RODRIGO TACTAQUIN

KENNETH LYTLE @kennethlytlephotography // ADAM FIERRO JEWElRY @adamfierro

KENNETH LYTLE @kennethlytlephotography // ADAM FIERRO JEWElRY @adamfierro

Loud&Clear caught up with inspiring actor and model, Rodrigo Tactaquin.

With a humble spirit, he is truly on a path to greatness.

KENNETH LYTLE @kennethlytlephotography // ADAM FIERRO JEWElRY @adamfierro

When did you first get involved in the film and modeling industry?

I was cast as a background actor in the movie The Lone Ranger (2013) in August of 2012. Although I had performed in the theatrical arts, it was my first introduction to a large movie production. Moreover, the background cast was accommodated at locations that were quite unique and special. Because we were located in remote locations, we would engage with the crew after hours and get a deeper view into the inner-workings of a production. Many of the crew had come from Philadelphia after working on Dark Knight. My first engagement was very educational and enjoyable.

I really don’t consider myself a model. I love the art form of photography and have had the pleasure of knowing some very talented photographers. On the surface it can be confusing given the fact that I have modeled for designers and merchants. Additionally, I have walked the runway a few times. I think that those are some of the opportunities that I have taken full advantage of. Whether it makes the cover of a magazine or coffee table book or just a social media post to bring visibility to a talented photographer, I am content to simply make something creative and capture the image in time. My first experience was created from working on a movie. The DP (Director of Photography) was a Master Photographer. He approached me and asked me if I would be open to a photo shoot. We created some significant images and it opened the door to many opportunities. I learned early to be very selective of who I allow to photograph me. The photographer has to be very talented and you have to be careful of predators. I also think it’s important that you don’t dilute your brand by shooting with too many photographers and flood the social media conduit. I do donate my time to promising Native American photographers in hopes that it elevates their opportunities in the art world.

Your desire to follow your calling has to be stronger than all the obstacles and naysayers. Owning your power is important. If you don’t own your power, it would be very difficult to pursue a career in the arts.

What or Who inspired you to pursue such a competitive career?

I was an “Only Child” growing up. I think the solitary life directed me to fall in love with movies of the 1960’s and 1970’s. I remember watching Dustin Hoffman and Alan Arkin and feeling that their abilities were remarkable despite the fact that they didn’t have the stereotypical “hero” looks. I had the honor and pleasure of working on the TV series Get Shorty (Season 1 - EPIX) that was directed by Adam Arkin. It was a profound moment for me when his dad Alan came to visit and Adam introduced me. Despite these experiences, however, deep down you have to decide that pursuing the arts is your calling. Your desire to follow your calling has to be stronger than all the obstacles and nay-sayers. Owning your power is important. If you don’t own your power, it would be very difficult to pursue a career in the arts.

I’m sure you have met many talented A-List Actors/Celebrities along the way. Please share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

I worked on a movie Woman Walks Ahead with Jessica Chastain and Sam Rockwell and Michael Greyeyes. When Sam was at basecamp and not on set, we would sometimes throw empty aluminum cans out and practice lassoing. Sam is a very genuine and nice human.

At the time, the dance had not been performed for 70 years. The production obtained permission and blessing from Pine Ridge elders and they sent their drummers to perform. We practiced this dance under the direction of Michael Greyeyes. On the evening of the shoot, we set up aged looking teepees with bonfires out on the prairie. What was unexpected was that there was a Super Moon. We performed the Ghost Dance for the scene and it was an experience I will never forget.

How has your acting evolved since you first became involved in the Film Industry?

I have followed Jeff Bridges since Thunderbolt and Lightfoot (1974). Then I had the fortune of working on Only the Brave with Josh Brolin and Jeff Bridges. I was in awe of Jeff Bridges’ maturity and ability to resonate his character. I think that given time and opportunity we evolve in this way. They call it “Sitting in the Saddle”. I think that I learn each time how to “Sit in the Saddle” better. The goal and desire is to master one’s craft.

What films/tv shows have you been involved in?

In total, all the current work I have done is 19 Movies (some are Short Films) and 4 TV Series. Most notable projects would be Movies: The Lone Ranger, Only the Brave, Woman Walks Ahead and TV Series: Longmire, Get Shorty, and Night Shift. I am often asked when certain projects will be released. If I was hired as an actor I am unaware of the release. The producers and marketing have a lot to do with that. If I work as a producer or a casting director I would typically know when the projects get released (or shelved).

What notable fashion shows have you been involved in?

I’d like to expound on this question because I have participated in SWAIA Fashion and the Santa Fe Fashion Show before. However, I get invited to many shows such as the Phoenix Fashion Show as well as sporting events and gallery events. Many times I am wearing Native designer clothing or jewelry to represent their talents. You will find that in my photos that I am always crediting the talented artists that I work with.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion more than any other, drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

I would say it is “fierceness”. However, it is not necessarily “fierceness” that is solely derived from one’s ego. I feel that I have to be fierce in my patience, tolerance, and vulnerability. It took a spiritual journey for me to get my power. It takes deep introspection and self awareness. All of these aspects contribute to being fully in the industry I am in and, more importantly, being a human being.

What has been your biggest challenge as an actor/model? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

If you are an actor you are an artist. Early on, I found myself trying to seize every opportunity for recognition and pandering to those opportunities. In the end, I came to discover that if you work on your craft and work to be the best you can be in your craft, it is the shortest distance to feeling resolute with who you are and what you are capable of.

KENNETH LYTLE @kennethlytlephotography // ADAM FIERRO JEWElRY @adamfierro

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the film and modeling industry?

I see the internet in 2 separate streams. I see the vehicle that the industry rides upon and then I see the Open Social Media aspect. I enjoy the vehicle that the internet provides because it makes the process of telling a story shorter and more dynamic. These days the footage can be shot and immediately uploaded to the editing department. Auditions can be performed worldwide through video. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a physical audition because you can engage directly with the casting director and producers/director. But when there are opportunities and you are on the other side of the continent or globe...it is nice to still be able to perform. I think streaming services are open-ended with regard to whether it is a good thing or not. It is a reality. But there already has been attempts to delineate the streaming business from the movie industry so they can restructure pay. Another reality is Open Social Media. While I think it presents a medium to inform and enlighten, because people can behave so poorly, it also can hurt, harm, and mislead. Also, I find that actors far too often look for relevance.

Is there anything else you’d like us to know about you?

I am honored and humbled to be given opportunities in the film industry. I didn’t pursue a career in the film industry to be only an actor. I also have been a Casting Director, and a Producer. I pursue the art of storytelling.