Interview with Molly ‘Mawlz’ Hanley — Recording/Performing Artist and Model
Molly ‘Mawlz’ Hanley is a 23-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Molly ‘Mawlz’ Hanley, I was born and raised in Pittsburgh PA and just recently relocated to LA 6 months ago at the age of 22. I have one younger brother, and all of my family still lives in PA. I love to sing, rap, and write songs. I model occasionally and am also a part time Makeup Artist. I am a highly creative individual and anything that involves art intrigues me.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
I started out as a freelance makeup artist in Pittsburgh when I was still in high school to make extra money. I found myself becoming involved in many projects and highly sought after for makeup artistry and creative direction work, After shoots, many photographers would ask me if I ever considered modeling, and so eventually I would shoot images for my own portfolio with them. Soon after establishing a decent portfolio, I booked some paid modeling gigs and shows, and have been doing so ever since.
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
My goal is to become a successful performing and recording artist. In 5 years I hope to have an album or albums out, music videos, be touring, and to have gained some awards or industry recognition. I could also see myself modeling within the realm of my music persona. I would love to be the face of a cosmetic line or clothing brand. I plan to become a brand of my own as well. I envision myself eventually writing for other artists and being involved in artist development as well.
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
Currently my main focus is my music. I am modeling here and there, mostly where there is paid work being offered. Typically I am doing photo shoots and acting, more so than walking in shows. I am 5’6″, so I am a little too short for the catwalk in most shows. Most recently, I got “set up” on a prank reality TV game show. That was fun, and I got paid!
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
Most of my experiences have been good, but there’s been a few unprofessional and creepy photographers here and there. My best experiences were, doing makeup, modeling and acting as a “ghoul” for Ghostface Killah’s, from Wu-Tang Clan “12 Reasons to Die” show when it was in Pittsburgh, and also modeling extremely expensive diamond jewelry for a popular Pittsburgh jeweler at an event for Pittsburgh Fashion Week.
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
I’ve been freezing cold, changing wardrobe in the middle of a Barnes and Nobles parking lot with random passersby taking pictures of me before, if that counts. I have no shame. I don’t get embarrassed easily.
Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?
There is too much image altering and body shaming. Enough with the over photoshopped images.
Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.
I stay in shape by being extremely conscious of what I eat, I don’t necessarily diet. I avoid soda, excess sugar and carbs, and try to eat more gluten-free products than gluten products – although I have no known allergy to gluten. I eat a lot of fish, lean meat, fruits and vegetables. For exercise, I like to run around my neighborhood and go out dancing. I will also do squats, crunches, yoga and others here and there throughout the week. I was blessed with a very fast metabolism and lean athletic figure, but that also may be due to young age. I walk to and from work most days, which is about 3 miles. I always feel better when I choose to eat right and stay on a workout routine – mentally, physically and emotionally. I need to drink more water though! I struggle with that.
Please share something people don’t know about you.
I moved out of my mom’s house at 18 years old and have lived in 4 apartments in 2 different states since then.
Would you change anything about yourself?
I have my insecurities, and sometimes I think I may do something to change them, nose and boob job, but then again, they are things that make me unique, so I haven’t made a serious decision to do anything about my ‘problem areas’ yet. I am quite secure in who I am, I don’t believe that wanting cosmetic procedures makes you a “bad role model” or a deeply insecure person, as the stigma would suggest. It’s just like when people decide to cut and dye their hair or get a tattoo. It’s a reflection of your human form aesthetic desires, not your soul. I don’t like it when people give others a hard time about personal choices that have nothing to do with them. If it makes you happy or feel good – go for it. Life’s short.
What is the coolest thing you’ve done in your professional career thus far?
I had the opportunity to be an opening act for Snoop Dogg, Twista and Trina, all of whom are rap and music legends! I was invited to Twista’s tour bus to hang out briefly after the show and they asked me to rap for him and his crew! They were impressed, and it was an awesome and unforgettable experience.