Looking at the powerful result that Ferran has captured, one key question comes to mind: Do you think your experience as a dancer influences your work as a model? And given how essential movement is in both disciplines, what does movement in its purest form mean to you?
I don’t dissociate myself as a dancer or a model. For me, dance and movement are everywhere, and that’s what makes it so exciting.
Movement is definitely essential for any photo project, and I believe that beyond beauty standards, the people who stand out and leave a lasting impression are those who know how to move their bodies in a personal and honest way. For me, movement in its purest form means movement shaped by emotions.
We share a deep admiration for choreographer Maguy Marin, whose work Singspiele was performed in Barcelona, the same city where these photos were taken. We’re curious: As a dancer, do you have any upcoming projects or performances planned for Barcelona? Is there anyone, a specific work, or even an experience that particularly inspires your work?
We just performed three shows in Barcelona with the Ballet National de Marseille, and it seems like the audience loved them. For us, it’s always great to perform in Spain because the audience here is so warm and welcoming.
Inspiration comes and goes, and I think it’s important not to force it. Instead, stay curious, keep your eyes open, and the ideas will come naturally.
In your work with (LA) HORDE, the costume plays a crucial role as an artistic statement. Fashion has the power to communicate ideas and emotions, enhancing the movement of dance. How do you think fashion influences the message you want to convey to the audience when you dance? Would you say that the costume becomes a language in your performances?
Costumes—or fashion in general—are a statement. In the work of (La)Horde, costumes play a big role because their work focuses on people and the unique individualities that come together to create a group.
What people choose to wear is a bold affirmation of who they are, whether it’s a deliberate choice that reflects their style or a community they identify with, or an unconscious decision to “just” dress for comfort or practicality—like a cerulean blue sweater, to quote The Devil Wears Prada.
On stage, every detail of a costume is carefully discussed. It needs to be comfortable and aesthetically pleasing but also express the essence of the work and the identity of the characters.
Another passion of HERDES is traveling. As a dancer and model, I imagine you have the opportunity to explore many different destinations. Has there been a place that surprised you so much that you’ve been left wanting to return? Is there any specific destination you consider “home”?
Traveling is my favorite part of my job. Especially because, in the group I work with, there are 15 nationalities, so there’s always someone who knows the local culture or can guide us through the places we visit.
Not too long ago, we toured Japan, and I was blown away by the politeness and creativity of the people there. I stayed for 10 days, but I’ll definitely go back. I think “home” is a place where I feel good and am surrounded by the people I love. And for me, that place has to be sunny. Marseille is slowly becoming a place I call home.
In a previous interview, you defined happiness as some thing unattainable. However, if we interpret it not as a lasting state but as fleeting moments of satisfaction and enjoyment, could you share one of those ephemeral moments of happiness you’ve experienced recently?
Reflecting on the experience in Japan, it was incredible to be so far from “home” and still see how universal art is as a language. The audience was so moved, and that truly made me feel proud and happy.
On a more personal note, my sister recently had a baby—my first nephew—and since then, I’ve been the happiest uncle. That’s definitely a source of long-term happiness for me.
To wrap up this exciting experience we’ve shared with you, what projects or collaborations are you dreaming of pursuing in the future?Additionally, what message would you give to young people who aspire to combine disciplines like dance and modeling?
For the future, I want to keep dancing, but I also want to explore my fashion side even further by collaborating with artists as a model, dancer, or movement director.
I think this “new role” is so specific but has the potential to make a huge difference in any image-related project because movement is essential, and many models don’t really know how to move.
It might sound simple, but my only advice for young people is to try to be themselves as much as possible, stay confident but not arrogant, and, most importantly, have fun and enjoy every moment of creating or performing.
And on a personal note, if this photoshoot could be translated into a song, which one would it be?
If I had to pick a song, I’d say Birds of a Feather by Billie Eilish. This morning’s photoshoot went so smoothly, and it felt amazing—thanks to the team!
Video: Elio Mulas @elio.mulas
Model: Nathan Gombert @nathan_gt_n at New Madison @newmadisonmodels
Style: Cristian Betancurt @betancurt_style
Music: Daniel Miras @danielmiras_
Mua: Laura GB @lauragb_makeup_artist for The Artist Talents @theartistalents
Photo assistant: Lo Resa @bohynekocka