Interview: Model Ira Pavlova (Russia)
Can you tell us a little about you?
I am from a small place. I went to university in Ryazan and from there I graduated in Business. After university, at the age of 24 I was discovered by a model agent on the streets of Moscow. Therefore, on the one hand, I am a small town girl, but on the other hand, I have become a woman of the world. In this regard I am very fortunate because I carry with me old world values along with new world experience. I also enjoy an active and healthy lifestyle away from modeling, which includes hobbies such as piano, learning languages and playing tennis. Like everybody else I wish to have more time to do more things, as I enjoy gardening and reading, but I know these are things I will do in the future.
If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?
I am very comfortable with myself and I am quite content with my life. But since starting modelling I’m away a lot, and I’m an only child, so I wish to be a better daughter, who could spend more time with my mom and entire family or even bring them along with me when I travel. But neither is easy to do and it bothers me. I hope to do better with this in the future.
How did you start modelling?
As I said I was literally discovered on the street. Like in a movie! I was 24, which is late for a typical modeling career, probably because until then I was always in our small town. Living in Moscow and being discovered changed my life. I'm that girl that never expected to experience being in Vogue or Harper's Bazaar. I still wake up sometimes in the morning and wonder “Is it really true?”
What do you think of the work as a model?
There are many layers to the life of the model. There is modeling work itself, which consists of very long days and requires stamina, concentration, focus, a little bit of acting and a lot of passion. But then there is a process to get that work, the castings and interviews, which is very humbling at times and quite time consuming. There is the aspect of life away from work and process, which involves taking care of yourself, nutrition, exercise. These matters of external beauty and mental healthiness affect your success as a model. It all comes out in your work. There is another aspect with the world stage, which involves travel and hotels. Yes it is glamorous but there are also sacrifices which come along with it, mostly affecting the areas of personal life, such as moments of loneliness. All together though the job of a model is very satisfying and exciting and I would not change career for anything.
What is your beauty regimen?
My beauty regimen all starts with going to bed at a reasonable hour. I believe sleep is very important for beauty and health in general. I wake up early and enjoy a run. I make a very light health breakfast for myself. That sets my day up well for either jobs or my days-off regiment. Either way, my days always include special treatment for skin, hair and nails. I believe as a professional model it’s very important to invest in your own health-care, to stay at the highest level, both for yourself and your clients.
What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?
I think one of my distinguishing features as a model relates to a sense of inner strength and independence. I think this comes through in my work and that many women find it encouraging and inspiring. I believe that’s important especially at this moment in history.
What are your plans for the future?
I have never been buser as a model, as the role of the model has evolved a lot. A model today is in a position of influence and from this position I can do a lot of good, such as bringing awareness of sustainability in the fashion industry, animal rights as well as healthy consumerism choices. These are meaningful things which I want to play an even larger role in my future.
What are some of your favorite experiences so far?
Working for the top magazines in the world such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, Elle was extremely special and meaningful to me personally.
Do you have any advice for those who want to start modelling?
I would encourage any young person to choose modelling as a career. My advice would be to go to as many casting events as possible and remember that success does not always happen over night, and the story of the most successful models is about perseverance. Don’t give up!
What do you think of the magazine?
There are many magazines that support the modeling industry and artists, but there are only a few that are dedicated to the modeling industry itself. I appreciate that Modellande is so dedicated to models and their stories, thank you!
instagram: pavel_rn
