This story is taken from the Winter/Spring 2025 issue of Another Man, which is on sale internationally from October 31. Order here:
This project explores the intersection of mysticism and masculinity through a lens of sensuality and mystic symbolism. It draws on the concept of “city pirates” as a metaphor for modern men who navigate urban life with a sense of adventure, rebellion and mystery. By blending mystical elements with a subversive take on traditional masculinity, the project seeks to challenge conventional ideas of gender and style, offering a new, fluid vision of male identity.
The approach evolved organically; it began with Johnny [Dufort], as we immersed ourselves in a rich tapestry of references that helped shape the concept of this mystical pirate world. However, we wanted to ground that world somewhere between fantasy and reality – a liminal space where dreams and the everyday coexist. It’s like a pocket of the multiverse where sorcerers and sirens intersect, blending myth and modernity to create a new narrative.
The core inspirations came from the world of pirates – particularly the mysticism surrounding pirate crews and life aboard a ship. Elements like sirens, mystical magic and the ship’s masthead were central to building this narrative. We weren’t just drawing from literal references; rather, we sought to weave together these fragments to create a story that felt organic and lived-in, rather than something overly constructed.
From there, we curated the cast, consisting mainly of family and friends. I’m always drawn to stories that visually captivate but also create a sense of relatability – where the audience can see themselves in the narrative. Casting for me is less about finding the perfect look and more about embodying the emotions we want to convey. For example, casting my mother adds an intimate layer to the images, as her personality shines through when she’s in front of the camera. Similarly, casting my brothers or band members brings an authentic synergy and chemistry that’s difficult to manufacture.
One of my primary goals in menswear is to redefine masculinity in a way that’s not in opposition to femininity, but rather in harmony with it. I want to create a version of masculinity that embraces femininity as an integral part of itself, instead of viewing it as something separate or conflicting. It’s about fostering a sense of balance – where vulnerability and strength, sensuality and power, can coexist without fear or hesitation. Ultimately, I hope to contribute to a broader narrative that celebrates fluidity in gender expression, allowing men to explore new ways of being.
While it may not always be overt in specific moments, my Caribbean heritage deeply influences my worldview, offering a rich foundation of storytelling, mysticism and identity. This project reflects that – bringing together the varied experiences and cultural influences that characterise heritage. It’s not just a lens through which I create; it also grounds my exploration of mysticism and masculinity, giving it depth and authenticity. In a way, my heritage acts as an anchor, allowing me to explore complex ideas while staying connected to something deeply personal and meaningful.
In my work, I aim to celebrate the confluence of heritage, culture and innovation that defines Caribbean life, particularly within the communities of the Cayman Islands. The vibrancy of Caribbean culture is shaped by community leaders and everyday individuals who embody both tradition and forward-thinking ideas. My muses often use performance as a strategy to navigate and reinterpret culture, reflecting the essence of Caribbean life – one that honours its roots while constantly evolving. I’m particularly inspired by the dynamic energy found in community events like Batabanoo, Carnival and Cayman Pirates Week. These festivals are more than just celebrations; they encapsulate the spirit of creativity, resilience and communal joy that runs through the Caribbean. It’s this local, ever-present dynamism that I want to bring to life in my work – a blend of tradition and innovation that speaks to both the past and the future.
At its core, this project is about reimagining masculinity and exploring how culture and innovation intersect in Caribbean life. I want viewers to question their preconceptions about gender, culture and identity, while also embracing the idea of play and imagination. The images of sorcerers and pirates serve a dual purpose: they pose important questions about who we are and how we see the world, but they also remind us of the value of creativity, exploration and wonder in all aspects of life. My goal is to inspire people to think more expansively – not only about masculinity and culture, but about the limitless possibilities of imagination.
Hair: Shiori Takahashi at Streeters using L’Oreal Professionnel. Make-up: Thom Walker at Art and Commerce. Models: Abiral, Alva Claire at IMG Models, Asa, Cookie at W Models Management, Fayona Barnes, Monchan and Yuki from Bo Ningen, Roman Erol Mounir, Seb at Named Models, Taka at W Models Management and Xavier Edwards. Casting: Theo Spencer. Set design: Max Bellhouse at The Magnet Agency. Photographic assistants: Alberto Gualtieri and Sasha Vanner. Styling assistants: Curtiss Holley and Gloria Thomas. Hair assistant: Raushana Hill. Make-up assistant: Martha Inuoe. Set design assistant: Rufus Wilkinson. Production: Abbie Cockerell at DoBeDo Represents. Production assistants: Zoe Irene and Tom Williams
This article features in the Winter/Spring 2025 issue of Another Man, which is on sale internationally from 31 October, 2024. Order here.