Anok Yai, the South Sudanese American model who has graced the covers of major fashion magazines and walked the runways of renowned designers, reveals a side beyond the glamorous world of fashion in an interview for Harper’s Bazaar.
Standing before Kerry James Marshall's Untitled (Studio) at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, Yai's appreciation for art shines through. She describes her love for paintings that evoke a sense of intrusion, drawing parallels between her experiences as a model and the captivating allure of Marshall's work.
But Yai isn't just a model; she's also an artist. Self-taught in oil painting, she embarked on a personal journey of self-expression, capturing her evolution over the past six years alongside her skyrocketing modeling career. From her groundbreaking Prada show to becoming the face of Mugler's fragrance Alien Hypersense, Yai's success hasn't eclipsed her passion for art.
In the midst of her whirlwind career, Yai finds solace in creativity. Whether it's sketching on hotel pillowcases during downtime or immersing herself in painting portraits of friends like singer Daniel Caesar, art remains an integral part of her identity. Her friendship with fellow model Mona Tougaard blossomed over a shared love for art and humor, creating moments of laughter amidst the glamour of the fashion industry.
Despite her meteoric rise, Yai remains grounded, embracing moments of introspection and exploration. Stepping back from the spotlight, she embarked on a residency at artist Kehinde Wiley's retreat in Dakar, Senegal, immersing herself in a month-long journey of self-discovery and artistic expression.
Yai's presence transcends the glitz and glamor of high fashion. Clad in a pink beanie and a delicately embroidered bomber jacket, she reflects on the contrast between her museum visit and the extravagant Met Gala appearances. For her, beauty is more than skin deep—it's a reflection of personal growth, artistic expression, and a journey of self-discovery. /BGNES