LIEBESTRAUM - Minami for GATA Magazine
Listen to the solo Piano-set Liebestraum No. 3, played by the multifaceted clavier player and model Minami Asanari. We also talk with her about creativity and inspiration in Tokyo.
What has been the biggest thing you've learned from your modelling career?
The first thing I learned is that working with other professionals is amazing. Photographers, makeup artists, editors, etc - they all have intimate knowledge of their skills and are very good at developing creative expressions with colour, story, and imagery. I learn a lot from working with them.
The second thing I learned is that the modelling industry in Japan is pretty far behind the times. Many Japanese models are discriminated against for their Japanese nationality. White models get the highest earnings while black, Japanese and other Asian models receive less money for the same or similar jobs. There are so many fashion brands in Japan where designers prefer to cast models who are tall, skinny, white with pretty 'princess' faces. I understand they are pretty and beautiful, however, there are different types of beauty that should be appreciated. I learned that Japanese people don’t like different things, some things have changed recently but I think Japan is still far behind in diversity. I also think it’s ridiculous these days to have such a strong boundary between men and women while other cultures are supporting more gender-neutral or gender-fluid societies.
However, I do like modelling and really enjoy it because I meet a lot of cool people.
You shared that you are currently in law school, which I'm sure keeps you very busy between castings, shoots, class and homework! What are your plans for work and life when you successfully have a law degree?
Currently, I am both a student and a model. In the future, I want to help people who have disabilities as well as teenagers in prison. That’s why I chose to study law.
In Japan, the legal situation for juveniles in prison is very poor. They have little opportunity to learn or communicate post-incarceration because of their backgrounds. They spend their time in prison without any ability to learn or improve skills. They need better education and more teachers. I will stop modelling in maybe 1 year and focus on supporting them.
I like being a model but I prefer to spend my future helping people in bad situations.
Super stylish, super smart, and super musically gifted! When did you start learning piano and how often do you still practice?
I began to play the piano when I was 3 years old. I still have a lesson once a week and I play the piano every day!!
Has playing the piano influenced any other parts of your life or given any inspiration or direction for your modelling?
I play the piano because I enjoy it. Playing piano music is personally comforting.
How often do you get to play piano on-camera? Any dream projects or collaborations for the future?
This project was my first time to play the piano and make a video with Matthew!
I want to do more collaborations with fashion in the future.
A few months ago I wrote a jazz song for a short movie. You can hear it on my Instagram, please check it out!!
Any other secret talents you might have?
I don’t know about secret talents, but I also teach children with disabilities. I really enjoy teaching them - I always feel good helping them!!!