Our November cover model Anna Kirjuskina was allowed to wear the most beautiful high-jewellery pieces from Cartier for us. In this interview, she tells us why she still prefers to be on the catwalk rather than in front of the camera, what needs to change in the fashion industry and how she spends her time away from it.
FACES: Congratulations on our November cover! Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Anna Kirjuskina: I come from Latvia, I was born and raised there, but my background is a mixture of different cultures. My mother is from Georgia and my father is Russian with Greek roots. I think this mixture has not only shaped my appearance, but also my curiosity about people and the world.
F: How does it feel to see yourself on a magazine cover?
AK: Every model dreams of this. When it actually happens, you feel grounded and yet totally excited at the same time.
Q: Which Cartier pieces from the shoot would you have liked to take home with you?
AK: That’s difficult, because I found them all simply stunning!
Q: What has been your favorite modeling job so far?
AK: Definitely the catwalk appearance at the last Bottega Veneta show for Louise Trotter’s debut collection. That was a real honor. The atmosphere, the energy and the vision behind it all was extraordinary. Every detail exuded a calm confidence and I felt very connected to it. It’s something I’ll remember fondly forever.
“I am at my most confident on the catwalk.“
Q: Do you prefer photo shoots or catwalks?
AK: Definitely catwalks. There’s nothing quite like this rush: the lights, the music, the pounding of your heart just before you walk out. It’s pure energy. I love the discipline, the elegance and the feeling of being completely present. I’m at my most confident on the catwalk.
Q: What advice would you give to young girls just starting out in the modeling industry?
AK: Never forget that your individuality is your greatest strength. Don’t try to adapt to other people’s idea of beauty. Stay professional, stay grounded and protect your soul.
Q: And what advice would you give your younger self?
AK: Trust yourself more. Patience is a powerful force and things will develop at the right time.
“I have a very playful, impatient and spontaneous side.“
Q: If you could change one thing about the modeling industry right now, what would it be?
AK: I would like to see more emotional connection and less pressure for perfection. The true beauty of this industry lies in its diversity, not just in terms of looks, but also in terms of personality, stories and energy. The most memorable images come from authenticity, not striving for a standard.
Q: What is on your bucket list, both professionally and personally?
AK: Professionally, I still hope to work with many more great brands that are on my list. Privately, I’d love to spend a few months by the sea, somewhere quiet and a bit removed from the world.
Q: How do you spend your time when you’re not modeling?
AK: I love long walks, visiting museums and galleries and enjoy having a quiet coffee in a cozy café. I play the piano and really enjoy spending time with my family.
Q: What’s something surprising about you that people wouldn’t expect?
AK: People often see me as quiet and a bit mysterious, but I actually have a very playful, impatient and spontaneous side.
You can find out who adorned our cover last month here.
Here you can follow what’s going on with Anna.
Photos: © Launchmetrics
