There are many different interpretations of what is considered art. Although the most common is the kind that is either sculpted, drawn, or painted, art in general is extremely objective. Senior Karli Winfrey considers herself to be an artist in an unconventional way: modeling.

“To me modeling is another form of art,” said Winfrey. “Expression and design is another projection of self and modeling is what helps portray design”.

Winfrey, who describes herself as being easy going, personable, and inclusive, started modeling just last month. Despite her inexperience, she has not struggled with booking gigs and had the opportunity to walk the runway twice within the month of September.

Winfrey admitted that walking in heels was something she had to perfect before starting to model. Winfrey described the first time she walked down the runway as “extremely intense.”

“My first time walking I was really nervous,” said Winfrey. “In modeling, you’re the focus, and I’m pretty insecure when being watched and looked at, but after getting past that, you have an adrenaline rush, which is a great feeling.”

Jordan Dunn, Chanel Iman, and Ajak Deng are a few famous models that Winfrey looks up to. Winfrey finds Deng inspiring because she is African American and has short hair, like Winfrey. According to Winfrey,  Deng proves that you do not have to have the so-called ‘look’ to be successful in the modeling industry.

Besides modeling, Winfrey is involved in stage crew at U of D Jesuit; she contributes as a member of B.A.S.E., and she is the co-founder of the Mercy Film Club. In the future Winfrey plans on “dabbling” in modeling but is not interested in it as a full-fledged career.

“The whole climate would change if I started doing it as a livelihood, so it [will] be more of a hobby for me,” said Winfrey.