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Interview with
Albert Beltran / AKA Ben Bonito
Ben Bonito is a multifaceted artist based in Miami. After graduating with a Bachelors in Fashion from the Miami International University of Arts and Design, he moved to New York to pursue his fashion career.
Fast forward a few years, and now back in Miami, Ben has been developing his image as a multimedia model. He has worked with the likes of Swae Lee, Jay Wheeler, and most recently with Tokisha and Tainy for the new Netflix series: "Rebel Moon".
Below is a casual conversation with Ben Bonito, with commentary from Jose Sime (JSIME). We hope you enjoy this collaboration between two artists united by fashion under the sunny landscape of Miami.
What inspired you to pursue a career as a model?
"My ink; honestly never thought I'd be on camera. the ink pushed me."
JSIME: I can relate to that. I find a lot of inspiration in old school photography that depicts a counter culture attitude. Tattoos have always been a source of creativity for me as well. I remember when I was a kid I used to draw self portraits with tattoo sleeves and piercings, I was obsessed LOL.
What's your creative process when you think about a new photoshoot project?
"Depending on the mood of the project, I pull inspirational images, movies and previous projects."
JSIME: Naturally, modeling and fashion have a symbiotic relationship so the creative process is very similar. I find myself collecting images from various magazines and other designers I admire. It's all about developing a constant stream of creative stimuli; consequently, feeding the creative muscle just makes the process flow a lot smoother.
What's the most adventurous thing you've ever done in your life?
"Partying for days on end, LOL"
What is a talent you wish you had?
"Singing"
How do you start your typical day?
"With a huge glass of water and a little music."
How did you come across JSIME COLLECTIVE, and what was your initial thought?
"I found it at a high-end art gallery in Miami,
my initial thought:
- I need that, LOL"
JSIME: It's crazy how things happen. You never know who you're going to meet and where, so you have to be ready to showcase your product at all times. I am always repping my own gear; it is my passion, my art, my product. When I met Albert, I was getting tattooed at the same venue where my brand was being sold. He saw what I was wearing and we immediately connected, the rest is history.
What's your take on Jose Sime's concepts and why do you support his vision?
"His concepts are timeless, the future. I see a forward-thinker with a season-less approach to a well balanced darkness."
Stay connected and Keep up with Ben Bonito in his social media channel @iambenbonito
MULTIMEDIA & INFLUENCERS
OASIS WYNWOOD
POP UP
We had the great honor to join UnSin at the Oasis Wynwood for one of the biggest urban music events in Miami.
Check out the photos below and all the friends that joined us for this unique event.