F U
L issue one
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CONTENTS
EDITOR’S LETTER Page 1
PHOTOSHOOT: ANARCHIC Page 2
PHOTOSHOOT: TRANSITION Page 14
INTERVIEW: RAHKELA
INTERVIEW: ADELE THIEL
Page 8
Page 20
INTERVIEW: KITA ALEXANDER Page 28
TRAVEL DIARY: COUNTRY Page 26
TRAVEL DIARY: CITY Page 27
SUMMER READS Page 29
EDITOR’S LETTER:
Welcome to the debut of Flux – our movement. We wanted this magazine to be primarily focused on acknowledging the exceedingly large power the youth have accumulated today – in particular, the growing power of Australians. Nationalism aside, the youth over the years, has created a significant position within our generation today and have demanded for us to listen to their presence. Using this zine and hearing their call, our aim was to pursue this notion as far as we could – contacting talented young Australians on their journey to the top of their fields in Music, Photography and Fashion. In doing so, we have met a handful of sweet and talented artists, rising superior and pitched to lead in the creative industry soon enough. There’s Kita Alexander (p.28) - an astounding singer/ songwriter serenading her fans with her folksy/indie charm at just seventeen. Rahkela (p.8), a photographer whose images exude colour and vibrancy, just like her beautiful personality. And last but certainly not least, Adele Thiel (p.20), a double threat as a fashion design graduate skilled in both printmaking and modelling. We never expected our interview candidates to be all female and all under the age of 23 - proof that our youth are defying odds and breaking to a large audience with welcome arms. I hope that these three women bring inspiration to pursue your own talents and wishes for the futures! (As sappy as that sounds) Included with the aforementioned interviews in this little zine of ours are a culmination of photoshoots, Summer reads and little Travel Diary for the wanderers. Flux is all about exploring, discover and utilizing wanderlust. Feel free to share with us your favourite local artists, films, places for a bite to eat - anything! Thank you very much for reading.
- Amanda Chan 1
ANARCHIC Rebellion, chaos, turmoil - this girl does it all. Clad in a range of black textures and a fury of emotions, grunge and glamour clash together in a rage in this studio shot editorial.
IMAGE CREDITS Stylist: Amanda Chan Model: Serena @ AVA Model Management Photographer: Richard Hedger Hair & Make Up: Desi Tijioe
Black Poncho by Chevaun Ho, Black Assymetric Dress by Chevaun Ho (worn underneath), Black Stockings by Target (ripped by stylist), Silver Chain Necklaces by Lovisa, Silver Thick Cuffs by Lovisa, Gold Cuffs by Diva, Grey Crystal Ear Cuff by Lovisa, Stylist’s own shoes.
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Black Mesh Dress by Chevaun Ho, White Skirt by Chevaun Ho, Leather Vest by Topshop, Leather Harness by General Pants Co., Silver Thick Cuffs by Lovisa, Gold Cuffs by Diva, Grey Crystal Ear Cuff by Lovisa, Studded Heels by Lipstik.
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Black Velvet Top by Chevaun Ho, Black Velvet Skirt by Chevaun Ho (worn underneath), Black Stockings by Target (ripped by stylist), Black Leather Harness by General Pants Co., Silver Thick Cuff by Lovisa, Silver Ring by Sportsgirl, Studded Heels by Lipstik.
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PHOTOGRAPHY: RAHKELA Rachella Nurdella, 21, hailing from Glebe is one talented Photographer. Her beautiful, vibrant images are what got us to find her in the first place - full of exuberance, colour and a new perspective on seeing the world. We picked her brain from her aspirations, Tavi Gevinson and advice for any budding Rahkelas. What or who was it that inspired you to take photographs? It was initially a hobby as my father had bought me my first SLR when I was 1718. I had a friend who was a photographer, Kyle, he urged me to pursue it as a career and was incredibly helpful in those days when I was first starting out. I feel like the ‘Rahkela’ trademark in an image is full of colour, vibrancy, fun and youth - does that relate to who you are? I would like to think, yes, the world in which I create is certainly a representation of myself. These days, obviously, everyone can afford a camera and everybody is a “photographer”. The photographer’s that I look up to, or anyone with creative ability to not only capture something or create an artwork but, create in a way that is a representation of themselves, that’s something you can’t buy. It’s truly special when people relate to the world in which you create. Your latest work ‘4eva’ features really raw and beautiful images in what seems like roaming around abandoned graffitied buildings, wire fences and a cute boy and girl wearing matching Converse. What was the concept behind it? Thank you! The concept was very simple, the relationship between two ‘rebel youths’ and their secret hideaway. My favourite shoot that I’ve done thus far has to be “Suburban Kaleidoscope” Off topic... I hope you don’t mind. It was a complete representation of how far I could project my ridiculous ideas into reality and somehow pull off. It was collaboration with some of my most talented friends! What would be your ideal scenario to photograph if you could get your hands on anything? Oh goodness! The possibilities are endless... Anything that involves Tavi (Rookie) Petra Collins and Outer Space would be something out of this world. Excuse the pun.
All images taken by Rachella Nardella
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I saw on your Instagram that you were able to go see Tavi(?!!?!) at the Sydney Opera House in August - how was that experience? Yes! It was incredible to see her in real time. Haha. I was a few feet from her at the end when she was signing autographs and I have never felt more nervous or excited to see a 17 year old girl! She is my hero. Compare yourself from five years ago. How far have you come? Well for one, I’m no longer a teenager. I am so happy those days are over! Again on the topic of Tavi, where was she when I was 15!? I think life would have been a whole lot sweeter. Considering five years ago that the realm of photography wasn’t even a thought in my mind, I was always stuck in books and wanted to study literature. I only recently graduated with a Diploma in Graphic Design as I wanted to expand my skill set, I mean, If you were to tell me this is where I would be five years ago today, I never would have believed you. Does that really answer the question!? I’m not sure. Haha. Now project yourself into the future, where do you see yourself in five years time? I hope to have my own studio somewhere in Europe, preferably London. That’s the dream. I don’t see myself sticking to just one thing, though I love photography and only just branching out into the world of design, when you’re a creative there are so many different world’s to explore and dip your feet in. I’m thrilled by the endless array of possibilities in store.
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symphonyofcolours.blogspot.com.au
Can you give us your favourite spots to hang out/chill/visit in Australia? Blue Mountains, Leura Everglades. It is the closest place I have found to Narnia! I love heading out of the city and up to where the air is sweeter and the days seem longer. It’s so magical up there. Locally I prefer sitting on my roof with friends or heading down to local cafe’s. Anywhere preferably that I can ride my bike to, is swell too. Last question, any advice for those wishing to dip their feet in the world of Photography? I’ll never forget in the early days starting out, my mentor and friend who I always ran to for advice and asking countless times to borrow equipment, ha. Having someone who you admire willingly to help you along your journey, will help exponentially. Also, never think an idea too crazy or impossible. The best shoots I’ve ever worked on have stemmed from an idea in my mind, however whacky it’s been and with very little budget.
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TRANSITION
For those crazy days when the sun’s shining but the wind blows your bones cold. We mixed and matched some pieces to tie you over until beach season arrives.
IMAGE CREDITS Stylist: Amanda Chan Model: Lisa @ AVA Model Management Photographer: Amanda Make Up: Josephine Garcia
Cream Knit Jumper by Quirky Circus, Black Pleather Moto Jacket by Miss Shop, Iridescent Stone Necklace by Sportsgirl, Black Corduroy Circle Skirt by American Apparel
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Grey Cotton Tank Top by Miss Shop Essentials, Pink Stone Necklace by Sportsgirl, Black Disco Pants by American Apparel, Grey Sloppy Joe by Bonds, Model’s own shoes.
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Black/Cream Striped Knit Throw by Sportsgirl, Model’s own dress, Model’s own dress, necklace and shoes.
Mint Knit Jumper by All About Eve, Grey Cotton Tank by Miss Shop Essentials (worn underneath), Model’s own rings.
FASHION: ADELE THIEL
A double threat possessing talents in both Fashion Design and Modelling, Adele Thiel, 23 from Sydney, is one to watch in breaking the fashion industry. Her printmaking skills are well - see for yourself. These images from her graduate collection speak more than a thousand words. You started out in the modelling industry and since then have transitioned into the world of Fashion Design. What or who inspired you to pursue this change? I have always wanted to be heavily involved in the fashion industry and have had a passion for both modelling and design. Being involved in Australia’s Next Top Model in 2009 also inspired me to take up design through meeting Alex Perry and numerous other iconic Australian Designers. I wanted to learn about all aspects of the industry! How do you juggle both wearing the garments and creating them? It is actually very interesting because a lot of the time I can fit all of my garments too myself whilst in the designing process. It allows me to understand the garments as both a designer and a consumer. However, at the moment Design is my main focus and modelling is on hold whilst I finish the last of my honours degree.
Back in 2009, You also came 4th in the Fifth Cycle of Australia’s Next Top Model. Does that show still affect you today? Not particularly, however it has definitely set me up with some amazing contacts in the industry, which I am very thankful for. I think my background gives me a point of difference as a designer through my extensive experience in the industry from multiple different angles. I understand the whole design process, how to present the garments as a model, art direction and networking in photo shoots and being the consumer. The show was a fantastic experience and it let me understand the cut throat nature of the industry and the dedication that is required to make things happen.
IMAGE CREDITS Photographer: Emily Abay www.emilyabay.com Make-up & Hair: Amelia Axton @ Reload Agency Fashion: Adele Thiel www.adelethiel.com Model: Claire Jones @ Chic Management
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You study primarily at the University of Technology in Sydney, but have also received an eduction abroad at the renowned Central Saint Martins College in London, where it’s Fashion & Textile alumni (e.g. Alexander McQueen, Phoebe Philo, Mary Katrantzou, etc.) construct an extensive amount of the industry’s leading designers today. How has studying CSM affected your perspective in terms of design and construction? I did a course in Print Design at CSM, which brought about my love for creating prints and patterns. It was the perfect place to study print and textiles as my all-time favourite designer is Mary Katrantzou. I started to see the world in a new way – everywhere I went I would be admiring textures and patterns whilst taking photos and wondering how I could turn them into large scale prints. I would love to go back to London and do some more studies at Central Saint Martins in the future as it was such a positive experience. I see you’ve dabbled in the world of menswear a little bit. How was designing for the male audience in contrast to womenswear? It was very interesting and it was something that I actually enjoyed quite a bit! Menswear is a lot simpler in regards to garment form and is all about the finer details, which fits in perfectly with my aesthetic. I love clean-cut tailoring with a contemporary edge, which I try to apply when designing womenswear. Womenswear is often perceived to be a lot more adventurous and has fewer restrictions than menswear.
Your graduate collection is almost completed, and about to be debuted to the world. Congratulations! From the previews I’ve seen so far, it seems like a collection of beautiful gradients and intricate prints. What was the concept behind it? Thank you! My collection was based on my trip to the Palace of Versailles, France. I was inspired by all the textures and baroque imagery in the palace and took thousands of pictures of macro and micro details, which I then turned into textile prints. I started to notice parts of the palace that were worn and beginning to decay which inspired the collection name Kalopsia, which means “the delusion of things being more beautiful than they really are”. I researched the excessive and frivolous nature of Mary Antoinette who once inhabited the palace and her rebellious nature underneath the portrayed image of perfection. The collection appears to be quite beautiful and luxurious on first glance through the baroque motifs however this is then contrasted with images of peeling walls, rusting wooden doors and moulded floors. Do you have any plans or goals for the future once you have graduated? My ultimate goal is to have my own label in the future. In the mean time I would like to possibly move overseas and get an internship, apply for competitions or potentially work for another fashion label. In retrospect, do you have any advice for those who wish to try out modelling and/or fashion design? Determination is key – you have to be certain that it is what you want and take every opportunity that is thrown at you. It is more of a life choice than just a job.
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TRAVEL DIARY: COUNTRY
The Blue Mountains, NSW Definitely ideal for escaping the hustle & bustle of the city and to see the stars light up the sky. Back in July, we drove in a pack of 10 to a house resting at the the top of Mount Victoria, taking turns in pairs at cooking for the group each night. Our two week escape consisted of little trips into towns such as Leura, seeing the sights of the Three Sisters at sunset, girl talks on bush walks, LOTR reenactments on bushwalks, watching the boys do slides on their longboards, running through the cold Winter and into the boiling outdoor spa, streaming Sailor Moon episodes, playing childish games with a little too much wine and cider in us and all in all making memories that would stick with us when we’re all grown up.
TRAVEL DIARY: CITY
Melbourne City, VIC We flew just us two, for Melbourne in early October. With just 72 hours and a hotel room in the CBD - we went exploring as much as we could via different modes of transport: on foot each morning to grab some breakfast at another laneway cafe, on bike from the Docklands to where James Packer’s shiny Crown Casino welcomed us always, and even one accidental stop on a tram to visit the crocodile and the penguins at the aquarium. Melbourne is most definetely great for all you foodies out there, but we also made late night trips to the supermarket to stock up our bar fridge with snacks. In conjunction with food, it’s also a prime location to walk through Collins St and meet a graffiti artist on your way to Bourke St Mall - where shops surround you left, right and centre. I wish we could’ve explored further outside the CBD, but that just means we have to go back!
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MUSIC:
KITA alexander
As our youngest artist featured in Flux zine at just 17 - Kita Alexander is a talented singer/songwriter from Port Macquarie. An emerging artist on Triple J’s Unearthed - she’s charming everyone who has listened to her live at spontaneous shows or from her lyrical tracks on the Lion Hat EP. Meet her below. What or who inspired you to become a musician? Any advice to those who wish to My sister pursue music? Charge it and don’t stop, peoWhat was the story behind your ple will see your passion and join debut EP, ‘Lion Hat’ you. Also play as much live as I saw a picture in a magazine of you can. a girl wearing a lion on her head Out of the whole of Australia, I see that you are one of the acts what are your favourite places? performing at the ‘Festival of the I haven’t been to the whole of Sun’ in December! Congratula- Australia, but so far Forster tions! How are you feeling about it? Have you made any prepara- What you see in five years time? tions for it yet? The year 2018 Yeah thanks, should be rad. Oh not really I’ll probably leave it till What’s your latest obsession? last minute and then freak out. Maton guitars
Buy KITA’s ‘Lion Hat EP’ @ www.bigwoolly.com/kitaalexander
Whats the best thing about touring and playing live? Meeting heaps of cool people and sharing my passion with everyone. Has being on social media helped you a lot as a young artist? Yeah Definitely, such a good avenue to take no matter what you’re involved in 28
IMAGE CREDITS Images taken by photographer Brett Rukowski @ www.brettrutkowski.com
SUMMER READS
‘It’ by Alexa Chung
‘Palo Alto’ by James Franco
Take all you know so far from James Franco - and throw it out the window. ‘Palo Alto’ is a series of short stories accumulated into one book and exhibits Franco’s hardwork. Comprising of a unknowingly complex amoutn of knowledge on the teenage psyche - Franco writes cohesively in regards to the emotions and toils of being a teenager. From teen angst and anxiety, drugs and alcohol and even conveying the great ‘It’ essentially divulges into the naivety we all held once as a brain of one of Britain’s most teen - Franco does it all and stylish women today, and has does it well. made us fall in love with Alexa A great read on public transChung all over again, port travels to shock you and A perfect read to sit in the cor- tie up all your emotions in a ner of a coffee shop all day knot before you even reach long. Don’t forget your post-it your stop. notes for all that inspiration. The book itself is a culmination of 21st Century ‘It-girl’ Alexa Chung’s retrospective of life so far - in the many forms of photographs, drawings and words that remind us so that we’re all equally human in the end. In it you’ll find reminiscent memories of growing up, advice on a range of topics spanning from coping with heartbreak to discussing the challenges when taking a ‘selfie’.
RRP $29.99
RRP $19.95
‘The Fault In Our Stars’ by John Green This book: home to quite a few beautiful quotes we can add into our own every day lives. Your typical teen romance novel between two cancer patients on remission, when a plot twist occurs and flips whatever intentions you had for the novel into a spiralcase. Similar to Jodi Picoult’s famed novel plot twists, but in a more relatable manner for the young adult audience. Green’s characters are so bold, witty and courageous – it’s easy enough to fall in love with them throughout thick and thin. Most definetely a beach or backyard read for the Summer. So easy to get back on the story and the characters.
RRP $24.95
THANK YOU x FLUX ZINE