Behind the Image is an ongoing MODELS.com series taking a more personal look at both established and emerging creative talent.
Amidat Giwa| Image courtesy of Bryant Artists
Amidat Giwa, Hair Stylist
Hometown: London, England
Based: London, England
Representation: Bryant Artists
How would you describe your work? What’s your trademark?
My work is something that’s always evolving as I grow. My influences mainly came from the various subcultures, whether that be London 00’s, African traditional, American pop, Punk, etc… the various textures, shapes, cuts and braids. There’s something for us all to connect with and I love to portray that with my work.
How did you get into your chosen career?
My mother is a hairdresser, and I naturally gravitated towards helping her. I guess that was my first assisting role. I later decided to take it seriously and focus on my craft. I learned as much as I could, and then my journey started.
What other jobs have you had?
Since I was young I’ve always done hair. When I wasn’t assisting my mum in her shop, my friends and the local community would pay me to do their hair.
What have you watched/heard/read lately that has inspired you?
I have recently been going through a book based on album covers called FUNK & SOUL by Joaquim Paulo. It’s filled with inspiring artwork from front to back.
What do you love about what you do?
I love that I get to create with other talented artists and travel the world, meeting interesting people and learning and unlearning.
What have been the biggest challenges you have faced professionally?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced professionally is becoming consistently better than I was yesterday. With how quickly fashion changes, it’s always a challenge to stay within the subjective perspective and keep that momentum.
What’s one thing outside of your work that you would like people to know about you?
I have a Law degree that, till now, has not seen the light of day, but if It did, Elle Woods would have nothing on me, mate !!
One to watch?
Kreszend Sackey & Avrelle Delisser
Selected Work
Adit Priscilla by Alexandra Leese | Image courtesy of Bryant Artists
Five
My first time creating a braided wig, and the way it was captured felt very strong to me.
Nyaduola Gabriel & Anyier Anei by Alexandra Gordienko | Image courtesy of Bryant Artists
Pick Up
Honestly, I just love the photo composition. It was cold, and the models were amazing in those outfits.
Aweng Chuol by Alexandra Leese | Image courtesy of Bryant Artists
Summer Breeze
I love this picture because it kind of gives me nostalgia! It uses traditional Nigerian hairstyles in a way that feels fresh and raw, not too styled, but obviously, the threading is a look that balances.
Byul Kim by Nadine Ijewere | Image courtesy of Bryant Artists
Rouge Fashionbook x Simone Rocha
Whoever knows me knows I live for a good liberty spike. I find the hair, the flower, the red and black colours, and the styling quite rebellious, which I feel is very London.
Kingsley Ben Adir by Heji Shin | Image courtesy of Bryant Artists
Gucci Horsebit 1953 Loafer 2024 Campaign
A milestone for me in my career as it signifies to me the progress I have made.
