Akin Jaiye by Corey Myers

A KALTBLUT exclusive male editorial. Model is Akin Jaiye signed at Wilhelmina Models. Photography by Corey Myers.

“Hello, my name is Akin Jaiye. I’m a Nigerian creative. I am a model with Wilhelmina Models based in NYC. I also studied landscape architecture at university and am in love with design across multiple disciplines. Through quarantine, I’ve honed in on photography as well. I was first introduced to modelling by photographer Stephen Hudgins and my sister Ade. I was convinced, by a good friend of mine that I had an opportunity to break down barriers of masculinity within my community. I noticed shortly after I started modelling how easy it was for my white counterparts to emote on, and off, cameras with no restrictions. I felt as if black men should have the same opportunity. A lot of my inspiration is from capturing my nephews on camera—the childish freedom they portray reminds me of how I must be uninhibited on camera. Old pictures of my father also connect me to the roots that give me a strong sense of identity and individuality.
I strive for a sense of authenticity.. and I try to achieve this by being in tune with and savouring emotions, practising deep empathy with others, and trusting creative intuition, always.”

Photography by Corey Myers / coreymyers.darkroom.tech / @cmyers1105
Model is Akin Jaiye signed at Wilhelmina Models/ @akinjaiye
Brands used are 2(x)IST @official2xist / j.crew @jcrew / Fear Of God Denim @fearofgod / Zara Man @zaraman