Our journey to meet Moussa Sanogo began in the Electric Brasserie on Portobello road. As he enters the restaurant everyone cant help but notice him, his handsomeness is only accentuated by the cool rhythm of his strut. Its not hard to believe that he has modeled for the likes of John Galliano, Jean Paul Gaultier and his ultimate favorite Sir Paul Smith whose campaign he was the face of in 2009 Spring/ Summer collection. After taking care of the formalities we sit down to begin the interview, he quickly suggests that his apartment (which is around the corner) would be a more relaxing environment. On our way to his apartment we couldn't help but snap up a series for a ' Sanogo street photoshoot'
His favorite moment with Paul Smith:
photography: The AbsoluteMan
photography: The AbsoluteMan
photography: The AbsoluteMan
Having reached his apartment, he motioned for us to take a seat in the kitchen (full of his own art work that oozes his personality), it quickly became apparent that he is not just another 'pretty face'. While he fiddles with the computer we began to ask questions.
How did you start modeling?
I was approached on the metro in Paris for a film casting. At the casting I met a photographer who became a good friend of mine, he began to photograph me all the time, which gave me a portfolio that I sent a modeling agency called "Click", who took me on straight away.
My first shoot was with a magazine called Wad in 2004.
Meanwhile I snap images of his artsy flat
His paintings ..
His personality..
His portfolio ..
What was your greatest modeling experience?
In 2009 Paul Smith designed a collection for Mick Jagger in Paris and I was modeling for it. It was amazing because I got to meet Paul Smith who went on to be my mentor and friend.
Is modeling your only passion?
A. No, I love to paint and I am part of a band called "Les Pigments Libres" - I play the harmonica and I beat-box on the tracks. I really enjoy performing.
Paul Smith outfit
Have you ever been to the middle east and would you ever model there?
No I have never been to the middle east but I'd love to visit Lebanon as I've heard great things about it. Soon I'll be working with Ahmed bel Hassani, a Moroccan designer who I met in Paris.
Does it offend you to hear the stereotype that male models are dumb?
People who say that are stupid, you can't judge someone before taking the time to talk to them. However, some models have been unfriendly and cold.
Where do you see yourself in the future?
Everywhere, I don't want to be in one place, I want to travel the world and experience every country; the art and music of their cultures.
If you could change anything about the modeling industry, what would it be?
I would change the mentality of the designers - I feel they still discriminated against minorities and are sometimes reluctant to hire from different races.
After spending an afternoon with Mr Sanogo it becomes apparent that all the glitz and glamor of the modeling world has not seduced him. As he put it "i go to the parties cause we have to go". He is passionate about his friends, his art and his music as a result It is clear that he is ready for the next adventure wherever it may lead him.
image from GQ.com - John Galliano SS 2006
Moussa with Sir Paul Smith - image from olegcovian.com
Moussa with Sir Paul Smith
His favorite moment with Paul Smith:
4 comments:
I do agree Moussa has a beautiful and open-minded mind in a terrific enveloppe. It's good to see guys breaking the clichés!! I'd like to see more black models!!
Did you notice that he was the only one?
keep aiming thz sky, dude.
Fondly
Marie
Moussa is not only beautiful to look at - but I have seen into his heart - and believe me, there he is so filled with love, his empathy is so big and his kindness is so hugh. A seldom warm personality - and a gift to meet and having as a friend :0)
<3 Hanne
bien jouer mon moussa!
yes bro plane au dessus du lot et continue comme ca . adam dit sir uzi
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