Today it is my pleasure and honor to interview Plastic Martyr, an American transgender high fashion print and runway model, as well as a singer and creative force. Known for her bold style, striking looks, and fearless authenticity, Plastic Martyr began her modeling career unexpectedly after a viral MySpace photo at age 14 caught the attention of photographers and designers alike. Since then, she has become a recognizable face in fashion, celebrated for her work with major designers and her unapologetic presence in an industry that's slowly learning to embrace trans beauty. A self-described “weird kid with blue hair and cool clothes,” she defied gender norms from the moment she could walk, favoring Barbies, princess dreams, and her mother’s makeup over anything else.
Her journey is not only about fashion and music, but also about visibility, strength, and the importance of owning one’s truth, whether on the runway, in a recording studio, or just walking down the street in big sunglasses and black leggings. Plastic Martyr is now expanding her creative reach with a budding music career, having recently released a new single titled “Waiting.” Throughout it all, she remains grounded in gratitude toward the people who supported her rise, from her ever-supportive mother to her publicist and close collaborators. She is proof that living boldly, beautifully, and authentically is not only possible, it’s powerful.
Monika: Hello, Plastic Martyr! It’s such a joy to speak with a sister who’s not only thriving in the world of modeling but also breaking boundaries while doing it. How does it feel to be seen as a role model by so many in our community?
Plastic Martyr: Hello, love! It feels surreal sometimes. I never set out to be a role model, I just wanted to be myself and live authentically. But knowing that my journey resonates with others makes it all worth it. It reminds me why visibility matters so much. If my presence helps even one person feel seen or inspired, then I’ve done something right.
Monika: For those just getting to know you, how would you describe yourself and the path that led you into the spotlight?
Plastic Martyr: Well, for those of you who are new to hearing my name, I’m a 25-year-old transgender celebrity. I’m mostly known for being one of the big transgender models and recently just started doing some music! It’s been an exciting ride so far, and I’m always evolving as an artist. I love pushing creative boundaries and surprising people with new sides of myself.
|
| Photo by fashion photographer Michael Danger. |
Monika: Do you remember when you first realized that gender norms just weren’t going to define you? Was there a moment in your early years when you felt the freedom to simply be yourself?
Plastic Martyr: Hmmm, probably around 2 or 3 years old. Honestly, I’ve always been like this. I played with Barbies, wore pink, played with my mom's makeup, and always wanted to be a princess when I was a little kid. I never felt like I was doing anything wrong, I was just being me. Looking back, I’m grateful that I had the instinct to follow my truth, even before I had the words to explain it.
Monika: Your modeling career has such a distinctive flair, how did it all begin? Was there a turning point when you realized this could become more than just a one-time photoshoot?
Plastic Martyr: It was so random. I never wanted or expected to be a model. I was just a weird kid with blue hair and cool clothes. A photographer on MySpace asked to photograph me when I was 14. I said okay, and one photo went viral. I started getting more and more requests to model for photographers, and then designers started contacting me, and then magazines… and it just grew. I think it caught me by surprise how quickly things snowballed. Looking back, that one spontaneous shoot changed my entire life.
Monika: With your bold and edgy sense of style, I imagine you draw inspiration from some iconic fashion houses. Which designers have truly captured your heart?
Plastic Martyr: That’s a tough one… I have SO many. But Versace and Mugler are the two I live for. Their designs are fearless, theatrical, and completely unapologetic, just like I strive to be. I’ve always admired how both brands celebrate powerful femininity and bold individuality.
Monika: Transgender models have made a remarkable impact on the fashion world, from legends like Roberta Close to powerful figures today like Lea T, Andreja Pejić, and, of course, you. What do you think draws the fashion industry to embrace transgender women so strongly?
Plastic Martyr: Fashion is a universal addiction. It doesn’t matter if you’re Black, white, gay, straight, or biologically male or female. I think it’s amazing that FINALLY the fashion industry is taking transgender beauty and putting it to good use. We have many “high fashion features” that I don’t think we’d have had if we were born biologically female. There’s a uniqueness and rawness that we bring to the runway and the camera. I think the industry is finally realizing that true beauty doesn’t fit in a box.
|
| Album cover for Plastic Martyrs new single "Waiting" (photo by Josh Romine). |
Monika: Your modeling journey has been filled with striking moments on the runway and in front of the camera. Could you share some highlights from your most memorable fashion shows or campaigns that you feel truly defined your career?
Plastic Martyr: They have all been a success to me. With every show or shoot comes another project or opportunity for me. So I am so grateful to everyone who has given me a chance and believed in me. It’s in large part thanks to these photographers and designers that I am where I am. And not a day goes by that I don’t silently thank and appreciate them. Each experience has shaped me in a different way, and I’ve learned something valuable from every project. The fashion world can be tough, but these moments make it all worth it.
Monika: When you're off the runway and just enjoying your day-to-day life, what does your personal style look like? Do you have any favorite go-to outfits or colors that define your casual fashion?
Plastic Martyr: I'm usually in black leggings, a black sports bra, and big sunglasses. I’m pretty low-maintenance, actually. I love comfort and simplicity when I’m not working, so I stick to pieces that let me move freely and feel good. But even in casual wear, I always try to keep a touch of glam, it’s all about the attitude!
Monika: Besides modeling, you’ve also stepped into the world of music. What inspired you to explore singing, and how would you describe your sound?
Plastic Martyr: Yes, well… I’m no Adele. But I’ve always loved music. It’s always been a huge part of my life, whether I’m singing along in the car or working on a melody in the studio. Music lets me express emotions that words alone sometimes can’t capture.
Monika: Were there any icons or public figures who influenced your style, creativity, or confidence while growing up?
Plastic Martyr: I mostly marched to the beat of my own drum. But one of the artists who truly inspired me growing up is Marilyn Manson. Also, Madonna and Fiona Apple were two others that still, to this day, inspire me with their “give no fucks” attitude. Their boldness and individuality helped me embrace my own uniqueness. I always admired how unapologetically themselves they were, no matter the criticism.
|
| Photo by fashion photographer Michael Danger. |
Monika: Are there any women in your life or in the public eye today whom you deeply admire and respect?
Plastic Martyr: My mommy, for sure. She is the only person who has ever had my back 100% from day one and been there for me, making me feel like I had the power to be who I wanted to be. Also, my amazing publicist Julie Anderson from Blu PR is another woman who has shown me so much respect and believes in me as an artist. And I admire and respect pretty much all ladies, it’s still a very different world for women, and we (yes, I include myself in that) need support and strength. The world often forgets how hard women have to fight for space, respect, and safety. That’s why I cherish the sisterhood and try to uplift other women whenever I can.
Monika: Coming out can be a challenging journey for many. What was the hardest part for you when embracing and sharing your true self with others?
Plastic Martyr: Honestly, I never really came out. I was always this way and embraced it. I knew from day one this is who I am and who I was supposed to be. It never felt like a choice or something to hide, it was just me living my truth. Of course, that doesn’t mean it’s always easy, but being authentic has always been my path.
Monika: How do you feel about the way transgender stories and characters have been portrayed in films, television, newspapers, and books so far? Are there any portrayals you find particularly meaningful or problematic?
Plastic Martyr: Some of them I appreciate. Like Laverne Cox’s character in Orange Is The New Black, I think it’s amazing. And Jill Soloway’s show Transparent I love and think really humanizes trans people. It’s amazing. Some other stories I feel still do a disservice to the trans community and make a mockery out of us. We still have a long way to go in terms of authentic representation and respect. It’s crucial that our stories are told by trans people themselves, so the nuances and truths of our lives shine through.
Monika: Are you involved in political activism or advocacy? Do you participate in any lobbying efforts? In your opinion, how much impact can queer people have on politics today?
Plastic Martyr: I am not very active in politics; I do, however, vote and encourage everyone else to do the same. I do think trans and LGBT people DO very much make a difference in politics. In fact, I’d like for more to get involved. There is still SO much hate in America towards LGBT people and it’s very scary. Something definitely needs to be done. Our voices and votes are powerful tools for change, and visibility in politics helps challenge prejudice. I truly believe that when queer people unite and engage, we can shift society toward greater acceptance and equality.
|
| Album cover for Porcelain Fangs. Photo by Michael Danger. |
Monika: How important is love in your life right now? Could you share your current thoughts on romance and relationships?
Plastic Martyr: At the moment, I’ve taken a little hiatus from men, sex, romance… etc. I have been focusing on my work. Boys are such a distraction. I have always dated straight-identifying men, and they don’t always treat me with the respect I deserve, so I’m no longer willing to be a dark secret of theirs and degrade myself just to have a little romance. I believe love should be uplifting and empowering, not something that diminishes your self-worth. Right now, my priority is to love and respect myself first before inviting anyone else in.
Monika: What new projects are you currently working on? Any exciting releases or upcoming surprises you can share?
Plastic Martyr: I'm releasing my next single, “Waiting,” in April. And I have a few other surprises in the works. I’m really excited about this new music direction because it shows a different side of me. Stay tuned, there’s a lot more creativity coming your way soon!
Monika: Plastic Martyr, thank you for the interview!
Main photo credits: Polina Neshpor.
All the photos: Courtesy of Plastic Martyr.
© 2015 - Monika Kowalska
No comments:
Post a Comment