Photography and Interview by Lauren Engel
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The 21st century girl doesn’t pertain to any stereotype. She’s a chick of many talents, one moment she’s in Europe, the next she’s in Asia. She’s working on several artistic projects at once and killing at every single one. She’s a mix of races – picking up different cultures as she travels. She’s the mysterious girl at the party you want to know her life story who everyone has their eyes on. Here we have sat down and chatted for you.
Michele Maturo is more than just a pretty face. This multi-faceted talent from California is a star on the rise. Whether being a model, DJ, actor, or a writer, this is one women who adds her signature style to every project with which she’s involved. There is something special about Michele that instantly draws you in. A down-to-Earth natural beauty with a girl-next-door appeal, her ‘no nonsense’ attitude earns instant respect from the moment you meet her. Her look is so versatile that she has modeled in campaigns for some of your favourite all-American brands like Pepsi, Reebok, and McDonalds (to name a few), and edgy enough to be featured in music videos with Justin Timberlake and Major Lazer. Her love of music and eagerness for adventure drew her into the world of DJing, and before long she was touring Asia spinning records with Paul Devro of Mad Decent. A film school college graduate and a regular contributor to Galore Magazine, Michele is a beauty with brains to match.
Photographer: Lauren Engel
MUA: Charlotte Kraftman using Charlotte Tilbury Makeup
Stylist: Lauren Abbondola
Location: Carlos E. Fernández-Dieppa
I’m an LA woman! My heart is here, but I’ll travel indefinitely.”
Where do you search for music? Who/what’s your music inspiration?
I was surrounded and immersed in the scene, and with the help of a great mentor I practiced for a year before playing out. I started because I loved exposing my friends to dancehall/hip hop/r&b. I get inspired by any music that can make me move and evoke a positive feeling.
How did you get into writing for Galore Magazine?
Jessie knew how much I love to write and put me in contact with the team. I was looking for another outlet and it was the right timing.
What inspires you to write about certain topics?
People. Normally I ask what people want me to touch base on, and I try my best to answer and always give my honest advice.
What are the meanings behind all your tattoos?
All but one of them have to do with someone I love – whether it be friends or family. I have two matching tattoos and a mouth tattoo that is just for laughs.
What do you do you in your free time?
Read, hike, play with my pups, find new music, arts & crafts, and spend quality time where it’s needed.
Do you see yourself living in California for the next few years or do you want to live someplace else?
I’m an LA woman! My heart is here, but I’ll travel indefinitely.
You talked in previous interviews about your interest in documentaries and filming–have you explored this field recently?
I went to film school so i’ll always have a love for docs, but I just take pictures as my own little hobby, for now.
Jamaica is your favourite destination–what do you usually do when you’re there? Any tips for traveling there?
Port Antonio is beautiful – you gotta go there. I hike, eat jerk salmon and crawfish, and venture out (even to the strip clubs).
You have been DJing for a few years, what do you love about it and what don’t you love about it?
Djing is a hobby, I have a huge love and appreciation for music and like to share that, but I’ve learned that in order to look fresh faced for shoots I can’t live those late nights anymore.
We heard you’re best friends with Jessie Andrews, how did you two meet?
She’s the best. The Internet is responsible.
How were you like in highschool? (How would people describe you then?)
Had close friends, but was nice to everyone. I couldn’t wait to leave.
Do you think you have changed over the years? If so, in what way?
I’ve come into my own.
Which of your modeling achievements are you most proud of?
It was really cool to see myself on the tallest building in Times Square for a major campaign.
Would you say height matters for the commercial work you are doing?
Not at all.
What inspires you to want to start your own skin care line?
I’ve had good skin, bad skin, dry skin, and I like to share what I’ve learned and use with others.
Last but not least, what workout do you do to keep yourself so healthy and energetic and how do you still love fries?! :)
The trick is to stay consistent and not to burn yourself out. I do cross training and work myself out at least 3x a week. Fries are my weakness and I feel I’m able to eat what I want as long as it’s in moderation. One thing I’ve learned is to not make too many rules or restrictions. Just be aware.
