Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetle…

NEW YORK CITY – Friday September 9, Jillian Waterman showcased her new clothing line Beetlejuice, in the streets of New York City.

Early in the morning a few of her models gathered in front of Good Morning America dressed in regalia. Later that day the rental house in Brooklyn bustled with 4 makeup artists, 2 hairstylists, 1 photographer and 26 models all preparing to make 1 Fashion Designers dream come true. Waterman made a huge splash, turning the fashion industry upside down making fashion history by doing a fashion for the people fashion show, photoshoot in the streets of New York. Jillian dressed her models to go “out on the town” in packed public places, something unheard of. These coordinated looks were presented to market everyone as a whole, the makeup artist, the designer, the hairstylist, the photographer as well as the models. Jillian’s designs were chosen to be showcased in the 2024 Indigenous Fashion Arts Festival, as well as the Santa Fe Indian Market fashion show. 

Several models traveled for hundreds of miles to join Jillian in New York. The subways in New York were crowded and sometimes extremely hot. Some even traveled into the country from Canada. The Streets of York were filled with people, as well as vendors trying to sell mostly fruit. The excitement of being in the Big Apple was felt by each model taking part in the fashion event. Entering the House where all the models would be staying was exciting.

“You didn’t know what to expect or who you would meet. By the end of the third day all of the models were laughing and dining at the long table in the kitchen as if they were never strangers at all,” said Christopher one of the models from South Dakota.

Several of the models were stranded at the Airport by the end of the trip, so they hoped in a car with two of the other models and drove home together like one big family on a road trip together. This event helped models and artist to network in the streets of New York with other models and artists who they met along the way. The group also met up with Ana Luisa Ajos in Time Square who is a Planetary Activist who supports Indigenous tribes.  

Jillian Waterman, Fashion designer, artist and reality shifter, from the 3 fires nations, enrolled in the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan, also Gun Lake Potawatomi and Odawa bloodlines that cross the Canadian border.

What we did: We did a Fashion Mob and took over the streets of New York. We gathered got runway ready and as a group of 30 plus of not just designer, models and photographers but our group included our some of our families, significant others, (Moms, Dads, Aunties, Grandmas, Sisters and brothers) went out and walked the city stopping to cat walk the sites and take photo shoots. 

Where we held the shoot: We started at Dumbo Brooklyn Bridge View, Subway to Grand Central Station to Times Square.

When we did the shoot: Friday September 8, 2023

Why did you decide to gather all of these models?

The industry is not set up to take care of the community and the people working it. The first time I was invited to Paris Fashion Week I passed because I thought it was a rip off. I didn’t know you had to pay to be a part of these shows. Lol. This time I was invited to do New York Fashion Week by two different companies and after what I’ve seen in the industry I had a very hard time wanting to give them the high costs they charge you to be a part of their shows. For a lot of us. Me included there has been disappointment on photos back and the care taken to take care of our peoples. For all of us to pay to do these shows and not really have much to show for them can make you ask yourself why you’re even doing them and how you are helping your people. I decided that our money would be better spent if we work together. I swallowed my pride and just asked who would be willing to work together to build something we could be proud of. I came up with the idea we’d do a day where if in the worst case scenario we had an amazing day with a huge group of indigenous peoples and some bomb photos that we already won. 

Why did you start designing?

Honestly the pandemic just popped off and I was curious at what I could do. I loved J. Okumas worked but couldn’t afford a piece and wanted to see if I could make something myself. I made a beaded crop top and showed my sister she loved it and told me to put it on Facebook to see if other people liked it and we were off to the races. I was a birch bark canoe builder and had no idea Fashion was coming to scoop me up lol

What do you want to tell future designers who want to pursue a goal such as yours? 

I’d tell them to jump to take the risk if you do you’re already ninety percent ahead of everyone else. Just trying means you’ve already won.

The Enrich Brothers started the Parisian tradition of showing customers the latest collections in 1903. They organized the United States first Fashion Show in their shop titled, “Enrich Brothers”, to lure female customers into this shop. The Enrich Brothers believed that, “You must love fashion, before you begin to create fashionable apparel for other people. Fashion is all about an individual’s identity, and personality.” Fashionweekonline.com

According to gothamist.com. New York Fashion week was called “Press Week” in the 1940’s. On July 19, 1943, the first ever Fashion Week was held. Eleanor Lambert, wanted to showcase fashion to Americans, when French fashion was inaccessible during World War II, “Press Week” promoted American Designers and their creation to the public, 

According to “allartschoos.com” Eleanor Lambert was the press director of the American Fashion Industry. Lambert opened the first promotional organization, The New York Dress Institute. Lambert’s main purpose was to give buyers alternatives, when workers in the fashion industry were unable to go to Paris. 

During World War II Faison shows in Paris were canceled because of Nazi occupation, making it impossible for United States Journalists to travel to France for fashion inspiration, according to glambserver.com.

In the Fashion Industry 22 percent are Males while the other 78 percent are Female models. The American Indian/ Alaskan makeup 0.3 percent of the modeling industry according to “zippia.com” 

Kansas Middletent, Model, Actor – Lower Brule Lakota Tribe, he said “I started modeling I’m 2019 at the Native Fashion in the City event in Denver Colorado during Denver March Powwow. My advice/encouragement is – to step outside your comfort zone and embrace who you are, what you represent, and who you represent. We are all perfectly imperfect.”

Lael Middletent, Model, student-athlete, Kul Wicasa, Lakota nation, she says “I started to model because it had been a dream of mine, and I wanted to show little girls in my community and everywhere else that they can do it too.”

Seneca Skunk, Model, director -mother of 5, Kul Wicasa Oyate. Lakota nation. She said “I started to model because I wanted to embody a positive light & true representation for people. I tell my sisters who are interested in stepping into their power the importance of uplifting themselves no matter what obstacles are thrown in their way. There’s power in positivity & tapping into your higher consciousness.”

 

Simona Bearcub, Model, Afro-Indigenous Advocate, Actress, and Public Speaker from Portland, Oregon. Proudly representing the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux tribes as a citizen, she belongs to the Nakoda, Dakota, and Mono Nations. She says, “I began in the world of modeling, not only to acquire a valuable skill set but also to reconnect with my own body and true presence. As I continue on this path, my ultimate goal is to conquer my imposter syndrome and contribute to reshaping the prevailing beauty standards of our society. I believe that the industry needs more afro-indigenous representation, asserting that we too belong in these spaces. To those who follow in my footsteps, my advice is simple: always believe in yourself. Bring all that is authentically beautiful about who you are and then allow yourself the chance to freely journey towards new experiences and opportunities. I believe in you!”

 

Kirstie Suerte Mattos, Model, Mrs. South Dakota USA Ambassador, House Parent at St. Joseph’s Indians School, from Lockhart Texas originally, currently in Chamberlain SD representing the Taino tribe. She said, “For my kids at St. Joes, to show them that anything is possible and open up opportunities for them to model and design. Do it and be your most authentic self, don’t let anyone stop you from living your dreams.”

Brock Bowen, Model, Houseparent at St. Joseph’s Indian School from South Dakota said, “Why I started modeling, I wanted to represent the 2 spirited and LGBTQ community, showing everyone that we don’t need to be afraid to show how fierce and confident we truly can be when given the space to do so. To the next person modeling, just be yourself and have fun with it.”

 

Zhaawan Sprague, Model, from Grand Rapids Michigan and a member of the Match-E-Be-Nash-E-Wish Gun Lake Tribe of Potawatomi. She said, “I just recently started modeling this year, my first runway was actually with Santa Fe Indian Market in August 2023! My advice to anyone who wants to get into modeling is to just be confident in yourself and who you are and it will take you where you need to go!”

Koltyn Hall, Model, full time student, from crow creek Sioux tribe said, “I started to model to fulfill a lifelong dream and I fell in love with indigenous fashion shows, designers, models and muah artists. We’re like one big family. It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of. I’d tell the next generation to step into their true authentic self and the universe will reward you bigger than your deepest fantasy.”

Tyson Martell, Model, Oskapois Cree tribe treaty 6 “I’m on a healing journey. I’m an Actor as well and do everything to feed my inner child. To inspire anyone to chase their dreams. We walk for those who can’t. Make your ancestors proud. Hay Hay Thank you Jillian Waterman!”

Margaret Faliano, Model, Campaigns Manager, Strategic Communications Strategist, Urban Native, Pacific Northwest, Chippewa Cree Tribe – Montana, She said “I started modeling because Native designers and models are breaking into the fashion industry in ways that we haven’t ever before. Modeling is my way of building power for our Native peoples in these spaces. I love being a part of a mission to build contemporary Native representation. To those who want to model, do it. Modeling is one way to empower yourself, and when you do it with designers that are aligned with your values, you will always walk away stronger & valued.”

Farrah Duncan, Model, from Farmington, New Mexico.She said “I come from the Navajo tribe. I started modeling when I was 21 years old. I got inspired by a family friend who told me that I looked like a model and soon after that I happened to get a lot of modeling opportunities. I enjoy it so much now because I get to highlight indigenous designers’ creations and travel the world and meet indigenous people from everywhere! I would tell someone who wants to start modeling to try it! There’s so many types of modeling. There’s no standards on anything. Have the confidence and get out of your comfort zone to meet new people and experience a whole new world! Anything is possible!”

Danica Miller, Model, Museum director assistant from the Crow creek Sioux tribe (hunkpati oyate) says, “I started modeling because I wanted to love who I was again. I suffered with addiction for 15 years and hated who I was. I wanted to become someone I could be proud of. I wanted to become someone my children, my family could look up to. After 15 years I could finally hold my head high.” To the next person she would like to say, “I would tell the next person that it’s never too late to follow your dreams! Life can change in the blink of an eye. What you’re doing now could drastically change in one year. Take a risk, take a chance, and make a change!”

Stephanie Herrald, Model Cheyenne River Lakota Oyate, She said “I started modeling as a healthy outlet to my sobriety. To set an example for myself and my kids and anyone else who may be experiencing complacency, that no matter what you want to do, it’s never too late.  I would tell the next person who wants to start modeling to never give up. There are many different spirits and identities in the modeling industry. We are all here with different purposes. We are not all the same. You may think you need to “fit in” but in reality bringing your individuality and purpose/confidence is what opens the doors to many opportunities. Go get them.”

 Bishop Alan Davis, Model, Manistee Michigan, Little river band of Ottawa Indians. He said, “I started modeling because I felt like I wanted a platform that I could reach out to other people like me. I just felt like fashion is me and I am fashion. My piece of advice to anyone out there that is thinking about starting modeling is like Nike said JUST DO IT. You’re beautiful inside and out, you just have to make the world listen. Make the world recognize your beauty. You have to belong in every room, that’s not an option.”

Teiokahráthe Herne, Model, Wakskaré:wake (Bear Clan), Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk Nation) – People of the Flint, Hotinonhsión:ni/Haudenosaunee (Iroquois Confederacy) – People of the Longhouse, currently living in Ganienkeh Territory, said “Growing up, culture and tradition were the main focus, so modeling was never an interest of mine. Not until I got older and started stepping into my femininity. Modeling requires a different type of confidence, inner confidence. That I am now ready to embrace. What better way to incorporate all those qualities than through Indigenous fashion! My advice for an aspiring Indigenous model is, go for it, there are no limits! Start somewhere, apply to shows, take professional photos (headshots, full body shots), create a model comp card, and practice your walk! You will learn from each experience along the way. You will meet the most incredible people, creating life-long bonds. Fashion Family is life!”

 Mvhayv Hudson, Model, from the Mvskoke (Creek) Nation in Oklahoma and also a part of Cherokee & Yuchi tribes. She said, “I’ve always had a love for Fashion since a young age. I’m not an official model but if I get an opportunity, I love to take it. If you want to do something or show the slightest interest in something, just try it. Life is too short to worry about what people think about you or stress yourself out. Do what makes you happy.”

Dawn Trapper, Model, Illilew Cree from Moose Cree First Nation, mother, wife, nurse, jingle dress dancer, seamstress & beadwork artist. She said “I became a model because I want to support indigenous designers to reclaim a space in the global fashion industry. To inspire indigenous youth to wear the confidence of our beauty and creativity. To the person who wants to start modeling; do not decline any opportunity. Apply to all model calls, make a comp card, go to fashion shows, support indigenous businesses, buy some heels, and practice your walk & poses. We are the original beauty and fashion of Turtle Island, because of our resilience, we are still here to share with the world”

Sharon L. Patacsil, Model, from RockyBoy Montana, Enrolled in the Chippewa Cree tribe, said, “I started modeling because I love doing my hair, makeup, and taking pictures. It feels good to be in an environment where everyone is so supportive in being extra. I would tell the future models that you don’t need to fit into a mold to start. You are beautiful just as you come and it’s never too late to begin your journey.”

Marlene Pagan, Model, New York State Confidential Special Assistant, Executive Assistant to K.Lookinghorse brand, Manager, Domestic Violence Advocate, said,  “I started actively Modeling last year on Indigenous People’s Day. Dream Big Indigenous Creatives!! Anyone can do this if your heart, mind and soul is in the right place. Get out there and represent!”

Ty Fierce Metteba, Model, Navajo Nation (Deer Springs south of Sawmill, Arizona) said, “I started modeling out muse work for indigenous artists as a way to reclaim not only rhetorical society sovereignty, but also visual sovereignty over our images and narratives. If you empower yourself by knowing the difference between confidence and pride, then you can distinguish fragile mindsets from truly sensitive and astute people with composure. Jillian Waterman gave me a chance to be able to decide my own visual sovereignty — it’s not fast fashion, it’s first fashion!” 

Sabrina Stewart, South Dakota, Main photographer for the Photo Shoot, said, “I started doing photography because one of my siblings wanted to erase me from our family history and destroyed everything about my childhood in a fire, for that reason memories became extremely important to me. I was also able to use the pictures to escape from the hard times I was going through. I would just look at the pictures and imagine I was back there at that moment. I would tell anyone thinking about getting into photography that it’s a great way to hold onto memories or share the way you see the world with others, it’s such an amazing way to express yourself.”

Christopher Alexander Piña, Model, T.V. Actor, said, “I started Modeling because I wanted to stand in a position for people to see me. Being present in the modeling world is important because I represent for my Sanding Rock HunkPapa tribe, I am a water Protector. I represent for the Boys with Braids Movement, as well as the MMiW movement. I want to teach people that there is room for everyone, you can be in hair, makeup, clothing design, photography you don’t have to be in the spotlight to be part of the production. To the next person who would like to be a model, remember to look up and hold your head high and be proud. Take up as much space as possible! Always show up and Believe in yourself! Dream Big!”

 

 Otakwan Acahkos Iskwiw, (Evening Star woman), Model, Mother, Land defender, Matriarch, Anthropologist, from Saskatchewan and is part of the Métis Nation (Otipemisiwak). She said, “When I was first approached to model, it was something I had to really sit back and think about. Coming from a small village in the North, I grew up traditionally and spent most of my time on the land. The fashion world was something I used to dream about as a child, eagerly going to the library every lunch to scan through all the newest magazines. Flipping the pages and imagining I was a part of that creative world. I grew up without much, my dreams were all I had.  Now here I am, living those dreams every day.  I am beyond thankful that I took that first step into an environment where we get to showcase the impactful power we have on each other and the world. A place we are free to be who we really are, and watch our kin thriving. It’s our responsibility to carry out Nations with pride everywhere we go. We are still here. On our journey dream as big as possible and then dream bigger. Modeling in the Native world becomes one big family, full of support and love. It’s a beautiful community to be a part of. Be as present as possible in every moment to draw inspiration, above all be unique, be yourself and you will shine so bright.”

 Kamryn Whiteye (Takwaxkwe), Model, Indigenous Advocate/Public Speaker, currently living in Ontario, Canada, from the Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit: Delaware Nation, said, I would tell the next person that wants to start modeling to just go for it. Do not let beauty standards, outward opinions define you. You are the only voice that matters. Be confident and love yourself. Everything that we need is already within us, we just need to. I started modeling because I noticed the lack of representation of Lunaapeew in the fashion industry. We have one fluent speaker of the language in our community (Canada) and our ceremonies are located outside of the community. The youth are healing intergenerational trauma and creating healthy, prosperous communities. I am a part of this change. I am here because I want the little girls in my community to know that we can walk in both worlds. We can model, go to school, work a 9-5 job and still, walk in a good way, learning and seeking our teachings. We just need to honour those gifts. I am a lunaaapeexkwe (Delaware Woman) walking on the same lands that my ancestors were removed from. It is healing to flaunt my existence on Lenapehoking traditional lands. We are still here and we are thriving. “

 Vanessa Taveras, Makeup Artist, PRO MUA / student from Brooklyn, Not tribe affiliated, she said, “I started doing makeup because I love seeing my clients face after I make them feel more confident and beautiful. Makeup gives room for creativity and an open space to be yourself from simply enhancing my clients features to even making them whoever they want to be. My advice to the next person is to take the risk and the leap of trying looks and techniques that you’ve never tried before, because your skill and talent has no limits.”

Niez Aguirre, Lead MUA, Makeup Artist From: Southern California Tribe, said “I am Apache but not tribal affiliated. I started makeup to embrace the creativity that flows in my family. Before I did makeup, I was an avid painter. Makeup artistry is a modern day warpaint, I love making people feel empowered by the artistry. Keep doing what you love and be humble as your makeup journey grows.”

(Contact Christopher Pińa at staffwriter3@nativesunnews.today)

 

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