So I'd be lying if I didn't tell you that I have the biggest girl crush on Rachel Dashae. Her work is consistently eye-catching and beautiful. What's more is that once I started to ask her those tough abstract questions, she took on the challenge and beautifully worded the responses. This girl is a true model - oh and don't get me started on that wicked hair!
When did you first start modeling? What drew you into it?
I first started modeling in 2006; I took breaks off and on, and then became full time in 2010. I wanted to become a different person; I wanted an outlet for my creative spirit.
Why did you want to be a different person?
It's like acting; it's like growing out of your skin. But in a good way, haha. Like this other person coming through your eyes and expressions. I want to own the demons, the lust, the happiness, the love inside of me, and sometimes I feel like throwing that out in front of a camera makes you appreciate it.
How does modeling help you do that?
It lets me see the end result of my emotions, and how I am putting it into my art.
What is it about modeling that strikes your creative spirit?
I get to be a part of someone's vision. They come up with these ideas, concepts, styling, and I get to act it out for them.
What was the moment you realized it was something you wanted to keep doing?
Ever since I started. I would stop sometimes, but I would come crawling back shortly after. It's been the only thing that has stayed consistent in my life for 5 years now.
What are you trying to express through your work? Do you think you've accomplished it?
Vulnerability, high emotion, and staying fierce and proud. Telling a story with movement and eyes, instead Yes, that is the one thing I always feel proud about when looking at an image, just how I can show anything that has been pent up for weeks through an image.
How did you find out about Zivity? What sold you on joining?
Dastardly Dave actually told me about it! And it was before I was doing nude work, so I was very excited for it.
You've build a strong fan base both on and off of Zivity - how do you connect with them? How have they influenced your work?
I try to comment back on any posts, comments, e-mails, etc. I try to actually build a connection and speak with them with truth. I feel like people then think of you as a person they can relate to. They have influenced me to keep going no matter what. Like I have said, I stopped a few times, sometimes I think I would've permanently quit if it wasn't for my fan base. They make my work feel worth it, even if I am being tough on myself.
Is there anything a fan has ever said to you that has stuck with you? If so, what?
There have been lots of things. Ever since the first "You are so pretty!" comment most things stick with me. I think what sticks with me the most though, is when people tell me the story they say see in my eyes, or in my hands. It's so awesome that I can inspire someone in that way.
What is the craziest/funniest thing that has ever happened to you on a shoot?
One time, I was on some railroad tracks (haha), that were on an overpass over a pretty main road. I dropped one of my shoes in that little sneaky bend part between the columns. I actually climbed down into the crack (sliding on my butt down rails, haha!) to get my shoe. They were like $5 dollar shoes, but it was really muddy out because it had just rained and the thought of possibly breaking my leg was better than having to walk barefoot through the mud!
You travel quite a bit! What was one of the most exciting trips you've made? Describe your experience!
I try! This year will come along with much more traveling. One of the most exciting though I think was to Boston with PXE. Her and I just get along sssooo well; I flew into NYC, and met her. Which was just fun in general, we stayed up all night drinking soda and playing around. The next day we drove to Boston, and the whole trip was way fun. I also think it was a blast because it was just on a whim, I think I had a week to plan anything, haha.
Is there anything else you're passionate about besides modeling? If so, what and why?
That's a tough one. I put so much into modeling, so I feel like maybe my other passions are photos (I just got a new digital camera, so look out for some pictures), fashion, and learning. I love to read about any subject from "the fattest country in the world" to "black holes".
What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
I love hanging out with my family. I am very family oriented; I am the oldest of 5 and am extremely close to my mother. I spend a lot of my extra time with them and my boyfriend. Other than that, I like to exercise (mostly yoga), read, and hang out with friends. I frequent clubs on the weekends and LOVE to go out and have some fun! I feel like sometimes I'm a dirty house wife and no one realizes it, haha!
Can't get enough of Rachel? Check out
her Deviantart. She's also on
Twitter!
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