James McGill: ‘I know now I have the strength and determination to overcome the most challenging of times’
What is beauty? In the Winter issue of IMAGE Magazine, on sale now, creative director Lawson Mpame and director Itchey Drew capture a diverse and unique collective whose lives and industries have been individually shaped by perceptions of beauty, including accessibility advocate James McGill, who shares how his journey with beauty has changed and evolved his perspective and what beauty means to him.
Creative Director’s Notes
The Accessibility Of Beauty
“The pedestal used throughout the shoot is to showcase that these models should be worshipped, celebrated and showcased in beauty. You rarely see a model in a wheelchair represented on magazine covers.” – Lawson Mpame and Itchey Drew
Where do you see or find beauty in your life?
In the relationships and friendships around me.
What does the word “beauty” mean to you?
Beauty is an energy that comes from an inner confidence that radiates outwards.
What has been your personal journey with your own beauty?
Accepting the transition in my life as wheelchair user and realising it doesn’t change who I am as a person.
Did anything change about your approach to beauty while you were on this project?
Understanding beauty really does come from within.
What is your favourite thing about yourself?
My strength and determination to overcome the most challenging of times.
Is there anything you wish you could tell your younger self?
Always appreciate the people in your life who matter.
What’s the one thing you find very beautiful or attractive in others?
Confidence.
What do you love about yourself?
The ability to find the funny in the darkest of moments.
Creative direction Lawson Mpame. Director Itchey Drew. Photography by Wiktoria Bialas and Mark Sosiak. Art Director: Lawson Mpame, Director of photography: Itchey Drew. Lighting: Mark Sosiak, lighting assistants: Denise Kavunov and Fabiola Melo. Stylist: Lorna Spaine. Hair: Maria Whiting. Make-up: Jessy Malone. Choreographer: Jessie Thompson. Runner: Max Korol. Location: D-Light Studios. Set: Ten Four and We Are Platinum. Clothing: French Connection and Primark. Special thanks to Camerakit.ie.
IMAGE Winter 2023
The Winter issue of IMAGE is here, and festive sparkles are on our mind, from our fashion shoot full of party-ready pieces to the home of jeweller Chupi Sweetman-Durney which is full of glinting gold. Plus, we learn how to make the most of festive leftovers, and are planning a winter break to remember. Plus: * Big knits * Cool corduroy * In studio with Pearl Reddington * Audrey Hepburn’s Irish connections * Confidence at work * A Kilimanjaro adventure * Beauty gifts to give yourself * Practical magic * A ski retreat with a difference * Weekend escapes * and so much more…
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