ISAIAH HAMILTON: BLURRING THE LINES BETWEEN FASHION AND STORYTELLING
- Līga Zemture
- Dec 19, 2024
- 5 min read
Interview by Laura Kisle
In an industry that thrives on surface impressions, Isaiah Hamilton effortlessly transcends the boundaries of fashion, art, and storytelling. With a career highlighted by appearances in luxury campaigns alongside icons like Kim Kardashian and Nicki Minaj, and a personal journey fueled by a love for science fiction, art, and self-expression, Isaiah is more than a face for high-profile projects; he’s a storyteller crafting visual narratives.
Photo Oseaan Wulf @oseaanwulfphoto
Style Mike Stallings @mikestallingsny
Model Isaiah Hamilton @isaiahkhamilton
From shooting his own groundbreaking editorial in South Africa with African wildlife to imagining projects inspired by the surrealism of Yayoi Kusama and the cinematic allure of science fiction classics, Isaiah’s approach to modeling transcends expectations. His creativity, rooted in a childhood of imagination and a fearless pursuit of growth, radiates in every project he takes on.
In this exclusive LÉOPARD Magazine interview, Isaiah shares his inspirations, and his vision for the future of art and fashion.
His words, like his work,
remind us that true artistry SKIMS the surface only to dive deeper,
bridging worlds and inviting others to experience the infinite.
Who would be your ultimate dream collaborator—designer, artist, or photographer—and what kind of magic would you create together?
If I could collaborate with a dream creative—designer, artist, or photographer—it would be like stepping into a shared dreamscape with Steven Klein, Yayoi Kusama (she’s incredible), or Mert and Marcus. Steven Meisel would also be amazing. Maybe for Giorgio Armani, Louis Vuitton, or Gucci, or a major publication like GQ or Vogue. Together, we’d weave a universe where time bends and boundaries dissolve—a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and emotions.
I’ve always been inspired by science fiction and fantasy. Movies from the 1980s like “The Terminator”, “RoboCop”, and “Mad Max”, as well as later films like “The Matrix” and “Dune 2”, have shaped my imagination. I’ve always dreamed of shooting something that looks like I’m on a different planet.
I would want to blend art and language; I’m always trying to tell a story. It wouldn’t just be creation—it would be transcendence. A magical realm where art, words, and light collide, inviting everyone to lose themselves and rediscover the infinite. An artist creates and wants the world to experience—like “Snowfall.” If a picture is worth a thousand words, then each picture I’d take would be a short film. That’s how much of a story I desire to tell.
Does creativity play a role in your life outside of modeling, and if so, how do you express it?
Outside of modeling, creativity feels like an endless collaboration with the world. I grew up an only child, so my imagination became the first airplane I ever flew on. It helped me see the world in unique ways. I almost feel like an architect, designing a masterpiece with my life.
I’m always working on myself, learning new skills, and creating the man I’ve always wanted to be. Creativity is in everything I do—music, writing, clothes, and my own photography. It’s my compass, guiding me and shaping the way I live.
And one unexpected detail?
Everyone who knows me knows I’m a huge animal lover, but I’m actually afraid of horses. Their kick is fast and devastating! I haven’t been around them enough to understand their temperament.
What are your favorite places to visit, dine, or explore in the world’s fashion capitals?
Cape Town, South Africa, is my favorite place on Earth. I love most places in Africa, actually—and Jamaica too. Milan, Italy, is another favorite. Every time I go, I do a pizza tour and have the time of my life, lol. I love the Italian culture and people; they’re so warm and welcoming to me.
Top APOTTS / Pants APOTTS / Boots PRADA
How do you see the interplay of art, storytelling, and fashion evolving in today’s industry?
The evolution is boundless. Fashion becomes a portal, art becomes wearable, and stories become eternal. Creativity knows no boundaries. I see creatives, artists, and designers taking bigger risks in the near future, pushing the limits of what’s possible.
What’s next for you—any exciting projects or visions we should look forward to?
I’m planning a trip to shoot a fashion story in Iceland. The landscape and beauty of that country are unmatched. I’m putting a team together now, and I can’t wait to bring this vision to life.
What has been the most unforgettable moment in your modeling career so far?
By far, creating and shooting my own story in South Africa with African wild animals. It was a dream come true, and it all came together at the very last minute. I struggled and cried trying to make it happen, and how everything fell into place was nothing short of miraculous. That shoot changed my life. I couldn’t believe I’d accomplished something like that.
It was a moment in time. So many things could’ve gone wrong, but I was divinely guided. It was pure magic.
You’ve shared the spotlight with icons like Kim Kardashian and Nicki Minaj—how did those experiences shape your understanding of fashion’s influence?
It helped me understand the difference between success and impact. I remember men and women from different parts of the world telling me how Nicki Minaj’s music helped them learn English. I knew she was big, but hearing that put things into perspective for me.
Kim’s aura is something else—her power and the way she inspires people is undeniable. Being around them felt like standing in the presence of giants. If I had to choose between money or power after seeing their influence, I’d lean toward power.
In your opinion, what transforms a photoshoot from ordinary to extraordinary?
When you don’t just create an image but capture a mood or a feeling. It’s about capturing essence.
That magic happens when the photographer becomes an artist, the model becomes a muse, and the camera becomes a bridge to another world. And lastly, you need love—the most powerful force on this planet.
If you could step into an iconic artwork and bring it to life through modeling, which piece would you choose and why?
Probably a Vincent van Gogh or Basquiat painting—or a Jean-Paul Goude illustration. These pieces are alive. When I look at them, they move; they’re flowing with life.
Most people go through life waiting to die, but I’m dying to live. I want to feel alive and experience everything. These artworks speak to me in a language only artists understand. They represent serenity and chaos—the perfect balance. In ordinary life, most people only experience one or the other. It would be an opportunity to live in pure alchemy.
