Nude modelling
Added 2023-03-28 18:26:03 +0000 UTCI started my modelling career when I was 18. It sounds scary but 16 years I still occasionally take modelling gigs. Since the very first time in front of the camera, it felt natural and easy. I loved being vulnerable and emotive, I loved the physical challenge, I loved trying out new roles. But I also was very naive when I started, full of insecurities and ambitions, I wanted to get out of my provincial little town in the middle of Ukraine. I wanted attention and admiration. And as much as my family cared for me, I wasn't really protected by my parents and was making decisions on my own. A perfect prey for predators that modelling world is swarming with.
All in all I consider myself lucky, because modelling experience could have, but haven't broken me.
Yes, I was subjected to harassment, but I was never physically harmed or threatened. Yes, I I have been objectified, but I avoided industries that would have probably been detrimental to my mental health, like erotic/fetish websites, porn, prostitution, etc. Yes, I was body shamed and suffered from eating disorders, but I am now fully recovered and love my body the way it is. Yes, I was shamed for my nude work, yet I find pride in it now.
In the industry that is such a slippery slope, I managed not only to survive, but to grow, develop my own artistic vision, find my strength. I know the difference between objectification and appreciation of the naked body. I know how vulnerable, yet how powerful naked body can be.
If I had a daughter, I would try hard to prevent her from taking this career path. And still I am grateful for my journey, and where I am now thanks to it.
And it is modelling that brought me to sculpture eventually, which I consider the love of my life.
