Iranian NYC Runway Model

[Rasputin]

Raised in North Carolina, Kayvon Zand is a veteran runway model has extensive experience with many of New York's best designers and names.

His delicate yet masculine features definitely distinguish him on and off the
runway.

Coincidentally Kayvon has also modelled for Iranian print designer Nima Behnoud's NIMANY 2005 collection .

Besides modelling Kayvon's also a big Iranian music fan from Javad Maroofi to Googoosh.

He is also musically inclined having played the violin and viola from the age of 3.

You may also see Kayvon opposite Meryl Streep in the film "The Devil wears Prada" playing himself, a male model.

Iranians taking over the fashion industry - one at a time. Kayvon Zand also made a cameo performance in the movie "Devil Wears Prada". Keep an eye out for this one.

[IQ]

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[Rasputin]

Where were you born?

Good ole Wilmington, NC

Music, acting, or modeling - which is your biggest passion?

Well music was my first language. I knew how to play before I could speak, so there is definitely a connection with my soul and harmony. Although, I am a renaissance man, I love art in all forms.

Have you worked with any Iranian designers, like Hushi from "Michael & Hushi" or Pegah Anvarian, as a model?

I started modeling in Europe and that is where I reached the climax in my modeling career to date. I did not have the opportunity at the time to work with them, although, I have worked with Nima Behnoud here in NYC.

Were you musical from an early age?

Again, first language

Who is your favorite designer and why?

To be honest I do not follow brands or names. People on the street inspire me. So I would say NYC scene kids are amongst my favorite designers because they make everything from head to toe they are wearing. Not for everyone, but true self expression.

Who is your favorite musician and why?

I actually am I big fan of Javad Maroofi. I grew up mimicking his compositions. Rachmaninoff is another legend right next to Dave Gohan of Depeche mode. I love music that speaks from melody, not necessarily words.

Who is your favorite actor?

Johnny Depp is just cool. His darkness and choice of roles appeal to me.

Who do you consider an inspiration or role model?

Hmm, this is kind of tricky. Everyday someone inspires me. I can't imagine having one person as inspiration, that would make me a copy cat, lol. Everyone is an inspiration whether it be dark or light. The past has inspired me to move forward if anything.

What do you think of the new-generation of Iranian-American musicians;
i.e. Deep Dish?

It's great to see Persians playing in the big leagues, as they should. Persians are amongst some of the most talented and beautiful people in the world. So I feel very proud to see fellow "Iranians" doing their thing.

Were your Iranian parents supportive of your decision to go into the arts and not law or medicine?

Well, my family has always known I would pursue a bigger life then what was given to me. So I feel they support me, yet fear I will not get what I want by taking a chance. But, my passion controls me, so that does not give me the choice to conform.

How did you land a role in the movie "The Devil Wears Prada"?

Patricia Fields is a friend

Do you plan on continuing to act?

I will definitely take the opportunity if it's there. But, I'm not going to kill myself for a role.

Who would be the ideal character for you to portray in a movie, in your opinion?

Elvis Presley. We share the same birthday!

Do you find it hard or perhaps easy to get jobs or positive press as an Iranian artist during such sensitive times?

I'm an artist before I'm Iranian, American, or anything. So it doesn't really matter. If anything I can get away with more, as I am not white or black, lol.

What do you forecast for the future of Iranian-American artists like yourself?

Hell, lol, jk. Actually, I predict that Persians will always be in the arts no matter what relations with the US will be.

What's your favorite Iranian dish?

Kashkeh Bademjoon.

What's your sign?

Capricorn Baby!

What's next on your plate?

World Domination and a number three from McDonald's SUPER SIZED! lol. Actually, Music, music, and more music!

[reza-george]

It's great to see a fellow iranian from the state of North Carolina. Thank you RedWine for this thread.

[LadyPersia]

oh...my....