I paint – I tend more to abstraction – but not as much as I would like to because of time. I would love to do sculpture – I’ve toyed with the idea of fitting in a sculpture course.
I started modeling at 14. It’s simple. You respond to what the photographer wants and wear other people’s ideas. I got bored with it, though, so I went to university.
The narrative of so many fairy tales are timeless in so many different cultures, and they have been since the dawn of man. They represent escapism, but they all feature themes that have such poignancy in a modern world.
I have to admit I’ve always had quite a complex relationship with modeling and with the idea of advertising: not always knowing what I’m advertising and selling.
I have made a living off the way I look, and I have really learnt to accept myself for being unusual.
People do make assumptions about models. That’s their issue, not mine. It doesn’t bother me because I’m comfortable enough in my own skin – I know who I am.
Every time I have to try on a wig for work, I get excited about the colour; I’ve often thought about going for a platinum bob or also raven black, as it looks so great against pale skin. But I always end up being loyal to my red colour.
Talent is crucial. It needs to be driven by motivation, but blind ambition isn’t the key.
Acting is something I’ve done since I was six years old, performing for my mum and my family in the living room, and I do it because my heart’s in it.
Modelling, fashion and film have all encouraged me to learn more about issues and to feel empowered enough to do something about them.
There’s an inherent contradiction between appreciating the beauty of clothes and creativity and individuality, and the waste around the ideas of trends and seasons.
I usually have a lip balm in my bag and mascara as well. I don’t really wear much make-up, but I like mascara because I’ve got fair colouring.
I have set up several businesses as social businesses, and I am a great believer that the power of business should be used for good.
I’ve always cared about issues, always thought through problems. I don’t know how much that comes from my personality or my mum.
When I was younger, I definitely did face anti-ginger prejudice. As a child, all teasing hurts, whether it’s because you’re fat or a different race or have red hair. I had enough comments from a couple of people to make it a sore point.
I love modeling but also see it as a platform for the million other things I want to achieve and create in life.
Giving triggers social cohesion. It’s also the basis for an economy not based on money.
I don’t think of myself as a role model for others, but I like to live my life by my own integrity. So, in that sense, I might be a positive influence. I do believe you should get over your insecurities and just try to be the best you can.
I take my books everywhere. Plane journeys are a good opportunity to study, or also when I’m having my hair done.
I was like most teenagers. I wanted to look more conventional – you know, to just be the pretty girl in school.