Patricia Velásquez

The creative process extends beyond the photographs, canvas or films, and into the media. It also stimulates charity as well as philanthropy and activism. Patricia Velasquez, an award-winning model, actor, staunch philanthropist and conscientious activist, as well as a mother who is devoted to her children, brings a constant creative spirit to everything she does, whether it's starring in blockbusters such as The Curse of La Llorona, or launching Wayuu Taya Foundation, and serving as a member of the UNESCO Board. She is a strong believer in her intuition and is a pioneer of her own path. She states, "I see my career as a long ladder." "I completed every step. It was incredible to accomplish that, as it was an ongoing process. I just lay my head on the floor and made one step at a time. And then it was done. The imagery closely resembles the beginning of a new phase. Born in Venezuela but educated in France and Mexico and then moved to Venezuela after a few years. In South America her parents worked in the field of education. They moved their family to an apartment complex without running water or elevators. Patricia frequently carried buckets of water up 15 flights of stairs in order to supply water. Between engineering studies and intense dance training she aimed to aid the family however possible. She was sought out to be a model in Milan and her climb to the top of the fashion world was based on a promise made to her family and friends. She recalls, "When they asked me to go to Italy I told them, 'If can send thirty dollars per month back to Venezuela and it's worth it since that would provide the entire building's water'." Patricia's accomplishment was a turning point for fashion when she brought the attention of fashion's industry to South America. Her biggest break came when she became "the first model Karl Lagerfeld ever photographed" and was then able to walk at shows, take part in editorial spreads and front ads for Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Fendi, Chloe, Cover Girl, and Victoria's Secret among just a few. The world was abuzz with her presence, she appeared on Oprah as well as Ford Models' "Supermodel of the World" contest as well. She also appeared on the front covers of Marie Claire, Bazaar and Vogue.