A KALTBLUT exclusive. Photography by Kat Kowalczyk. The model is Rio signed at Unite Unite. Styling by Julian Pinto. “As gender becomes more malleable and manipulated in global consciousness, we see new boxes emerging: masculine, feminine, and androgynous, which work to uphold binaries by establishing an either-or and in-the-middle. With this project, we aim to break out of these boxes and capture the soul through light and knowledge.”
“Rio is not oscillating from one binary to the other nor are we striving to place Rio in the middle. Rather, we see Rio’s essence exemplified by elegance. The elegant textures and shapes work to both strengthen and soften Rio’s dynamic features. The light simultaneously blurs and sharpens the images. The setting––the West Village, with its classic brownstones and old and new shops––brings a rich history of art, activism, and change, highlighting the wisdom and nostalgia in Rio’s essence.
And this would not be a fashion spread without some glamour, but the glamour here comes from a sparkle within that whispers subtly to the viewer: let your energy shine. Clothes, in this sense, become complementary to Rio’s soul.”
Photography by Kat Kowalczyk /www.kowenphotos.com / Instagram: @kowenphotos
The model is Rio signed at Unite Unite / Instagram @plantbasedrio
Styling by Julian Pinto / Instagram: @jvariopinto
Fashion by Cos, Mango, Tom Ford, The Row, Johanna Ortiz, Mallarino
@cosstores @mango @tomford @therow @johannaortizofficial @mallarino
Kat Kowalczyk is a talented fashion portrait photographer currently based in the bustling city of New York. Originally hailing from Poland, Kat’s work has been influenced by the rich cultural heritage of her homeland, as well as the constant inspiration and energy of the New York fashion scene. When she’s not behind the lens, Kat loves nothing more than immersing herself in good literature and classic old movies, finding inspiration from the characters and stories that have stood the test of time. With an eye for detail and a passion for capturing the human form, Kat’s work is both powerful and evocative, capturing the essence of her subjects with timeless elegance.
