We had the good fortune of connecting with Chrissy Taylor and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chrissy, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I chose an artistic creative career as a model to express my creativity and connect with others through the art of visual storytelling. From a young age, I have been fascinated by the way fashion and photography can convey emotions and stories through body language and design. Modeling for me is an outlet to express who I am, while also challenging myself to embody different characters and perspectives.

As a model, my body becomes a dynamic canvas creating various forms of art that influence and inspire others. This ability to influence and inspire others is something that excites me and motivates me every day. Modeling is not just about physical appearance, but about representing different facets of beauty, and inspiring others to feel confident in their own skin.

Pursuing a modeling career allows me to keep growing, learn new skills, experiment with different looks, and constantly evolve as both an artist and an individual. It’s a way for me to engage with the world and leave a lasting impression, while also embarking on an endless journey of self-expression and transformation.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a freelance model, I often create my own concepts for my photoshoots, effectively stepping into the role of creative director. It is this unique characteristic that sets me apart from other models. Not only can I model a brand, but I can also produce fresh concepts to highlight the brand creatively.

I take particular pride in my artistic photoshoots. I do not just create pretty pictures, I turn my body into art, crafting out-of-the-box concepts that showcase my creativity.

Becoming a versatile model was not easy. I was upset that doors were not opening for me, so I created my own opportunities by reaching out to talented photographers in the area and collaborating with them on photoshoots. This allowed me to diversify my portfolio and show brands and agencies the work I can do on my own as a model and creative director. This experience taught me the importance of perseverance; I learned not to succumb to discouragement when opportunities seem scarce. It illustrated the accomplishments possible when I take charge of my own career.

I want the world to recognize Chrissy Taylor as a dynamic force within the modeling industry. Despite my petite stature, I command attention on every set I grace, an aura that is palpable in the photographs I create. Being in front of the camera empowers me and allows me to inspire other women to embrace their bodies and live boldly.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend visited the Bull City, the first place I would take them is Unscripted. I am obsessed with the rooftop and pool. Plus, during the holidays, they offer stylish igloos which enhance the experience. We could also visit the lounge to enjoy a refined cocktail.

For dinner, we would go to La Mala. We love Mexican cuisine, and this restaurant offers some of the finest Mexican dishes in Durham, complemented by an inviting ambiance. Additionally, they offer an impressive selection of mocktails. For a nightcap, we would enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz at Missy Lane’s Assembly Room. If we were in the mood to shop till, we dropped, we would check out The Streets at Southpoint Mall.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
An organization that deserves a shoutout for my success is Mesh Dollhouse. Mesh Dollhouse is a mentorship and coaching program specifically designed for women. I was introduced to this organization when I applied for the opportunity to be a billboard model for their annual women’s empowerment billboard campaign. I was fortunate enough to be featured alongside thirteen other remarkable plus-size women on a billboard, an experience that profoundly impacted my life.

Previously, I had never envisioned myself as a plus-size woman being prominently displayed on a billboard. This transformative experience served as motivation for me to actively pursue my aspirations of becoming a signed model. Recognizing that I needed guidance on this journey, I joined Mesh Dollhouse for personal development support. Through this organization, I cultivated discipline and discovered a supportive community that quickly became my tribe.

Website: https://www.plusmodelchrissytaylor.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamchrissytaylor/

Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@iamchrissytaylor

Image Credits
Photographers:
Bryant Lindsay
Court Winter
Veronica Mossed

Hair and Makeup Artists:
Fayme Pope
Brittany Mangum
Natresha GlamU

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutNorthCarolina is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.