson
Hair: Shanna Anise @redmystiqueart
Makeup: Kira Zitney @kirazitney
Shot on Location: @thesocietystudios
Wardrobe Provided by @thesocietystudios