The proudly dusky British fashion model, Gia Johnson Singh is a name synonymous with kohled eyes glowering out of the pages of the magazines like Vogue, Elle and GQ. Born to an English mother and Punjabi father, she grew up in London dabbling in art and theatre. Been scouted umpteen times before owing to her tall stature and unconventionally magnetizing looks, Gia finally pose-and-pouted at the innocent 15. Since that day Gia has been a consistent face on the runways of Paris, London, New York and India. Railing against ‘Snow White Syndrome’ viz; Fair Skin Obsession in India, she has been an inspiration to many girls by sanitizing such biases. Lets know more about Gia Johnson Singh in her own words.
Tell us something about your academics and early life?
I enjoyed school and consistently worked hard in all subjects. I was naturally a higher achiever in the arts so saw a clear direction of where my life was heading at an early age. At the age of 16, I was confident that I wanted to explore further into art and theatre. I had been going to ballet, tap and contemporary classes after school as well as learning the piano so I found a college that specialized in this. It was here that I achieved A-levels in English Literature, Performance Studies, Theatre Studies and Dance.
The dizzying heights you touched make you stand apart from the rest. Tell us something about your journey. How modeling happened to you?
I never wished or hoped to be a model or work in fashion. My heart and passion was in theatre and dance. I got scouted numerous times but it wasn’t until I was 15years old that I took it a little further and told my parents. They were far from happy but eventually met the scout who worked for Elite Paris at the time. She insisted that studying and education were to take priority. I simply went to a few castings and did a few jobs in my summer holidays. It wasn’t until I was 18 that I took it seriously.
Don’t you think modeling comes with a very short shelf life? So what future plans have you held for yourself?
You have different types of models. I would say I fit into a genre that has a slightly longer shelf life than the typical strong editorial girl. I like to keep myself busy and always exploring different avenues. I’m still passionate about the theatre but having spent many years in the fashion industry I would be happy to use my experience and knowledge in something in this field. For now, I am still happily working hard as a model.
Having been in one of the most glamorous industry how do you see fashion as from an insider’s point of view?
I can not knock the hard work that goes on behind the scene, whether it be from the designers, models or creative team as a whole. Its not always as glamorous as everyone thinks. Sure there are far worse jobs out there but it can be very physically and emotionally draining at times. You may not have a day off in weeks/months but then that is balanced off with shooting in the most amazing locations with some beautiful people. It’s important not to take this industry too seriously and be able to laugh at yourself.
What’s your take on increasing number of fashion weeks in India?I think it’s fantastic. India’s fashion industry is hugely underestimated. It’s moving forward fast. I feel very privileged to be a part of it. There is a huge amount of work, sweat and tears that go on behind the scene. I would love to be on the other side of it one day and enjoy and watch the show.
Which designers have you walked for nationally and internationally? Who appealed your aesthetic senses most?
In India, I have worked for so many designers from Anamika Khanna, Tarun Tahiliani, Manish Malohtra….all fabulous. In London, I have walked for Deisel, Levi’s and Agent Provocateur. They all appeal to me for very different reasons. Every designer creates their own personal style and vibe they want to get across. Good music is always a hit with me.
How Indian modeling industry is different from rest of the world? How has been your experience here?
The energy and enthusiasm in India is untouchable. Everyone is eager to produce and perform to their best. India is also spoilt for location. Often when working in London, Paris or New York, we have to shoot in the studio so the mood can be quite somber. I love to travel and every city had their plus and minus but it’s different. Too much of anything can be boring.
How is Gia as a person, which books do you like, what sort of music do you enjoy and all that comprises the most essential part of you other than modeling?
I’m very passionate about my friends and family. I love to make them smile and laugh as much as I can. It’s free and a great medicine. As I travel a lot, the time I do have is precious so I often have people over for dinner parties as I love to cook and entertain. I live by a beautiful park so I often go for long walks and listen to whatever music my mood takes me. As a punjabi girl I love my bhangra but love to wind down to some Lenny Kravtiz or The XX. Beuena Vista Social Club is also a favourite of mine.
What’s your take on fair skin obsessed Indian modeling industry?
Dissapointing to say the least. Beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and colours. Being fair cannot equal success and beauty. Its so rediculous that it makes me quite angry. I understand the history of the concept and where it has originated from but I don’t agree and think we need to move on and wise up. There are many beautiful and successful African women so why should a darker Asian woman suffer. Its 2011. the new generation of children need to be educated on this issue. I don’t think there is enough being done to be honest.
What is your fitness regime, I mean what do you do to always look so presentable?
I’m far from your typical model figure but work hard to maintain a healthy body. My mother teaches Lotte Berk Exercise Method which is similar to pilates and yoga. This is something I can do wherever I am. It’s based on repetitive stationary movements, strengthening your core muscles. I like to combine this with energetic dance classes. Exercise shouldn’t be boring.
What is your greatest achievement till date?
Representing the dusky skin tones of India for the front cover of Vogue, I have had many young girls contact me saying how I have inspired them and helped them move away from feeling unhappy with their skin tone. I’m not the darkest model around but I am promoting a good thing and to be a good role model means a lot to me. To help anyone in life through what you do is a magnificent achievement.
What’s your take on drug abuse and suicides which are so prevalent in modeling industry?
You will attract what you want to attract. I am a firm believer in that. I have honestly not come across it more in the modeling industry. Drugs are everywhere if you mix with certain people in certain places. It’s worrying if young people are misguided, but I was luckily brought up as a strong individual person who does not crumble under peer pressure.
Which social projects are you associated with?
I’ve continued to be a part of the skin whitening awareness project. Doing interviews for radio and news papers. I hope to continue with this and be a good role model.
Five fashion must haves by Gia for fashionfad’s viewers?
Maxi dress – cool, light and elegant. A vintage leather jacket can make anything girly, look edgy. Black stilettos. A must! A long necklace that you can wear around your neck or wrap around your wrist as a bracelet. It’s all about double functions. Good underwear. Feel good inside so you look confident whatever you wear.
How does Gia like to style herself up? Whats her style statement?I love to mix feminine with something rough and masculine. I think sexy black dress looks great with an oversized blazer with the sleeves rolled up.
How do you spend your leisure time?
Playing the piano and cooking. Both are very pleasurable with or without anyone around.
Quick snippets :
Favorite Indian Designers and why? : Monish Maholtra. His energy comes out in every collection. Vibrant and compliments the female body.
Favourite International Designers and why? : Matthew Williamson. His use and fusion of colour.
Favourite Food: Anything spicy.
Favourite Holiday Destination: Maldives
Favourite Perfume: Dior Poison
Your Greatest Fear: Loosing passion
What do you Love and Hate most? : Love the freedom in music, movement and art. Hate racism and arrogance.
What are you addicted to?: Addicted to trying new experiences.
Your Favorite Movie: City of God
Your ultimate Shopping Haven: Vintage markets in Paris
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