LINKS: STYLIST JERMAINE ROBINSON, IN LONDON.
Jermaine Robinson is a creative consultant and stylist for the music industry. He’s worked tirelessly to make it to where he’s at. He chats to the SCG team about where he’s come from and how he bonds with the artists he works with to ensure a smooth run on set.
Hi Jermaine. Tell us how you started on your career path? It’s not easy to make it as a freelance stylist.
My interest in styling came from my late Aunt — she taught me how to use a sewing machine when I was just 8. And when I was 16, I discovered styling. Back then, I worked as a studio assistant for Cassette Playa, whilst also studying at college. At 18, I got offered an internship with Dazed and Confused which was so all-encompassing, it led to me to temporarily put a pause on my studies. Later I worked as a freelance fashion stylist assistant on editorials, and I also assisted at the Hood By Air x Selfridges show in 2014. I’ve packed a lot into my years.
What attracted you to choose the life of an artist, instead of a corporate role?
Do you know what, strangely, I was the very opposite — I wanted a corporate life — I tried it, but I burnt out. I couldn't grow any further in my 9-5 role, and I tried many other routes but it just wasn’t working out how I’d imagined. The only thing that kept me there was the stability it offered. But life now as an artist allows my creativity to flourish, along with the luxury of being self-expressive, both of which were missing in the corporate life.
We get you. How do you find styling artists? Do you find it difficult working with someone who already has a strong idea of how they want to look?
Styling artists, I find super interesting and it’s usually a pretty chilled job. So, I like to do the fitting early on, beforehand, just so the day of the shoot runs a little more smoothly. It’s always a good thing to do, especially if it’s your first time working with the artist, as it’s mostly a bonding session. You're developing a better understanding of the artist that is being styled when you chat back and forth to them during the fitting.
I really enjoy working with other strong minded artists, it gives me a challenge to fully push the idea I have shared, and to find more depth or range about it all. The outcome is more certi.
Which has been the most interesting shoot or video you've worked on in the last year?
I couldn’t really single any out. Individually they all have been great to work on. Having read through all of the video treatments I get a vision instantly of what the director is looking for which makes it easier when I’m sourcing
What is the most high pressure aspect of your work? How do you handle pressure and do you have any daily habits that help you perform at a high standard?
I guess the most stressful aspect is having to do quick turnarounds for a deadline, with days in between where I have to source in twice the speed. Although I’m usually good with pressure if I’m enjoying what it is I’m doing. I see it more as a challenge to get it done right, but ways of me cooling off is usually taking some time out for myself. Not thinking about anything other than the present time.
What advice would you give to your younger self, when you were just starting out in your career?
BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!! You're going to grow into a saucy young guy.
When thinking about the word “China,” what is it that you think about?
Technology and the country's strong sense of culture, as it’s one of the world's oldest cultures.
Who do you link us to for the next interview and why?
Olivia Lifungula. Her openness and encouragement as the first photographer I worked with since being a stylist again is enough of a reason!
