Mud MAGAZINE
from gucci to goodwill 09 1
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Mud MAGAZINE
f ro m g u c c i t o g o o d w i l l 09
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editor’s letter editor’s letter
mud magazine
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issue 09
SOMETIMES YOU JUST GOTTA SAY ‘FUCK IT’ AND COLOR OUTSIDE THE LINES. This is the ninth letter I’ve written at 3 am. It’s our ninth issue, so you can imagine how well I must be doing. It’s a Tuesday (or technically a Wednesday) and I’m thinking about the time I was seven years old and a teacher yelled at me for drawing a red cow. We had an assignment–the type that preschool teachers give you when they need a smoke break. The other kids sprinted to get their crayons. They fought for the same colors: black, pink, some even got brown once there was no black left. I went for the red crayon, of course. If you’ve never seen a red cow with spaghetti noodles as hair it’s because before I could finish coloring it, my teacher crumpled the piece of paper and threw it into the trash. “Cows are not supposed to be red!” she shouted, pretty red in the face herself. After that incident, I vowed to never color outside the lines. Every drawing was an exact replica of its real equivalent. When we had to color a dog, I asked for the specific breed so I could get the color right. I must have snapped five crayons every class from how tense my hand was. This is why I’m in awe of the people we have featured in this issue. Reading it,
I realized there’s one thing they all share: they don’t let anyone tell them who they are. Marianly Tejada left her small town in the Dominican Republic and her career to pursue her dream. I promise she’s someone you’re about to see EVERYWHERE. And so are Cooper van Grootel and Melanie Wozniak, who we can all agree are the coolest people you’ll ever meet. There’s the unparalleled Lexi Underwood, who’s got little fires inside, rocketing her into stardom. One of the people I’m super stoked for you to meet is Joe Ando-Hirsh, a fashion design student and Tik Tok sensation who proves how creative, dope, and resourceful young people are. With a similar approach, Maya Karamat taught me that we gotta have more fun while doing everyday things. Lastly, there’s the person who reminded me of the red cow I drew at seven years old. Not that Anna Makharadze wrote about a red cow. It’s just that her riveting writing slapped me on the face and told me to relax because life is made up of colors that are not meant to be contained inside the lines. In fact, seeing too many colors is not the problem. Worry when you see none.
from gucci to goodwill
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cristina gutierrez photo editor and designer ceo of happy hour
clifford lindholm podcast host ceo of asking the uncomfortable questions
muskan modi business ceo of procrastinating
emily degennaro creative editor ceo of “sorry, i was working out�
megan keane content editor ceo of blaming it on her zodiac 6
nathan kim staff writer ceo of wild statistics
kamryn desrosiers staff writer ceo of excessive book buying
kylee harvey legal ceo of resting bitch face
bryan casey staff writer ceo of drinking during meetings
morgan buzga business ceo of late night taco bell
lucca casalduc creative ceo of not knowing how to save money
hector gutierrez editor-in-chief ceo of having bad english days 7
meet marianly tejada spring ‘20 cover
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song: self control by frank ocean quarantine snack: oranges social media app: instagram book: all the light we cannot see by anthony doerr fashion influence: tessa thompson, kaya gerber quote: “la constancia de pequeños detalles construye las grandes cosas.” which translates to “the consistency of small details creates great things.” movie / tv show: the crown artist: frank ocean vacation spot: greek islands hobbie: playing the guitar go-to drink: vodka tonic with lots of lime dessert: creme brulee new york spot: fat cat
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WHA INSID
this is joe ando-hirsh pg. 14
melanie wozniak can do i pg. 18
thrift shopping with maya karamat pg. 24
GET READY TO SEE MARIANLY TE EVERYWHERE pg. 26 12
AT’S IDE? LEXI UNDERWOOD IS A NAME YOU WON’T FORGET PG. 36
it all
COOPER VAN GROOTEL PG. 38
TO CRY, LOVE, AND FEEL IN THE CITY PG. 44
EJADA
from gucci to goodwill PG. 48 13
This actor and FIT fashion design student aspires to follow both of his passions in creative ways. One day, he dreams of making clothing for co-stars to wear to the red carpet events.
insta: @joeandohirsh
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tik tok: @joeando
How did you get started into fashion?
How has Tik Tok influenced
My parents were both artists. My father was a photographer and my mother is a chef. I grew up watching them constantly pursue what they were passionate about and they always gave me the freedom to explore my interests. In the 1960’s, my father had developed a small clothing line using culturally relevant textiles. He’d exposed me to his love of fashion at a young age and naturally, I developed an interest. Eventually, I moved to New York City to pursue a career as an actor, and while I still do pursue acting, I decided to attend FIT part-time while doing so.
I’ve been very lucky to get such a positive response to my work and that motivates me to keep creating content for the people who support me. In order to create fashion content I have to create garmentsand that takes hours of hard work and development. Tik Tok has pushed me to be constantly creating and has made me even more attentive to detail. It’s also helped me to further develop my own identity as a designer. While I feel developing my own artistic identity is an ever-changing process, Tik Tok has motivated me to think a little deeper into what I hope to do with my own brand someday.
What’s the hardest part of being a fashion student? What’s the easiest?
your creative process?
“I have noticed there is a lot of pressure
today to “fit in” and be “on trend.” I would
love to encourage people to have more fun with clothing and use it as a form of true expression.”
The hardest part of being a fashion student is definitely the amount of hours you have to put into your work. In my first year at FIT, I was part of the accelerated one-year program. In this program, they cram two years of education into a single year. For that year, I had little to no social life outside of school and a part-time job. Most weekends and holidays were spent at school, from when the studio opened at 9 am, to when it closed at 2 am.
What does it means to be young in America today?
What are your goals after graduating from FIT? I’m extremely passionate about two things and I still strive to find a way to maintain and merge both of them successfully. For the time being, I plan to continue working on my own clothing while continuing to develop myself as an actor. With all of the gracious support that I’ve been receiving through Tik Tok and Instagram, I’m extremely eager to develop my own clothing line. I’m as happy as could be at this time and I hope things will only continue to get better.
If I’m being completely honest, there’s no easy part of being a fashion student. While different schools have different responsibilities, FIT demands that all students have the ability to draw, drape, pattern, and sew. It can be very challenging but very rewarding! 15 15
biggest fashion influence: comme des garcons trend you wish came back: white t-shirts only at-home outfit: gym shorts and a hoodie favorite season: spring best coffee in nyc: lions milk in williamsburg! dream collaboration: comme des garcons favorite piece of clothing you own/have created: my leather aviator jacket (that i made!) let’s say it’s nyfw, tell us your go-to outfit to hit the streets: i might use this time to wear some of my edgier creations instagram or tik tok: both! favorite quarantine snack: my mom’s cooking… gucci or goodwill: goodwill! vintage clothes show character!
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insta: @melwoz
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melanie wozniak c an do i t all.
story by kamryn desrosiers
photographs by leann oliver
Melanie’s talent shines all the way from Western Australia, where she loves to surround herself with the turquoise beaches and rich bushland. At home, she has also created a fundamental network of people, or as she prefers to call them, her everlasting tribe. Getting the chance to know more about Melanie has taught me one thing: she truly does it all. She is not just an actress, but also a fashion icon in the making. Through her education and professional experience, fashion has become another way for her artistic self to shine. While her focus may be on the modern day country man, her work has also been modeled by women on the runway. “I constantly find myself interested in how clothing shapes the body
and is an expression of one’s artistic self. I love how the choice of fabric can evoke a feeling - a sense of ‘mood’ and how it can alter the structure of the human body, or even alter the space around the body,” Melanie told Mud. As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, Melanie had the opportunity to connect even closer to her role on “Itch.” In the show, she plays Jack, a nonbinary character who matches Melanie’s adventurous personality. “When I first auditioned for “JACK” in Itch, I was thankful that they were a non-binary character as I felt it gave a voice to a community that can be under-represented, particularly in children’s TV,” Melanie said. Melanie’s identity not only deepens her connection to
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the role she is playing, but also allows her own voice to shine through. Through this role, she seeks to be an advocate for change to create a more accepting world for the LGBTQIA+ community. As we anxiously continue to wait for the second season of Itch to come out, Melanie gave us a sneak peek into various aspects of her life. We learned that if there is ever a movie based on her life, she wants Shailene Woodley to play her. And that her secret talent is so secret that she has not even found it yet! Using this time to focus on exciting fashion projects, Melanie continues to prove to us that she indeed can do it all. I was so excited to catch up with her on what’s her go to snack, playing Jack, and so much more.
You’re from WA. What’s the first thing we should know about growing up and acting in Australia?
As a member of the LGBTQIA+ community, how do you use your youth platform to advocate for more inclusion in the industry? Is there any advice you’d give to aspiring young actors who are also part of the community?
I sure am! I was born in Chile and moved to WA when I was two. I wouldn’t wish to have grown up anywhere else. Perth is a small city surrounded by the most beautiful turquoise beaches and rich bushland. It is quiet and I believe growing up here has taught me the importance of surrounding yourself with nature and creating a fundamental network of people who are your everlasting tribe! Acting in Australia has given me the ability to explore parts of my own country I otherwise probably wouldn’t visit, so in a way, I feel like I am a tourist in my own state when I am shooting. We are always looking so far away and sometimes the greatest beauties can be discovered in your own backyard.
The main piece of advice I would give to other aspiring young actors is the reminder that the LGBTQIA+ community is one of the most, if not, the most inclusive community in the world with the A standing for ‘ALLY’. I believe everyone should be a member of this community, so identifying with this community is simply identifying that you are open minded and supportive to all. It’s so great to see how more and more people have fought for LGBT rights over the years and I hope this continues to grow, and this should give comfort to those who are finding it difficult to come out in the industry. Being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community as an ally helps with empathy, not only within myself, but also for others around me. I have always felt that supporting individuals to be confident in their sexuality regardless of orientation will help close the gap of such exclusion that still exists. As an advocate for equal rights, and having friends who identify as LGBT, my critical thought process has enhanced and I have found myself becoming more aware of the impact that this community has on pop culture. The most important piece of advice I have is empowering yourself to take an active role in creating a more accepting world by countering prejudice and discrimination with understanding, support and care. Change can be really hard to accept but I feel the youth of 2020 are admirably supporting the community to be recognized. One of my favourite stories being Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie holding off on their marriage until 2014 when California passed the laws allowing gay marriage. When I first auditioned for “JACK” in ITCH, I was thankful that they were a non-binary character as I felt it gave a voice to a community that is under-represented, particularly in children’s TV.
What interests you most in fashion? Are you currently working on any fashionfocused projects? I constantly find myself interested in how clothing shapes the body and is an expression of one’s artistic self. I love how the choice of fabric can evoke a feeling - a sense of ‘mood’ and how it can alter the structure of the human body, or even alter the space around the body. I have been focusing on the modern day country man, and what it means to intertwine this man into the traditional suit structures. These suits are inspired by the terrain of desert to the peaks and curves of glaciers. As a designer, I am interested in how these deconstructed suits can be genderless and in my latest runway show, my suits were showcased by woman. You can watch my fashion space @melaniewozniakcreative. 20 20
what does it mean to be young in the world today? We have power, we have control, and we’re not afraid to go out and take what is ours! I feel inspired by the youth around me, and I believe we can be vocal and hungry for change. Thinking out of the box is the new cool, and we are truly taking over the world.
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Your character, Jack, is always up for an adventure. What would you say has been the biggest adventure of your life so far? My biggest adventure so far was my trip to Alaska where I spent a few days experiencing the wilderness and glacier landscape. I was lucky enough to witness a glacier carving! This is actually where my inspiration for the ‘WOVEN INTO THE GREY-SCAPE’ suit was inspired from.
Jack is a brown belt in Martial Arts. How was training for the role like? It was so much fun! I love to be challenged physically so it was exciting to jump into the deep end. I had already dipped my toe in tae kwon do as I got to the last round in casting for the TV series ‘Power Rangers’. For this I trained every second day in gymnastics and tae kwon do with a private coach to the lead up of my final audition. Unfortunately I didn’t get the role, but I learnt so much from the experience and that training definitely helped with my fight sequences on the set of ITCH.
What is the biggest takeaway from working on the show? What are you looking forward to in season 2? Definitely seeing the mechanics behind such a big production and how they operated that everyday. Until you are working on a set like this, you just don’t realise the amount of people involved! I was grateful to have seen this up close as ITCH was my first large-scale production I’ve been a part of. I’m looking forward to seeing this crew and cast again for season 2! You really become a family, and I cannot wait to work with them all again! 23
Thriftshopping with Maya Karamat
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Maya Karamat is an 18 year old Cancer whose love can be def1ned by the 4 fs. Friends, Family, Fashion and food! I am the youngest of three kids, and I am currently a second semester freshman in college. I have always had a calling for anything that involves using my creativity. How did you get into fashion?
Give us one piece of advice for the novice thrift shoppers?
My passion for fashion started at a very young age. As far back as I can remember, I was stealing heels and lipstick from my mom’s closet to play dress up. Growing up my notebooks for school would be filled with designs and dress sketches. At the age of 9, I was set on going to FIT school for design.
My biggest piece of advice for the novice thrift shopper would be to look through everything! Nothing good comes from staying in your comfort zone. Stepping outside the box is essential for growth, not just in fashion but in life. If you’re a girl, don’t just browse through the women’s section. You must look in the men’s section and the kids’ section. Also, seeing potential in rough pieces is key! You must understand that before a diamond was a diamond, it was a rock in the rough.
You have amazing thrift store haul and thrift flip videos on TikTok. How has Tik Tok influenced your creativity and love for fashion? I originally downloaded the app as a joke, probably like most of you. But because my friends would constantly blow up my phone with TikToks, I finally decided to open the app. After realizing that TikTok was more than just comedic videos, I saw the potential to create content that I genuinely enjoyed. Maybe even start a few trends. One day while in Goodwill shopping with my mom, I decided to whip out my iphone and start recording some of the gems that I had found. Ever since, I’ve been hooked.
Biggest fashion influence: Cher Trend you wish came back: Crackle Nails At-home outfit: Joggers and a band tee with some
fuzzy socks
Favorite fashion-related movie or documentary:
The Devil Wears Prada
If you could dress a celebrity, who would it be:
Jeffree Star
Favorite piece of clothing you have found at a thrift store: Vintage Levis Corduroy Jacket with the
What does it mean to be young in America today?
original tags
Growing up in a Muslim household, my parents were more on the conservative side when it came to how I dressed. As I got older, my shorts slowly became longer and my shirts grew sleeves. It was always a fight for fashion because everything I wanted to wear wasn’t to their taste. However, knowing my passion for style, my parents have become more lenient over the years. That being said, I still get weird looks from elders in public when I wear shredded jeans. Yes Karen, I bought my jeans like this.
Let’s say it’s NYFW, tell us your go-to outfit to hit the streets: A crisp white, mid-thigh long sleeve,
paired with a cinched black corset belt mid-waist, with a slick back high ponytail, black thigh high boots f1nished with layered gold jewelry and a Gucci Dionysus super mini snakeskin bag Favorite quarantine snack: Tacos tAcOs TACOS Favorite accessories: Layered Necklaces, headscarves, chains and belts Gucci or goodwill: Goodwill 100% 25
insta: @marianlytejada
Get Ready to See Marianly Tejada Everywhere Story by Hector Gutierrez Photographs by Rachel Palumbo
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Make up by Kayle Williams Dress by MIMI Tran Design 27
The main thing you need to know about Marianly Tejada is that she’s not afraid to go after what she wants. Whether that is putting her architecture education on hold to pursue acting or having some healthy competition involving a film camera with co-star Cooper van Grootel, Marianly goes above and beyond when it comes to following her passions. And after I had the chance to catch up with her for the spring issue of Mud, I’m not surprised she’s so driven. Growing up in the Dominican Republic, acting was never a choice for our cover star. In fact, even after she moved to the U.S. for school, becoming an actress was not the original plan. “When I moved to the U.S. and started my basics for architecture, I sneaked in my first acting class. That’s when it started to feel possible and shortly after, I put architecture on hold and moved to New York,” Marianly told Mud. Hearing Marianly’s journey to become an artist was not only inspiring, but also reminded me of the arduous challenges she had to face to get where she is now. While the United States has cities like New York and LA which represent popular hubs for aspiring actors, most Latin American countries do not offer the same opportunities. In fact, some of them still place a stigma on pursuing a professional career in the arts. Last October, Marianly was cast as one of the leads in NBC’s new upcoming show One of Us Is Lying. Based on the bestselling book by Karen McManus (which I recommend you read asap before the show comes out), the TV adaptation promises to be a major success. Marianly will play Bronwyn, who is the people’s champ, if you ask me. She’s the brains of the group, and with her sights set on attending Yale after graduation, she will do anything to protect her future. “I think our essence is quite similar; thoughtful and driven; and when we put our minds to something… it will get done!” said Marianly about the similarities between her and her character.
Not to brag, but Mud got an inside scoop from the two main leads on what to expect from the show and the one thing they can promise fans is LOTS of chemistry. Marianly also earned her way into some of the most popular, binge-worthy shows ever. Last year, she got her first U.S. gig in Orange Is the New Black, which was a goal of hers. Her involvement on set was nothing short of dreamy. She had nothing but great things to say about her experience and the cast, which she described as one big family. Shortly after, she appeared on The Purge, where she got to work alongside one of her role models, Paola Nuñez. 28
But why not hear all of this from her? I caught up with our cover star on her favorite pizza spot in New York City, what’s on her playlist at the moment, and her fashion influences. While quarantine has made me even more impatient for One of Us Is Lying to come out, I’m super stoked for Marianly to bring Bronwyn to life. Not just for the fans of the book, but for every young Latinx person who gets inspired by seeing a part of themselves represented on screen. If Marianly’s story has taught me anything is that no matter where you’re from, it will always pay off to chase your dreams. 29
You were raised in the DR. Won the Miss Mundo Dominicana 2011. Majored in Architecture in college. How did you decide to go into acting? Ever since I can remember I wanted to be an actor. But growing up in a small town in the Dominican Republic, I didn’t really know that was an option. Much later, when I moved to the U.S. and started my basics for architecture, I sneaked into my first acting class. That’s when it started to feel possible and shortly after, I put architecture on hold and moved to New York. After doing some modeling and commercial acting, the Miss Mundo Dominicana came along and with that a chance to do some film and TV in the DR.
There are big advocates for the Latinx community in Hollywood right now. Who do you look up to? So many people! I’m a huge fan of Adria Arjona, Lorenza Izzo, Melissa Barrera and Ana de Armas. They’re breaking all the barriers and it thrills me to see their body of work because the range is so wide. I also love Tanya Saracho’s writing and vision; I think she’s changing the game. Directors like Alejandro González Iñárritu, Guillermo del Toro, Alfonso Cuarón and Alfonso Gomez-Rejon prove that greatness is not limited to a certain group of people.
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What does it mean to be young in America today? I’m trying to figure that out myself. But something that applies to being both Dominican and American is that we live in a time where it’s a responsibility to speak up about the things we don’t agree with. Our voices and ideas are needed. Our input, and votes are valuable and crucial to creating positive change. Especially being a person of color in the U.S.
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Latinx representation in pop culture is SO important. How do you go about being a role model for Latinx young people? Whether a small or big platform, people are always attentive, especially now with social media. We all have the potential to inspire, influence and empower each other, but can only do so by being authentic. I remind myself of that, and how important it is to do my best. To not take things for granted. I see life as a collective effort: I stand on the shoulders of those who came before me and some day the next generation will stand on ours. I hope that by taking some risks to pursue my dreams and enjoying the fruit of that, some little Latinx boy or girl (even in the smallest of towns) can identify that it’s also possible.
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One of Us Is Lying captured me entirely! What are your thoughts on the book? How did you react when you found out you were selected for the pilot?
You and Cooper are Instagram goals. What’s your friendship like?
I hadn’t read the book when I first auditioned. Then a few auditions in I was scared to read it and get more attached to the project. So when I was finally cast, I ran to the nearest bookstore and got it. I read it in 2 days. I loved that the chemistry between characters was palpable, it just came off the page. I’m a sucker for books that make the reading experience visceral and One of Us definitely did that for me. I also love how Karen gave each of them a depth that goes beyond their years. When my agents called to give me the news, I took it calmly. I think it’s because I couldn’t believe it yet. Then I FaceTimed my mom and we both cried a little. You’re playing Bronwyn (the people’s champ, if you ask me). How much do you relate to the character? In what ways are you different?
I think our essence is quite similar; thoughtful and driven; and when we put our minds to something…it will get done! Her love for her family is also something I relate to. Our biggest difference may be that I’m louder and I’m the youngest of five while she’s an older sister. Without giving us spoilers, what can we expect from the show? Great chemistry!
That’s sweet. We are all so united as a cast, but Cooper was the first one I met. He’s the most chill and cool person so it’s natural to want to be around that. We share a love for candid photos and a good film. He’s also super talented so there’s some healthy competition happening there. How was filming for The Purge? Was it as scary as it looks? I didn’t get to shoot on Purge day so I missed out on all that fun. Most of my scenes were flashbacks where we see my character’s relationship with her big sister Esme, played by Paola Nuñez. That was the highlight of my shoot: working with Paola. She’s so caring and such a badass actor. You were also on OITNB. Can you share your favorite behind-the-scenes moment with us? Orange was such a quick shoot, and actually my first TV gig in the U.S. I was a bit intimidated to go work on the set of a show I liked so much and dreamt of being a part of. But from the first moment I walked in, I noticed how everyone treated each other like family. And I was welcomed into that big family with such warmth! That left the best impression on me.
Our issue pays tribute to how young people use their resources to express themselves. How do you use what’s around you, your clothes, your voice, and other parts of your identity to express who you are? When it comes to how I dress it’s not something I overthink or plan too much. It’s a very intuitive process for me. I see something and can immediately feel if I want to wear it in a particular moment. So I guess unconsciously, what I wear expresses a lot about me or how I’m feeling. Listening to myself keeps it fun and always evolving. I notice that when I’m watching a period movie, show, or look at art, I grab onto details of the costumes and then find myself browsing for them in stores. 34
But then there’s the wild side of me that loves things raw, in their pure state. So I love not wearing makeup and throwing on oversized or flowy pieces. It makes me feel powerful. With my voice, I listen to myself as well. Usually the issues that we can relate to or are the most personal to us, will get our attention. When that happens, I do my best to speak up or act on it. When you’re sharing a story that you care about and that deeply affects you, it’s nice to see that it can impact and serve others.
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LEXI UNDERWOOD IS A N story by Héctor Gutierrez
Lexi Underwood might be playing the new kid in town in Little Fires Everywhere, but she is no rookie.
Pearl Warren simply wants a more stable life. She yearns to paint more than one wall in her room, graduate from a high school where she spends more than a few months in, and make meaningful connections without the constant fear that time’s running out. Soon after moving to Shaker Heights, Pearl’s life becomes entangled with that of the Richardsons: a rich, white family that watches too much TV and cares little for the world outside their perfectly manicured lawn. “I remember the first time I read the script I was like ‘wow’, because I could relate to Pearl in so many ways. At the end of the day she’s just trying to figure outwhere she fits in and who she is,” Lexi tells me. Pearl is every fifteen year old struggling to find their place in this world. Yet, unlike the other young characters, she’s quick to learn from her mistakes. I was mesmerized by Lexi’s close resemblance to the Pearl that Celeste Ng, the author, imagined in the novel.
She translates that character from the page to the screen in the most captivating way. “Looking back at last year, I never could have imagined that I would be in this position right now,” Lexi says in response to the great reviews the show has received. “It’s a lovely feeling when your hard work pays off.” Even though Little Fires Everywhere is set in the 90s, the social and cultural issues it tackles give it an air of modernity. Pearl navigates classism, emerging sexuality, and concepts of privilege. One of the major storylines in this season shows how a character uses Pearl’s hardships for their own gain, which fuels a conversation about cultural appropriation and racism. “For young black teenagers, when you’re in an arena where the All-American dream is white, blonde hair, blue eyes or green eyes, you struggle to find a place where you fit in. I hope young people can learn from Pearl that it’s okay to be weird and stand out. That it’s okay to be different,” Lexi says. Although she shines just fine on her own, Lexi is joined by the amazing Reese Witherspoon (Big Little Lies) and Kerry Washington (Scandal), who she credits for helping her reach new heights in her acting. Ms. Kerry, as Lexi refers to the Scandal actress, taught her a lot about filming intense scenes, and making the viewers feel the emotions. “They are so fun and 3636
loveable,” she says. “We had so many beautiful moments.” In between takes, Lexi used the time to get producing and acting advice from her costars, and in return, taught Reese how to hit the ‘woah’. She recalls being so nervous and excited when filming began, but she credits the two actresses for helping her ease into her character and tackle the more intense scenes. “I formed a true bond with Ms. Kerry. We had inside jokes. It was like a motherdaughter relationship. I truly saw her as a mom. How could you not when you’re telling a story like Mia and Pearl’s?” she says. Lexi also formed a close friendship with her younger castmates. From trips to Disneyland to grabbing dinner after filming, they forged their own family, much like their characters do on the show. Even though filming has ended, Lexi continues to stay in touch with the entire cast, and gets super excited when she sees them for press events. It’s as though the on-screen relationship between the Richardson children and Pearl Warren carried onto real life. It comes to show that the casting director did a terrific job picking these actors, especially since they resemble their characters on a profound level. Lexi and Pearl are twokindred spirits doing their best to figure out this crazy world. If you ask me, I’d say the sixteen-year-old is crushing it. Weeks after turning fifteen
NAME YOU WON’T FORGET Lexi created her own production company called Ultimate Dreamer Productions. As an aspiring director and producer, she wants to elevate diverse voices, especially those of young women. Lexi wants other women to explore their creativity, and she believes that making screens more inclusive can help them achieve that. “An ultimate dreamer is an audacious visionary who does what they set their mind to,” Lexi says with confidence. “As a young female who wants to act and produce as well, I consider it super inspiring to be surrounded by strong women at the helm of this project. These women are audacious visionaries.” I could honestly go on forever about Lexi’s impact, both on and off the screen, but it’s best to see her in action to witness her influence. Little Fires Everywhere is only on episode four, and although I’m salty that Hulu made it impossible for us to binge-watch the entire show, I’ve compensated by rewatching them a few times. The storyline? Riveting. The cast? Legendary. Lexi’s performance? Worthy of that Lady Gaga video where she lists off a bunch of positive adjectives. Off-screen, Lexi is having the time of her life. She’s gracing our Insta feeds with superb karaoke skills, and livetweeting hilarious memes of her reactions to the episodes. And if Tik Tok had been a
thing in the 90s, I’m sure Pearl would have duetted Lexi’s fire rendition of Doja Cat’s “Say So.” Towards the end of our conversation, Lexi and I bond over our obsession with Twitter (“It’s just so much fun!”) and come to the conclusion that Goldfish are the best quarantine snack. She’s wise beyond her years, but doesn’t shy away from having fun. And that’s what Gen Z represents to her. “Being young in America today is a journey,” Lexi says. “Young people are struggling right now with our current situation. There are no true leaders and it’s up to our generation to create change. The people in charge of doing that are not doing their jobs, so it’s up to us.” Despite being sixteen years old, Lexi knows what she wants. Her poise is mature, her perspective on the world inspirational, and her charming personality a joy to be around. She speaks with the confidence of a young trailblazer, one who knows that her legacy extends beyond a fictionalized character. “It is an honor to be part of this generation,” she says with pride. “We’re truly the ones who are going to change the world. And even though it’s going to take a while to get there, we’re already changing up the narrative.”
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Young people are sold the false narrative that “finding ourselves” is an event instead of a journey. We are told that it happens to us instead of being an everyday pursuit. Pearl encounters this challenge in the show, and sometimes makes the wrong choice when it comes to forging her identity. But that’s what being a teenager is all about: fucking up. Falling in love with the wrong people, recognizing our parents can be wrong as much as they can be right, and dealing with the growing pains of adolescence. Our teenage years are a time of growth, and Lexi has certainly been growing. When she could be resting from her exhausting schedule and spending more time being “young,” Lexi has made the choice to be different. The way she uses her voice to galvanize young people to raise theirs is a testament to the quality of her soul. Doing good is so important to her and it shows. If there is one thing that I’m absolutely certain about is that Lexi Underwood is rocketing, and there’s no limit to how far she’ll go.
by Bryan Casey You may know him as the slicked back, bleach-blond racer who exudes confidence on Netflix’s Go Karts. Dean’s the bad boy with the beefed-up kart on his side, and the phrase “I am unbeatable” booming in the back of his head as he starts his engine and waits patiently for the race to begin. He is the favorite to win as the checkered flag waves for the final lap. Yet, playing the antagonist comes with a cost, that being having to take the fall for a happy ending. This does not matter for Australian actor Cooper Van Grootel. He is simply following the script and performing his part. While the character of Dean is always focused on outracing his rival, Cooper is focused on,
well, other things. One of those being surfing. Growing up in Perth, Western Australia, Cooper fell in love with going to the beach and catching waves. “Surfing plays a big part in my life and I think that keeps me sane in today’s day and age,” said Cooper. He also developed a passion for acting, leading to him obtaining his first role at the age of twelve as Jayden from The Legend of Gavin Tanner. So where does someone who loves to surf, and act go from there? California, of course. Or in Cooper’s case, Los Angeles. While the waves are not as big, Cooper has been adapting to this new environment by taking lots of pictures, preferably with his film camera; getting to know his fellow co-stars;
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and indulging in his favorite American snacks. Cooper’s short year in Los Angeles has already paid off: he landed a part as one of the leads for NBC’s upcoming show, One of Us Is Lying. While Cooper waits for this pandemic to be over so he can resume his acting projects, the Australian actor is spending quality time at home, stocking up on Reese’s Pieces, solving puzzles, and listening to “No. 28” by Methyl Ethel on repeat. Although we’re bummed that a lot of films and shows are on hold, one thing Cooper told Mud that fans can expect from One of Us Is Lying is a great story and A LOT of chemistry.
instagram: @coopervangrootel_
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photo by Rachel Palumbo
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You were born in Perth and moved to LA last year at just 18 years old. What has been the biggest culture shock from the move?
In your Insta bio you have the quote “less is more.” Where did this mindset come from and why is this idea so important to you?
Living in a bigger city. I’m from Perth but I live about 5 minutes from the beach, so being thrusted into a city living environment was very different and tricky to get used to. Having the beach so far away from where I lived was strange but change was inevitable and I really enjoyed adapting to the new surroundings. LA is so cool and I love its vibe.
I feel as though it’s the small things that mean a lot. Small gestures that people give... I’m not about the big grandiose plans and presents, I like to keep things simple. It also speaks to me when it comes to acting. A camera will pick up the smallest detail, or facial expression... it’s really just about showing less and more will come across on screen.
Your Instagram gives off this dope retro film vibe. Is photography one of your hobbies outside of acting? If so, how did you get into taking photos?
photo by Rachel Palumbo
I’ve always loved photography and messing around with cameras. It wasn’t until a few years back when I bought my first film camera, Canon AE-1, that I really became invested in photography. The whole process of not knowing what the photos were going to look like until they were developed was so fascinating. Film is also super expensive so I have to be careful that I don’t go around just snapping shots aimlessly, the photo has to have a purpose. That’s what is so cool about film. 41
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In “Go Karts” you play Dean, the tough top racer with an obsessive drive to win. While Dean may be the antagonist, did you resonate with him in any way? Dean’s drive and determination is definitely something I resonate with. I’m always hungry for something that pushes me to break new boundaries and take risks. Moving to America was a big step in my career and it was my excitement for acting and the unknown that drove me to make the decision which is definitely where I resonate with Dean–his will to go on and the need for something bigger.
Most of the film was shot on the racetrack. Do you have any funny stories from shooting? Did the team ever take a break from shooting to actually race? To be honest, the whole shoot was just a bunch of laughs and a good time. Every time we would shoot Dean and his Dad performing the ‘Pre-race’ mantra, it was a lot of fun. It’s such a crucial thing that Dean needed to do before every race to get into the right mindset, but it kind of also seems like a ridiculous thing to do. Damian de Montemas and I would always have a laugh after shooting it, those were the days! Although I think everyone really wanted to take a break and floor it around the track a few times, we never really had the time, the budget was so tight and the shoot days were so limited.
Did you learn any tips in case you wanted to become a professional go kart/race car driver? One tip which made the world of difference - have your hands positioned at ‘nine’ and ‘three’ like on a clock. Apparently you look very inexperienced if you don’t know that one so I’m glad someone mentioned that to me early on in the shoot! Lol. Life saver.
Our issue’s cover, Marianly Tejada, and you are both starring in “One of Us Is Lying.” What can viewers expect from your character and the on-screen chemistry between Brownyn and Nate? A LOT of chemistry, that’s all I’ll say for now :)
Nate is a troubled guy in a complicated situation. What was your process to get into character for the Pilot? Like everyone in this world, people have so much more going on in their life than what they show you. Nate’s similar to an iceberg, he only reveals the top but there’s so much more going on below the water. I would always write down character thoughts and ideas in a notebook as if it was Nate actually writing it, ideas would just flow from one to the other and that was basically my process. I kept it pretty secret and would read over it every day before set, to remind me of how he’s feeling and what he’s dealing with. 42
Wacth Cooper on Netflix’s “Go Karts” – OUT NOW! Make sure to watch him on Australian series MYSTERY ROAD on May 3rd @ 8.30pm on ABC. Mystery Road will also be available to stream on iView!
photo by Rachel Palumbo
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Ana Makharadze
TO CRY, LOVE, AND FEEL IN THE CITY
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“The thing about New York isn’t the fact that it is the best city in the world, but I wholeheartedly believe that people are their best selves when they move to the city.�
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I would escape to Manhattan each time something went wrong in my life, whether it was heartbreak, undigested childhood pain, or self-hatred, my shoe size of 7.5 would always somehow end up in Grand Central. I knew nothing about the 4-5-6 trains, but I did know to avoid all the NYC ‘born and raised’ crackheads. I had my first heartbreak in the city. I found my queerness in the city. I fulfilled my dream of finding a mother in the city. I cried. I loved. I felt. I got fucked by the city- raw, hard, face down, ass up kind of way. Muffled sounds and moans of pleasure? Pain. I fell in love with the city. Each morning filled with iced coffee and my lavender soap, all ruined by the smell of shit and piss the moment you stepped out. Central Park isn’t that big, they said. Well, neither is your dick, John and it won’t turn me straight I promise. Stop asking. I met in the city. I found the city. I got loved back by the city. Apparently, if you tip your cab driver more than 25%, he will, and I can’t stress this enough, he will call you pretty and invite you to a jazz show. My deli guy knows my order better than I know the periodic table. Bacon, egg, cheese, ketchup and black coffee, please. The nail lady obviously knows me pretty well, so tell me why she gotta act so surprised when I ask her to leave my index and middle short? I am a lesbian. I paid rent in the city. I did laundry in the city. I pet 4646
puppies in the city. NYC landlords are capitalist pigs, and so are all the White people on the Upper East Side. That’s why I moved. Upper West seems the same? It’s just West really. My landlord however flirts with me by butchering my name over and over and over. Makha-ra-dze, dude. Here’s 3400$ for May, now fuck off. I paint the city. I clap for the city. The laundry guy fucked up my white shirt once. I let it go. Now, he smiles each time we bump into each other in the streets. I was riding the Q once, and the whole train started saying things they were grateful for. Everyone cheered each time. I graduated, I said. Yes, sis, fuck it up- they said. I served a table of 15 once, all filled with holocausty-looking grandpas. They tipped me 200$, however I can’t say I enjoyed their hands on my ass. I smoked juul in the city. I drank vodka shots in the city. I slapped someone in the city. The city loves me, and I am definitely in love with a thing that’s not a person. All my lovers live in the Lower East Side. Coincidence? Maybe. They’re all bitches who think that fucking me with a rainbow colored strap gets me going. Losers. One shot. Two shots. Seven shots? Are you okay? Call the fucking Uber, Ana. I swear, I had my keys right here! Oh my god. Is that a rat? I hate this city.
Hey Siri, find me a number for an exterminator in Manhattan. Sorry, I can’t do that you dumb bitch, it’s 3 am. My white converse turned black in the city. My hair got shorter in the city. I pierced my nose in the city. I pierced my tits twice in the city. P.S don’t let that shit get infected, it’s not cute. Williamsburg is just a drug ring full of NYU kids, who think they’re so quirky for wearing all black and for going to Bossa Nova on Fridays. Techno is lit!, she said. We smiled and stared away in the distance with our dramatic Eastern European corneas. I threw up in the Uber once in the city. I’m sorry if you’re out there, I had a bad day.
Now, every night at 7 pm, I stare outside and listen to you, your mom, your dad, your grandma, your grandpa, your friend, your cousin, your partner all clap and cheer, and I can’t help but thinkwill things ever go back to how they were? I miss the city. 47 47
from gucci to goodwill issue 09
photos by hector gutierrez
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sunday at the thrift shop a playlist
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01. kill us by jessie reyez 02. little things by louis the child, xcii & chelsea cutler 03. just my luck by marc e. bassy feat. blackbear 04. stained glass by madison beer 05. high fashion by roddy ricch feat. mustard 06. bloody valentine by mgk 07. love you for a long time by maggie rogers 08. jesus in la by alec benjamin 09. she by hayley kiyoko 10. at least i look cool by sasha sloan
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Photo by Isi Parente (@isiparente)
PHOTO BY ALLAN FRANCA CARMO @allanfranca.photography
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Mud MAGAZINE
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Hector Gutierrez
CONTENT EDITOR
PHOTO EDITOR AND DESIGNER
CREATIVE EDITOR
Megan Keane
Cristina Gutierrez
Emily DeGennaro
MANAGING EDITOR Kamryn Desrosiers
STAFF WRITER Bryan Casey
STAFF WRITER Nathan Kim
BUSINESS
BUSINESS
Muskan Modi
Morgan Buzga
PODCAST HOST Clifford Lindholm
LEGAL Kylee Harvey
CREATIVE Lucca Casalduc
From Gucci to Goodwill
Spring ‘20
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themudmag.com
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE YOUNG?
@themudmag
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Mud MAGAZINE
Mud Magazine is made by young people, for younG PEOPLE.
new York, NY
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themudmag.com
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