Sylph Sia - Friend, Muse, Fine-art Model
Q: When you were at school, how did you picture your life going?
A: All my life I’ve been really interested in the creative arts and performing arts. In high school I was part of various bands, art, drama, theatre, photography club – I was always immersed in the arts. But I never thought that would be my career. When I finished school, I actually started a law degree and thought I’d end up in a standard corporate job. Around that time I began fine art modelling, but I didn’t see it as a career either. Later, after an arts degree in English and Modern History and some corporate work, I decided to give modelling a full-time go – and I’m still here.
Q: Has your modelling only ever been fine art, or did you try fashion modelling too?
A: I started out quite randomly – my hairdresser got me into modelling! From there I joined websites like Model Mayhem and worked with photographers who shot fine art styles. I was curious about it because it felt more open and challenging, using my body as the creative medium. It fit my creative interests perfectly.
Q: Has modelling had any detrimental effects on your life?
A: Not really. It hasn’t held me back from doing anything I’ve truly wanted to pursue. Sure, there are some professions where it might be an issue – like teaching or roles requiring high-level security clearance – but I never wanted to go down those paths anyway.
Q: Any regrets, or would you have done anything differently?
A: I’m really grateful for how my life has unfolded, and I’m happy with my choices. The only thing I’d change is not letting certain partners in my early twenties hold me back from travelling and shooting more. I’d tell my younger self: don’t compromise your path just to keep someone else comfortable.
Q: Have you had any negative experiences in the industry, and how did you deal with them?
A: When I started out in 2010, social media wasn’t what it is now. I didn’t really know about safety practices like reference checks. After a couple of negative experiences, I reached out to more experienced models on Model Mayhem, and they explained what was normal and what wasn’t. From then on, I learned to check references and talk with others in the community. Now, with social media, it’s much more widely understood that you should lean on the community for safety and advice.
Q: Do you enjoy what you’re doing?
A: Absolutely. I wouldn’t have lasted this long if I didn’t love it. It’s a huge passion for me, something I’m constantly inspired by. Like any creative pursuit, there are ups and downs, but overall my motivation and inspiration have been really steady.