Undefeatable soul An-Josefien Falelavaki pours her all into every project that sprouts from her mind. A poet, artist, video director, photographer, writer, model & erstwhile streetwear designer, there’s no limiting what she can do (but it’s never too much). Sitting down for a truly open conversation with host & close friend Dominique, the pair discuss all the triumphs and wounds of work and life (with integrity, always) on this week’s episode of The Most podcast. Driven to counter society’s stigmas, AJ shares her journey from growing up with a single mom living with mental health challenges, how her streetwear beginnings with A Cut Above landed her in L.A. and Marfa with Erik Brunetti of FUCT and Larry Clark, the mixed emotions of reconnecting her different lives and cultures & standing in her artist self (she’s only getting started).
Dominique shares why AJ is an honoured invitee: "Since The Most launched, I get a lot of people suggesting themselves as guests for the show and AJ is one of the few people I actually immediately wanted to have on. Not that I wouldn’t talk to the others that have reached out, but I prefer that the request comes from me, because if I invite you it means that I’ve been thinking about you thoroughly, which then means I am prepared. AJ is an incredibly fierce and beautiful artist, but she also grew up with a parent battling mental health issues, something I know a thing or two about myself. We had a great conversation and yes, we did talk about suicidal ideation, addiction and depression, but there’s also a lot of laughter and talk about career milestones: like her part in the rise of Antwerp streetwear label A Cut Above, being invited by Erik Brunetti to help with the rebranding of FUCT, going to Marfa to shoot with Larry Clark and the publication of her book tantalisingly titled ‘Grudges'. This is an episode I am most proud of.”
Just press play below.