model citizen >>> karen

What made you decide to become a model?
Actually alot of things prompted the decision, I had modeled for a State-wide store chain for over 3 years several years ago. I stopped to raise my family and to try and be a good Mom.

I was in the Mrs. Iowa Pageant 98/99 not placing but richer for having participated and I also learned alot as far as what hard work can achieve. I already had an online site for my writing I have been published in "5" poetry anthologies. On that site I had a few images so that people would know who I was.

I was encouraged by family and friends to persue the modeling venue. I actually didn't think that I stood a chance at this by being a mature model. I did find sites on the web where I could post images of myself and ask questions. So I did....I felt that the more mature model could have a place in the modeling world at that time if only on the web. I started my domain in 1999 and it has grown to having worked to this time with over 30 photogs from all over the country. I enjoy working on the site and adding to it.

What is the hardest thing of being a model?
Well, there are several aspects to this answer. Long hours shooting, and being away from home for days at a time. I think one of the hardest things for me was to break the barrier as far as the "Age" thing and that you can be sensuous and marketable at any age. Getting some to see this is a challenge at times. to keep going when you ask yourself is it really worth it, and yes it is. Sometimes it feels like an uphill battle, and it takes alot of time and energy to do this, you have to want to or it won't work.

What projects do you feel best describes you as a model?
Outdoor shoots I love being outdoors, or in my garden I also am an avid gardener. Fun shoots where you can laugh and be yourself. Beaches, I love the beaches restful and peaceful.

What has been your most exciting gig as a model?
I would have to say working with Art Ketchum in Chicago, he has so much talent. I was asked to test with him He is an icon in the photography business and he also has published photography books and given workshop seminars. He is so real and genuine....and I think his shots prove it. It was an exciting experience indeed..

Are you involved in any charity work at the moment?
Yes, The American Cancer Association....Women's Health. This is something that is very special to me. Getting the information out there for women to get screening for potentially life-threatening diseases. Especially for women in lower income groups, and all ages.

What is the biggest misunderstanding about yourself?
That I cannot project myself as a sensuous person which I am. I don't feel that age hinders that Beauty is ageless and should come from within ones self. And I guess I would have to say one of the biggest misconceptions would have to be that mature models have no place in the modeling world, they indeed do...especially now when the largest market of consumers today in the mainstream population is the "Baby-Boomer".

Who have been some of your main influences?
Wow , there are so many. Candace Bergen, Sela Ward, Cheryl Tiegs,Cher, Kim Cattral, Goldie Hawn to name a few there are so many postive role models for the mature woman....and I might add the magazine More this is a publication for the mature woman. And of course Tracey Walker, the First Internet Super Model.

Tell us about your upcoming projects, activities and or events.
Being more involved in the Spokesmodeling I will be doing for TAI/Envio Weights that I will be doing in the coming year. Traveling to all the locations for tradeshows such as Amsterdam, Brazil, France. I will also be the lead model in all of the print ads for the company. As well as attending special events: http://www.cateyes4u.com there you will find what I will be doing and the events.

Continuing with working with Exotic Cars Magazine when possible. Attending workshops in my area and others for models and photogs when I am able to. I hope to be attending the Net Model Expo in 2001 as well.

Continuing working with the Net Models Organization which I am on the board of....this is a very important project for me helping other models beginning and professional as far as safety etc.

All photos and graphics courtesy of www.cateyes4u.com and published with permission.