Beautiful

Marlen Boro | Playful & Confident

BELLE THE SLEEPING CAR SAID IT BEST WHEN SHE POINTED OUT THAT LOOKS AND YOUTH AIN’T EVERYTHING AND EXPERIENCE IS A QUALITY THAT COUNTS FOR A LOT. SHE SAID IT IN A NOSTALGIC SENSE, BUT REGARDLESS OF THAT SHE SAID IT AS A TRUTH AND IT MADE PEARL REALIZE THAT TRUE LOVE GOES DEEPER THAN LOOKS AND AGE.

You have no idea what we are talking about, do you. Above introduction is a reference to Starlight Express, the musical in which toy railway trains played by actors on roller skates come to life inside the mind of a small boy. In a Cinderella kind of setting, the characters race to become the fastest engine in the world. At the end, old locomotive Rusty takes the unexpected victory, triumphing over the muscled diesel Grease Ball and the sleek computerized Electra. Flanked by his race partner Belle, the older glamorous sleeping car he eventually wins the best price of all: the heart of observation car Pearl.

I’m not saying anything new when I tell you we are living in a world driven by youth and beauty. It is a social thing, really. Where ever you look – in magazines, on billboards, on TV, yes even in bars when you go out – it seems like so-called perfection is staring you in the face, and it is getting younger and younger. And it is probably no surprise either when we tell you this is certainly a given for the whole gay culture. There definitely seems to be a youth-obsession thing going on. But we seem to forget we are getting older. All of us. But don’t be scared. Getting older does have its advantages as well.

Max Dennis is wonderful. He is a fashion model but – as photographer Marlen Boro discovered – is also very comfortable when asked to push the bar a bit higher. See, that is one thing that comes with age. Sensibility. Confident. Calm. "We did a shoot that was designed to be very sexy," Marlen Boro explains. "We played with masculine outfits, combined with playful rhinestones. I really like the outcome. A good mix of images that tell the story of the day: mature playfulness, a naughty undertone and a sexual vibrancy." Marlen Boro’s work generally has a strong sexual element, but always in a very classy style. With Max he went for a very in-your-face direction. “The ‘I’m sexy and enjoy my own beautiful body’ feel to the images as a whole is key to the story and the point being made. That as we age as gay men, we don’t need to be respectable, somber or boring. We can contribute to be playful, sexy and proud.”

The point is, life is more than being 20 or 30 years old. Our ways of living has shifted from some generations ago and age should not longer be a limitation. On the contrary. Experience, knowledge – yes - having lived, adds a level to physical beauty that so often seems to be missing in the stereotypes we see around us every day. It is called personality. Character. The ability to actually pull that train and make a difference. –BM-

MARLEN BORO | BEAUTIFULMAG

Aaron Cobbett's Secret Garden

DRIVEN BY A RESTLESS MOTHER WHO HAD HER MIND SET UPON A CAREER IN SHOW BUSINESS, ROSE LOUISE HOVICK. AT AGE 15, LOUISE’S MOTHER FORCED HER ON STAGE TO FILL IN FOR A STAR STIPPER DURING A BURLESQUE THEATER SHOW. HAVING STAGE EXPEREINCE SINCE SHE WAS 5, LOUISE CAPTURED HER NEWLY FOUND AUDIENCE WITH A PERFORMANCE THAT WAS MORE TEASE THAN STRIP. LOUISE CHANGED HER NAME TO GYPSY ROSE LEE AND, HAVING FOUND HER CALLING, MADE A HUGE CAREER IN BURLESQUE CABARET THAT BROUGT HER TO HIGH SOCIETY BALLS AND EVENTUALLY TRANSFORMED HER IN A SHOW BY HERSELF: THE HIGHLY POPULAR MUSICAL GYPSY.

"This is no secret garden.
Everybody knows
Everybody watches
As it grows
Burgeoning begonias
And gladiolas, cheek by jowel.
Eyes follow hoe and trowel
As he moves them to and fro.
This garden has a secret, though,
Shielded from view.
The lovliest bud of all,
Is reserved only for a few." - Aaron Cobbett -

The floral district in Manhattan, NYC is a surprisingly lush area occupies only one block between the Avenue of the Americas and Seventh Avenue and stretches itself like a true secret garden. This is the place Aaron Cobbett recently visited to escape the aftermath of the long brutal New York winter and cherish the first signs of a beautiful spring. Surrounded by the rich foliage, and still having the amazing life story of Gypsy Rose Lee that he recently had read fresh in his mind, Aaron was struck by inspiration. What if he could shoot s series of portraits that would be both a hommage to the legendary burlesque dancer and the colorful awakening of Spring.

Surrounded by green plants and fresh cut blooms, Aaron Cobbett couldn’t help seeing a similarity between his current colorful environment and Gypsy Rose Lee’s style of mixing prose and stripping. In his head Aaron started to visualize his concept. A flamboyant personality that rises from a kaleidoscopic composition of flowers, accompanied by a touching poem. And while visualizing Aaron could only think about one person bold enough to pull this off: Chase Hostler.

Chase Hostler is one of New York City’s most known go-go boys and nightlife personalities. His ever changing personality, his naughty, boyish looks and his dauntless attitude made him in Aaron Cobbett’s eyes the perfect personification of Gypsy Rose. Chase is becoming more and more known in the universe of fashion and art photographers and is a well-sought after model thanks to his never-tiring efforts in adapting himself to every situation and setting. He charms you by giving a lot and intrigues you because you know there is still a lot hidden. And so it came to happen that Aaron Cobbett sat down composing his poem, while in his mind working out the design for his shooting with Chase. And the result is this stunning set of photographs, perfect within the tiniest detail, starring Chase Hostler among the rich spring foliage like a true artist’s muse. And it seems that on the day of creation, both Aaron Cobbett and Chase Hostler felt the whispering touch of Gyspy Rose’s spirit. –BM-

AARON COBBETT | BEAUTIFULMAG
CHASE HOSTLER | BEAUTIFULMAG

BeautifulMag Cover Story | Shooting Bobby, Naughty & Nice

SUGAR AND SPICE. STICKY AND SWEET. SALTY AND BITTER. NAUGHTY AND NICE. WE ALL HAVE OUR SECOND NATURE. A DARKER SIDE OF OUR PERSONALITY THAT IS SOMEHOW MORE BRAVE, MORE COURAGEOUS. YES, MORE DARING. FOR SOME IT IS A SECOND NATURE. OTHER ARE MORE CAREFUL I REVEALING THEIR  MISCHIEVOUS CHARACTERISTICS. AND THAN THERE ARE SOME HOW WORK AS A CATALIST ON OTHERS TO BRING THEIR NAUGHTY SIDE OUT.

"Obsession, attraction and desire are all elements associated with photographs that inspire me. Most definitely all of these elements come into play when I am shooting my golden boy Bobby Momenteller. From our very first test shoot, I knew he had something there that was different than all the other models trying to make their way. He has a phenomenal body and an extremely attractive dark side; which comes through in his photographs. The fact that I have a huge crush on him makes it even that much more exciting when I know he is coming to my house to play. However, do not be fooled. This rock-hard sex-god has a sweet down-home southern-boy appeal and is as honest as the day is long (which makes him even hotter)."

"If you simply look at the aesthetics of his physic, it rivals one of Michael Angelo’s sculptures. Along with his amazing body, the white trash tattoos give him a modern edge that no other model has. It is obvious to the viewer that Bobby has the look and appeals to our new physical culture."

"I went into the shoot with definite ideas in mind. I wanted to capture the naughty and the nice side of Bobby. One of the most ironic things here is that I can be such a control freak about getting the look I am going for. However, as Bobby and I continued shooting, I began to realize that I was being controlled by him. I would see him in a different light, a different situation, and wonder “why don’t I have my camera now?” This is what inspired me to shoot him waking up naked in my bed." - Justin Monroe -

"Being a professional model in midwest Chicago, its very trying at times. So when Justin calls me to shoot, I get very excited. I know it is going to be outrageous, provocative and fun. I was brought into modeling at the age of six by my mother. Later, as my physic started to develop, I became a fitness model and began to do some nude modeling."

"I have always been comfortable with my sexuality from a young age. It was not a big deal to show my body. I was taught to never be afraid or never be ashamed. According to my mother, “the naked body is beautiful.” So for me it was never a taboo. When I started modeling for fitness magazines and ads, it allowed me even more comfort and allowed myself to feel better in my own skin. I am pretty much fearless being nude. Justin further helped me with this. He pulled out my innermost sex-god hahahaha fuck yeah! We would shoot and say “imagine what people would think? Have we gone overboard now? Daddy I think you should give me a milk bath in our next photo. hahaha.” Justin Monroe and I are two peas in a pod. He allows me to create, be fearless, and pull out my inner emotions. It is a true love connection." - Bobby Momenteller –

Naughty and nice are two ingredients that probably say everything there is about Justin Monroe. A nice guy who is able to express his deepest and most wicked fantasies and wishes through his exceptional photography. And Bobby Momenteller seems to be a willing victim for Justin’s creative escapies. Which does make you wonder, who is the naughtiest of these two. -BM-

JUSTIN MONROE | BEAUTIFULMAG
BOBBY MOMENTELLER | BEAUTIFULMAG

Eric Ganison | Dylan goes French

FRENCH HISTORY KNOWS MANY PIONEERS IN JUST AS MANY AREAS. FÉLIX DU TEMPLE DE LA CROIX WAS THE FIRST ONE TO A MOTERPOWERED-HEAVIER-THAN-AIR AIRCRAFT, THOUGH FLYING IS A BIG WORD FOR THE FEW SECONDS JUMP HE MADE. LOUIS BRAILLE INVENTED BRAILLE PRINTING IN THE EARLY 1800’S AND RUDOLPH DIESEL DIESEL GASOLINE IN 1894. IN 1889 GUSTAVE EIFFEL BUILT THE TALLEST BUILDING IN THE WORLD, JACQUES HEIM AND LOUIS REARD WERE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE CREATION OF THE BIKINI IN 1946 AND WASN’T IT JULES VERNE WHO WROTE ABOUT SPACE, AIR AND UNDERWATER TRAVEL BEFORE OTHERS EVEN THOUGT ABOUT THE POSSIBILITIES OF THIS.

In 1826, Joseph Nicéphore Niépce made a photo through the window of his workroom. Though difficult to decipher, it has made history being the earliest-known permanent photograph. But is wasn’t until 13 years later that man invented a truly useful purpose for the invention of photography. Because in 1839 Louis-Jacques-Mandé Daguerre shot the very first nude portrait. And may we just point out how free-spirited our ancestors were by defining nude portrait photography as a useful practice of this revolutionary invention. Yes, the French have been pioneers in many areas, not in the least the area of aesthetics.

Mississippi born Eric Ganison moved to Dallas, Texas in 1991. His activities in the performing arts landed him a job in the modeling industry and it wasn’t before long Eric became a known model instructor. Not so strange that eventually Eric Ganison tried his luck behind the camera, which turned out to be a very good decision. After having mastered the disciplines of product photography, Eric started to concentrate on people. Regular portraiture and wedding series eventually brought him to the more subtle area of fine art and nudes and with that it seems like Eric Ganison has come home. No wonder many aspiring models turn to him to shoot their portfolio.

When Dylan stepped into Eric Ganison’s studio he was only a college student, so he couldn’t have been more than, let’s say, in his very early 20’s. But Dylan knew what he wanted. And so did Eric once he saw Dylan. Having years of experience working for a modeling school, Eric has what it takes to filter the good ones from the average, and seeing Dylan he immediately knew he had what it takes to get into the industry. 5’11” tall, handsome face, toned body. There was no doubt for Eric Dylan would do good. And he was right. Eventhough it was Dylan’s first, he was amazingly comfortable and completely natural. Like he had been modeling for years. Even more, Dylan had no problem at all to shred of his clothes and pose nude. Even full frontal seemed to come as the easiest thing I the world.

After this first session Dylan disappeared from the scene. Almost like he was a muse that came down from the heavens for one moment of inspiration. But Dylan actually had very good reason to disappear. The young model moved to Paris in order to learn French. Seems to us Dylan his own pioneer when it came to modeling, and he did it all the French way. –BM-

ERIC GANISON | BEAUTIFULMAG

The Scene's Last Supper

THE LAST SUPPER IS A 15TH CENTURY MURAL PAINTING BY LEONARDO DA VINCI DEPICITING JESUS’ FINAL MEAL IN WHICH HE PREDICTS HIS BETRAYAL BY ONE OF HIS DISCIPLES. THE PAINTING HAS BEEN SOURCE FOR MUCH SPECULATION AND QUESTIONS. BUT NO ONE EVER WONDERED WHAT WAS SERVED DURING THAT ILLUSTRIOUS MEAL. SO WHEN DEAN STOCKINGS ASKED HIS DISCIPLES HE LUST HAVE BEEN SURPRISED BY THEIR ANSWERS.

Terry Vietheer on a bed of lettuce, freshly cooked lobster and a glass of strawberry champagne or Channing Tatum with a side salad aren’t the first dishes that come to mind while thinking of The Last Supper. But then again Dean Stocking’s version of the famous painting is also not the most common. Together with Paul Bowen, art director for Boyz Magazine, Dean Stockings shot 13 key people from London’s gay scene in the famous setting. The portrait was done as a tribute to Da Vinci’s masterpiece and is a beautiful composition of some of the most colorful characters related to the numerous London gay bars and clubs. But what makes this piece even more beautiful is the fact that it is available as a limited edition collectors print, with all proceeds going to the Elton John AIDS Foundation. The prints are available in 2 sizes: 18’ x 12’ for £10; or 24’ x 16’ at £25 (plus £4 P&P). To place an order please send a cheque payable to ‘Boyz Magazine’ for the appropriate amount, along with your full name, address and telephone number to: Boyz Magazine, 18 Brewer Street, London, W1F 0SH. Please allow 14 days for delivery. –BM-

The Scene’s Last Supper features, from left to right: club host Chrissy Darling, DJ Terry Vietheer, DJ and host Munroe Bergdorf, DJ HiFi Sean, go-go cutie Constantinos, G-A-Y’s Michael Mitchell, Work! creative consultant Kraig Valentino, DJ Lil Rob, Boy Banned and Ku Bar’s David Purdue, Popcorn promoter Chris Selby-Rickards, Eagle general manager Simon Kilner, King’s Arms manager Jamie Baker and DJ Lady Lloyd.

Photography by Dean Stockings.
Design and digital manipulation by Paul Bowen.
Commisioned by Boyz Magazine.
PAUL BOWEN | BEAUTIFULMAG
DEAN STOCKINGS | BEAUTIFULMAG

BeautifulMag #85 Week 17-18 | Get Cracking

Well, Easter weekend is here again. The weather looks good, so it’s time to get out there and enjoy yourselves. Many of you probably already made plans, but for those who didn’t we might have some nice tips. For example, get some friends together and organize an egg hunting party. No need to paint them, just make sure you hide your eggs in a place that makes it not all too difficult to find them. The hunting is good, the reward often better. But Easter is not all about eggs of course. No, there is much more to it. Such as the hare.

Both eggs and rabbits are iconic symbols related to Easter but all they have in common is the fact they are associated with fertility. Eggs because they are eggs and rabbits because – well – they are rabbits. Rabbits are cute. They are fluffy, have wriggling little noses and cute little tails. They are also not so easy to catch. So here is our second tip for the weekend: how to catch a bunny. There actually isn’t a real rule for this practice accept that you have to be quick. If you wait too long your target hip-hops away before you know it and someone else might catch it. Never tip-toe towards it. It never helps. You need to be direct and straightforward. Sometimes when they feel hunted down, rabbits tend to hide behind a small object. In this case the best thing to do is to go for the most direct approach, put one hand in front and one in the back and grab it in which ever hand it runs into. Most of the time rabbits are difficult to catch. They are fast and every time you think you are able to catch it – hop – it jumps away. And so whatever you do, if you do catch it, never let go. –BM-

BEAUTIFULMAG | Everything That Is

To Paris, With Love

MEETING NEW PEOPLE IS ALWAYS EXCITING. BUT IT GETS EVEN BETTER WHEN YOU MEET PEOPLE FROM ANOTHER COUNTRY. ESPECIALLY IF YOU DON’T SPEAK EACH OTHERS LANGUAGE BUT STILL WANT TO COMMUNICATE. WHEN YOU NEED TO FIND OTHER WAYS TO CONNECT. SOMEHOW THERE IS MORE ANTICIPATION. IT IS MORE EXCITING, MORE INTENSE. AND WHEN YOU SUCCEED, MORE SATISFYING.

It was shortly after the untimely passing of both his mother and sister that Frank Louis realized photography is his true passion. A way to express his thoughts and emotions. “It is impossible to experience this kind of loss and not realize what matters most in life; how we connect with people and how we invest our time”, Frank explains. The dramatic and painful experiences he went through made him realize he needs to do what his heart tells him, even if it means taking risks and not knowing what the future has in stock for him. And so, when he decided to quite his job and leave that financial security behind in order to pursue his dream of photography wholeheartedly many thought he had lost his mind. Not Frank though. He felt he found it.

Frank Louis is 3rd generation American and even though native New Yorker, still feels his Italian DNA as a strong influence in everything he does. Indeed, Frank is a man of emotion and passion. He finds his inspiration in music, theater and film, traveling and the people in his life. One of these persons is Jerome. Even though Frank and Jerome only met twice, there was a chemistry that resulted in some fantastic photographic sessions. Jerome is French and lives in Paris. A city that also occupies a special place in Frank Louis’ heart. But what makes the relationship between Jerome and Frank even more special is the fact that neither one speaks each others language.

Just imagine. You meet a handsome guy and feel inspired to shoot photography with him. You approach him, only to find out he is from the other side of the world and speaks a completely different language. For many this would be an obstacle impossible to overcome. Not for Frank Louis. Never one to take the path of least resistance, Frank decided that the small hindrance of not understanding one another could not be a reason to not proceed. On the contrary. Frank likes challenges. And so, where others would turn away, Frank intensified his efforts. We don’t know how they did it, but Frank and Jerome found a way to work together, and this unique cooperation has resulted in series of photos that are proof of the intensity and sensitivity that occurs when you can not communicate the way you would normally do. It shows Frank Louis puts a piece of his heart in every photo he takes.-BM-

FRANK LOUIS | BEAUTIFULMAG