Feature: Sindy Pierce

Country	USA
Area	Florida
ModelMayhem	MM=4433831
Twitter	@Sindy_Pierce_
Instagram	@sindy_pierce

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GGotW: When did you start modeling?
SP: I started modeling around the start of 2019 but I didn't transition into alt modeling until April 2019. I'm still pretty new!

GGotW: What kind of modeling did you do at first?
SP: I did mostly classic Florida modeling - bikini and fitness type shoots.

GGotW: What caused you to transition from bikini modeling to ALT modeling?
SP: I didn't transition out of bikini modeling entirely. As you can see from my Instagram feed, I definitely still do bikini shoots. Before I started alt modeling, I was trying to maintain the "girl next door" look that's classic for Florida models. But, that didn't match my personal style at all - it wasn't very authentic. Now, I'm modeling suits that are more alternative (like my buckle suit or my leather bikini) and the makeup has my gothier vibe that's much more "me" and I think people pick up on that.

GGotW: How have you been able to push for ALT modeling in more mainstream adverts?
SP: Leather is super in right now so that's an easy stepping stone. I was able to do a more alt look for a car advertisement which you don't see a lot. The company that hired me was into my leather skirt/jacket/booties look so I paired it with darker make up for an alt style.

I've started to blend my bikini experience with alt makeup - it's being received well! I'd like to do more of that in the future.

GGotW: Leather or lace, what is your preference?
SP: Leather, definitely. I have like leather everything - jackets, shorts, pants, skirts, corsets, chokers, booties, a hat, bags, and even a leather bikini. I love the look and feel of the material.

What have you found to be the hardest thing about modeling?
SP: Figuring out who is genuine and who is trying to take advantage of you. I've met some really great people in the industry, but I've also come across a lot of people who just try to use you for their own benefit.

GGotW: How do you stay pale in Florida?
SP: Sunscreen is a must (try to pick brands that are safe for coral)! My daily moisturizer has SPF so that helps day-to-day. If I know I'm going to be outside for more than 30 minutes, I'm religious about applying SPF 50+ to any part of my body that will be exposed to the sun. Also, if I'm going to be outside for extended periods of time I wear an oversized hat to protect my face and neck. Overall, I do my best to be prepared, but I still get burned from time to time - such is life!

GGotW: What advice can you give to other ALT models looking to start?
SP: Advice I have for any model looking to start is to prioritize your safety over anything else. Do your research and trust your instincts! And, pardon my cliche, if something seems to good to be true - it probably is.

Advice I have specifically for alt models is that the alt community is super supportive - use them as a resource! Don't be afraid to reach out to other alt models/artists for tips and tricks because, in my experience, the community has been super willing to help each other out.

Feature: Vampiria33

Country	United States
Area	New York
Instagram	vampiria33
Height	5'5" (165cm)

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GGotW: When did you first realize you were Goth?
V33: I was first introduced to gothic music by a friend when I was 16/17, so this was when I first learned about the subculture. A couple years later I started attending goth events and parties in my city and met people whose entire lifestyles were goth - from the music to the fashion to their interests. I realized that for the first time I found something that felt like me, and I’ve been a part of the subculture ever since.

GGotW: What is it that attracts you to the subculture?
V33: I love everything dark — the subculture allows me to express this through music, literature, fashion, and lifestyle. I’m also attracted to the creativity and originality of the people in the subculture.

GGotW: What started you modeling?
V33: When I was younger I was interested in fashion, but I never really thought about photographing myself or modeling. About 4 years ago I was going through a very tough time in my life- I’d just been diagnosed with a chronic illness and was having a lot of health issues, and I was also dealing with a bad breakup. To distract myself, I started dressing up and taking photos of my daily outfits and posting them online. I kept doing this for a little while before I realized that I was very passionate about modeling and photography. Although my first photos honestly weren’t that good, creating these images gave me confidence and I really started to see myself as beautiful. It was also at this time that I was contacted by New Rock to model for them - I remember being so excited haha. As time progressed, I started working with more brands and learning more about the actual photographic process itself - I purchased a DSLR, started learning about lighting and composition of photos, and taught myself photoshop.

GGotW: Who or what inspires you?
V33: So many things! While I try to remain inspired by ideas in my own head a lot of the time to try to be original, there are definitely a few artists and models that I’d love to mention. The first artist that comes to mind when people ask about my inspirations is a Polish painter named Zdzisław Beksiński. I used to study painting and drawing, and he was always my biggest inspiration then and now. I actually have a plan to get a few of his pieces tattooed :) Beksiński is known for creating creepy, dystopian surrealistic works. While a lot of Beksiński’s themes aren’t immediately present in my photography, his work is incredibly meaningful to me and has been my biggest inspiration for years. I’m also inspired by a lot of the models and artists I follow, including Mahafsoun, Threnody In Velvet, The Black Metal Barbie, Obsidian Kerttu, and many others.

GGotW: What photographers do you tend to work with?
V33: I don’t usually work with photographers - I take all my own photos! While I have shot with a few photographers in the past, modeling and photography is a creative outlet for me so I prefer to do all aspects of the shoot myself, from photography and editing to makeup and styling.

GGotW: Do you ever model outside the Goth aesthetic?
V33: Not usually. Alternative and gothic modeling is who I am, so I tend to stick to what feels like me. Even if I do a shoot that isn’t completely gothic, I still have black hair and tattoos, so the photos still look pretty alternative anyway.

GGotW: Do you work with any particular brands?
V33: I do! As I mentioned earlier, the first brand I ever worked with was New Rock. Since then I’ve expanded over the years, collaborating with brands and companies such as Killstar, Punk Design Shop, Malefic Apparel, Dirtymind Cosmetics, and EvaHair.

Event: Goths at the Zoo

Country	USA
Area	St. Louis, MO
Facebook	Goths at the Zoo
When	Sunday Sept. 29
Time	9am - 5pm
Price	Free

GGotW: What started the event Goths at the Zoo?
Megan: A combination of boredom and discussing Bats Day at Disneyland with other fellow goths online. While Disneyland is great it’s not really wallet friendly so I sat at work and thought “You know, we got a free zoo and meetup there would be great idea” and made the event. I figured only 10 people would show up at best, by the end of the day there were 72 people who hit the “going” part of the facebook event. At that point I knew it would officially be a thing.

GGotW: How many people showed up to the first one?
Megan: The first one was kind of unofficial and an experiment. Only less than 100 made it out to that one cause it was set in July so it was horribly hot out. We did the official first one in September which reached over 100 attendees.

GGotW: How did the Zoo feel about it, or did they know in advance that you were doing it?
Megan: I did inform them in advance and they were pretty excited about it. The zoo staff are mostly welcoming. Some of them we can tell tolerate us because they have to but most of them are really awesome! We’ve had staff drive by on carts saying hello, complementing our outfits and asking for pictures. I think deep down some of those keepers are goths.

GGotW: When is the event this year?
Megan: September 29th. All day event from the zoos opening to closing.

GGotW: Who can attend the event?
Megan: Everyone! Despite the name we want to be inclusive to all alternative subcultures and everyone in-between.

GGotW: What should people know if they are thinking of coming this year?
Megan: First of all, if you’ve never been, the St.Louis Zoo is honestly one of the best zoos in the U.S. It’s free, the animals are well taken care of and it’s a ton of fun! Even before this event I always tried to drag out new friends who have never been there to it because it’s always been one of my favorite places in the city. We’re also planning on having team meetups, scavenger hunts and trivia quizzes with prizes.

On a more serious note though I want people to know who are coming that this is NOT a costume or cosplay event. The zoo has strict rules against that but we’re also not big on it either. We highly encourage people just being their true authentic selves, that’s kind of the point behind the whole thing. If you don’t really want to wear black because it’s hot DO IT! We want you to be comfortable as well.

Most clothes and boots are fine. Just no shirts with curse words on them and nothing that’ll cover the face such as goggles. As far as makeup goes the zoo prefers makeup that doesn’t change skin tone, doesn’t go above eyebrows and doesn’t cover cheeks. Lips can be any color so long as they stay on the lips.

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For more information on the event, and find out about the meetups and scavenger hunts through the day, visit their Facebook Page.

Necrocomiccon 2015

Feature: Saphire Rainforest

Facebook
ModelMayhem

	Chest	Waist	Hips	Height	Weight
Imperial	32"	25"	39"	5"9'	133lb
Metric	81cm	63cm	99cm	175cm	60kg

GGotW: What got you started as a model, and when?
SR: I started modeling about 3 months ago as a way to be included in the fashion industry in another way. I'm also an aspiring fashion designer, but I know that will take years to break into. Modeling allows me to meet photographers, models, designers, MUA's, and lots id wonderful people. People have told me for a long time that I should model, but I'm not interested in traditional modeling that would limit my creativity.  I'm open to many forms of modeling and I'm not limited to alternative styles, but I prefer it.

GGotW: Who have you worked with?
SR: I've worked with Ren Garczynski, George Skepton, Darren of OSG Photography, Jason Mahafey of Jason M Photography, and Alena Interrupted.


GGotW: What has been you best experience as a model, to date?
SR: I've had very good experiences as a model,  Modeling for different sites, receiving  positive feedback, and having the pleasure of working with so many wonderful people. I'm discovering Designers, opportunities, other Alternative Models, and lots of things that I probably wouldn't know about if I didn't model.

GGotW: So do you usually wear your own fashions in your shoots?
SR: I try to wear my own fashions whether they are made from scratch or reconstructed. I wear store bought clothes too. I would love to wear designs by some of my favorite brands and designers though.

GGotW: What Are your favorite brands and designers?
SR: My favorite designers and brands are MT coffins, Retroscope, lip service, cyoflesh, toxic vision, demoniac, dark fusion boutique, blu zombie, bibian blue, Isabelle batz, decadent designs, hyde's vice,  sugar and spice DIY, etc.

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Feature: Iniquity

Clips4sale
MySpace
ModelMayhem
Youtube
Fetlife

	Chest	Waist	Corset	Hips	Height	Weight
Imperial	37"	26"	24"	37"	5"3'	137lb
Metric	93cm	66cm	61cm	93cm	160cm	62kg

GGotW: What was it that gave you the bug to be a Goth Model?
I: Being an artist means being able to appreciate aesthetics. I have always wanted to model gothic clothing in particular, due to the feeling I would get when I would see those gorgeous gothic models online. I just imaged how it would feel to have true freedom over yourself, and just wear whatever made you happy regardless of how others felt about it. I loved the confidence those men and women helped bestow upon me at such an early age. I wouldn't trade my style for anything, it makes me feel like I am who I am supposed to be. Being overweight really hindered any fantasy of gothic modeling for me. I felt that no one would want to look at someone model anything at such a heavy weight. I wore a size 24 pants before, and it took a LOT of work to get to where I am today. Modeling is kind of like the cherry of top. It just puts everything I have done into perspective. It's important to me to be able to see the fruits of your labor, and getting an opportunity to have a dream come true through hard work, dedication, and motivation makes it all worth it.

GGotW: Have you been able to do a lot of modeling?
I: I wouldn't say that, but I have worked with a few really awesome photographers here in NC. I have also been a nursing student for awhile now, I am just about to graduate in the summer of 2011 and so it hasn't given me much time for modeling. I work specifically with Michael Koontz of Aerozz Photography. We do mostly fetish and artistic modeling, but my goal is gothic clothing.

GGotW: I understand you are a looner, is that the right term?
I: The looner fetish is new to me, and new for me. The fetish community has a fantastic variety of people in it, and a close friend of mine introduced me to the looner community two years ago. Being a looner is soo much fun. I love hopping on balloons, grinding on them, blowing them up till they pop, sitting on them to pop. I love the feeling of the latex on my skin. It's very similar to wearing a latex outfit, except much less expensive. Balloons are just amazing. Whenever I go into my room, I always have about 5-20 balloons hanging out. I have to be aware of their location because sometime I accidentally step on them and my cat get super freaked out. The looner community is very friendly as well. I have a lot of fans because most looners are men from my experience.

GGotW: What is the looner fetish?
I: The easiest way to explain the looner fetish is : a person who gets sexually aroused through playing with, popping, and touching balloons. Most people LOVE the popping aspect, but there are popper and non-poppers. To my knowledge, there are way more poppers, and I myself am a popper. Poppers love the sound of the balloon popping, the explosion of the balloon turns them on. I love when I blow-to-pop (or B2P), blowing up the balloon (especially very large ones) till they explode right in my face. I've never been hurt, but once popped like 40 balloons with my ass wearing a thong, and my butt was hurting for sure.

GGotW: What other things are you into?
I: If you mean hobbies. I love to paint, draw, make clothing, I sculpt occasionally..and I am a great cook. I also exercise everyday, mostly weight lifting, tae bo, and I have an evil elliptical machine who I have a love/hate relationship with. When I have the time I go to fetish clubs, and goth clubs..but like I said I am a VERY busy woman. I also work full time taking caring for elderly and disabled people in their homes. I LOVE my job, and wouldn't trade it.



** New images from Iniquity for 2010 year end



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Feature: Eileen

Myspace
ModelMayhem
Exploretalent
Vampirefreaks

	Chest	Waist	Hips	Height	Weight
Imperial	36"	25"	37"	6"0'	128lb
Metric	91cm	63cm	94cm	183cm	58kg

GGotW: I understand you have returned to modeling, what kept you away?
E: I modeled MANY years ago in the Hampton Roads area,when I was a teen and younger. Back then modeling gave me self esteem and something to be proud of. I was 6'0 tall,5 inches taller than most of the boys in my school. I was uncomfortable with my height and "olive oil" skinniness. Being around other tall models and an industry full of people who loved my build did wonders for me. I never forgot about my "silly" dream of being a professional working model....but for many years it was just out of reach. I got married and had 2 perfect boys, Cameron and Keagen. Our little family was my life and I was devoted to it. I never thought things would be any different than what it was and at the time was content with that. The funny thing about life is,it forces change in you.

GGotW: What drew you back to modeling?
E: If you can imagine being a wife and mother one day and then the next a unforeseen tragedy taking most of that away,then you have great insight. I never saw the death of my husband,Blake,coming. It has been by far the hardest thing I have ever had to go through,and portions of my life have not always been easy.I was lost as a mother,wife and as a woman. I suddenly had no identity but now looking back it was actually just then,when I was really learning who I was. In time I found I am survivor,not because I am built different than anyone else, rather women as a whole, are strong by default. When you are faced with a major life change it forces you to question everything you ever believed to be true and I did. The end result for me was learning that I am my stone, I carry me, no one else. All the fairy tales and enforced beliefs have no impact on my life, I believe what I want to and accept responsibility for all aspects of my life,good and bad. Which leads me to your question,life circumstance drew me back to my old love of modeling. I had to let go of what was and find what I wanted out of this here and now . I want to model.

GGotW: How long have you been back?
E: I had my first TF shoot in Raleigh N.C. in January. A man from Myspace convinced me to shoot with him and its been on since. (girls do be careful when meeting strangers for a shoot always bring an escort) The mommy in me had to throw that in.

GGotW: What are you liking now that you are back?
E: I really like it all,especially when its a paid event! :) If I had to choose something though I would say that being body painted and photographed so far has been the most fulfilling and creative modeling I have done so far. It is an opportunity to not only create art but be the art. It was hard at first but again,its just another test of courage from life. I am proud to say a collaboration between me and Bob Axel will hang in the So Ho Art Gallery in December. A year ago I couldn't imagine that being true.

GGotW: What would you like to do in a shoot that you haven't yet?
E: Well.....if give it away it may piss off a certain photographer or even worse, someone might get to it before me! I will say this, I am a widow and the set would, in some way, include a spider. HMM :)

GGotW: Who have you worked with?
E: I have been so very fortunate to work with some of the best photographers, artist and designers around. In some cases I "stalked" them on modeling sites and in others I met them through word of mouth. Rick Myers,although the FURTHEST from goth as you can get is simply one of my favorites. He can capture your mood in your eyes, every time. He is the best. Bob Axel, from"bodies of paint",N.Y.C. is so talented in that he is a painter and photographer (and I say a "case of the nerves"soother). Ellen Griffin,V.A., is a friend and a sick photographer,in more ways than one. lol She is responsible for most of my digital artwork photographs I am collaborating with Danny of Denart Studios in N.Y.C. on a future project that I am so very excited about. James Crawford and Bob Wise are also amazing at their craft and I am fortunate to work with both of them. These are a few of the talents I have worked with but I continue to be inspired by those I dream of working for like Tracy of Victoria Velvet.Her designs and photographs inspire me to "live the dream" and when I have had the chance to speak with her, I'm giddy like a school girl. :)

GGotW: What advice would I give to teen girls in this industry
E: Aside from all of the redundant replies such as...'follow your dreams' and 'no means yes' I want to tell the ladies reading this: that in fact You are a lady and should always expect to be treated as such. We as woman are born with insight, instinct and sensuality that should never be overlooked or put to waste. Each of us are strong by default and built for survival. So never question your ability to "make it" in what ever life you choose. As long as you listen to your instinct, go with your gut and challenge yourself to be your authentic self, each and everyday, you all will be better than fine.

GGotW: What do your sons think of mom the model?
E: Seriously......Keagen,(or Turtle Head) is still a baby,one and a half,so,I haven't heard his views quite yet. lol As far as my oldest goes, Cameron (9 years old) he thinks its a normal job. He is proud of me and happy I'm happy but until I have a shoot with John Cena (a wrestler) he wont be all that impressed. Anyone out there got that kind of connect please email me!


** New image for Year End 2010 from Eileen

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