For Shanghai-Born Model Tin Gao, Beauty is All About Perspective
"Humans are both perfect and imperfect. We embrace what is given from mother earth and communicate with the ground."
We ask five creators who have mastered the art of unconventional beauty to share their thoughts on movements that celebrate what were once considered “flaws” and the impact of social media on the progressive beauty scene.
With such a distinct and memorable face, it’s no wonder Shanghai-born, London-based model and design student Tin Gao has a good number of projects under her belt. From getting photographed by Hendrik Schneider for an Asai lookbook to starring in Askjell’s music video for single Requiem, creators everywhere have found a muse in Gao, with her unique wideset features, thin eyebrows, and striking presence.
Gao now models for London’s Anti-Agency and has been featured in many publications since moving to London at the age of 19. Gao has turned the profession and skill into one of her strengths. “It was a surprise for me,” shares the model when we asked about how she was discovered by her agency. “I was discovered in my university canteen while eating chips,” she jokes.
Has becoming a model influenced your perception of beauty?
I did not know that creativity could make things that unique and unpredictable with precious opportunities. I’m always inspired by people as they help me understand a little bit more about myself. Using your body as a medium also helps us with expression. And one’s appearance might mean something completely different if we just look at things from another perspective.
Has your perception of your own beauty changed over the years?
No, it’s the same as when I was a kid.
What are your thoughts on the appreciation that people have for your unique features?
I am quite lucky that I get to meet a lot of fun people through my work and get to communicate with audiences in various ways. From these interactions, my ideas and thoughts jump out of a white box and give me a new space. And that’s where the beauty comes from.
Personally, how do you view beauty?
Humans are both perfect and imperfect. We embrace what is given from mother earth and communicate with the ground.
