Models & Muses; Minh-Ly
Meet Minh-Ly, the nomadic art model from Canada now calling France home. In our recent chat, she shared her artistic journey driven by a deep connection with people, surroundings, and herself.
For Minh-Ly, modeling is an authentic expression, defying conventional standards. She champions the idea that staying true to oneself can triumph over societal norms.
Enjoy!
Minh-Ly
Who are you, where are you from, and what is it that you do?
Hi, I'm Minh-Ly! I'm a travelling art model originally from Canada and living in France.
Why do you do what you do, and what is it that you are most passionate about?
When I first started modelling, I felt in my guts that creating with my whole being was what I was supposed to do. I am most passionate about connecting with people, surroundings and myself.
Is there something you have learned about yourself or society because of the work you do?
I learned that I didn't need to fit with the current standards to realise my projects and dreams - that I could create myself and stay authentic despite many odds.
Who is your favourite photographer you worked with, and why?
I don't have a favorite photographer, to be honest (even after working with hundreds of them). I try to treat everyone as equals human beings with their own artistic sensibilities. Even though, I may connect with some more with others, there's no competition in my mind.
Which model do you admire the most or has been an example or mentor to you and why?
Irina Lozovaya (@aireenel_2) and Nausica Yaami (@nausicaa_yami_) are the two models I admire the most. I find them really unique, intriguing and touching.
They speak to me artistically more than my poor English can do.
What are your top three do's or don'ts that a photographer must to be mindful of, when working with you (or other models)?
Do - Always respect model's boundaries. No is no, Maybe is not a yes. No judgement on whatever the models don't feel comfortable with.
Do - Include the model in the artistic process. A photograph is not a work done alone and we should be humble about it. It's a Collaboration between two (or more) artists.
Don't - Compare the model you have in front of you with another. "Oh she did this, but you can't do that. She has this, but you don't.", etc. Photographers sometimes forget to create an inviting and comfortable environment/bubble and say intentionally/unintentionally things that can hurt or make their subjects insecure resulting in a negative experience and awkward pictures.