The Makings and Musings of KC Del Rosario

A partnership that dates back centuries, artists and muses often share dramatic and profound relationships that go beyond their bodies of work. Whether it be through the medium of painting, sculpting, or photography, these bonds are often produced by deep and rare connections that not many are lucky enough to share. 

For KC Del Rosario, her friendship with photographer and visual artist Mark Nicdao goes beyond their artist-muse trope. 

In an exclusive with LIFESTYLE.INQ, we visually recount their recent trip to Paris, and speak to KC one-on-one, discussing everything from their relationship, to her sources of inspiration, and how this amplifies her femininity. 

Let’s start off with how you and Mark first met. Could you share with us a little bit about that? What was it like building your relationship and how did it evolve into what it is today? 

I found his laugh contagious and fell in love with his brilliant mind. Mark and I met at a shoot. We joke about how we’ve known each other for centuries because that’s exactly what it feels like. 

How do you think your personal friendship has affected your muse / maker relationship? 

I’m more of his friend than a muse but when he shoots me it’s actually very rare considering how much time we spend together. When he decides to make a life-sized bust of my head coming out of a frame, that’s also very rare.

Could you tell us a little bit about your definition of femininity? How does being a muse amplify it?

Such a delicate question but as a muse I feel vulnerable yet powerful shooting these photographs, celebrating my body, celebrating life, and loving and truly accepting myself.

As an individual, could you share a little bit about your favourite types of art? What styles are you inclined to? 

Dali’s surrealism, Renaissance art, 18th Century Rococo art, and 12th Century Gothic art. 

Pure cinema by directors Lars Von Trier, Yorgos Lanthimos, Bernardo Bertolucci, Alejandro Jowdorowsky, Gaspar Noe, Wong Kar-Wai, Stanley Kubrick, and Quentin Tarantino.

It’s common knowledge that a muse serves as an artist’s inspiration. But could you tell us a little bit about the things that inspire you? 

The passion that goes into filmmaking, music, visual arts, fashion shows, and stage design. 

How have these elements helped you grow as an individual and how do you translate them as a muse? 

My range of interests and my amazing group of friends are what keep me inspired and constantly learning.

Would you be able to recall your first encounter with art? Or an encounter that moved you and shifted your perspective towards it in general? 

My parents are huge art collectors so it’s something that has always been a part of my upbringing. Salvador Dali is and has always been my favorite painter.

Considering your background in fashion, how do you feel this has influenced your approach to art now? Do you feel it has shaped your vision differently? 

I studied both fashion and fine art. My appreciation for both will forever shape how I view the world—even more so with films. 

What are your favourite labels or fashion houses? How does fashion come into play with your role as a muse? 

My top would have to be Alexander McQueen and Versace, as well as Dior, Saint Laurent, Fendi, Balenciaga, Schiaparelli, Margiela, and Gaultier. 

I celebrate fashion. You’ll see me having the most fun when I’m dressed up. Whenever I’m photographed by Mark and dressed in Boom [Sason], I’m always beaming. 

How would you describe your personal style?

An enigma. Elusive, evolving, timeless, and fun.

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Photography by Mark Nicdao