Written by: Jo Ann L.B. Duggins
Cover Photo by: Photosynthesis Photography
Click photos for more info
Full Name: Marlo Marquise
Age:24
Currently Residing: Brooklyn, NY
Currently Listening to: Beirut
I think there is something quite powerful and enigmatic about a woman who can be subtly seductive. As a woman, it should be in your power to call a man over with just a look. I am not a fan of putting it all out there and think it more alluring to convey an energy which lures people to you. When I first watched Marlo Marquise perform I was entranced. She has a subtle way about her. She's dark and extremely beautiful but has a sweetness that would make a diabetic twinge. Marlo is a classic performer but she's a bit more of an orchid rather than a rose. She just puts a smile on my face when I see her perform. I am quite smitten and honored to introduce her to you.
you are an artist, a performer and a model...how do you see yourself in these worlds?
That is a very hard question to answer. I still see myself as a novice in all worlds, because I'm constantly learning and still have a lot to learn. I love being involved in as many creative outlets as possible. I really can't just do, or be one thing. It makes life more exciting to be busy! I try to fulfill any fantasy I have about what I want to be doing with my life.
how would you describe your style of performance?
Growing up I was always mesmerized by Old Hollywood stars and icons of the like, so a classic image and presence is a major part of my performance. I love the innocent sexuality that resonated from stars like Marilyn Monroe and the classic Bettie Page. They had this way about them when they looked at their audience, or in the way they moved, that was just very flirty, but not over the top, almost natural. I like to take that approach when I perform.
you paint as well, when did this begin and are you still creating art?
I've been painting ever since I could remember. As a little girl I was always drawing, or creating. I went to the Fashion Institute of Technology for Fine Arts and acquired a Bachelors degree, with a focus in painting. I paint people who influence me, most of them from the glamorous decades before our time. I have painted large scale portraits of Mae West, Edgar Allan Poe, Elizabeth Short, Truman Capote, Iggy Pop, Peter Murphy, James Dean, Nick Cave, and many more. When I'm not busy with everything else, which is rare, I do still paint. I actually had a few pieces in a group show this past month. Besides, painting, modeling, Burlesque, it's all art to me.
do you feel your persona as Marlo Marquise ever takes away from your true self? To be honest, I don't see it that way at all. My real name is Marlo, and it was very important to me to keep my first name when creating my stage name. I am the same person on stage, as I am off. I bring vintage inspired aspects into my everyday life. I never wanted to create a character that didn't exist, I brought the performer out in myself. I think it's very important to still show a piece of yourself on stage.
how did you get into the fetish modeling realm and what has been your favorite shoot?
I feel that fetish found me in a way. I started pinup modeling and performing Burlesque around the same time, which was under one year ago! The original Burlesque stars were pinup models as well, so they used their photos as a marketing tool for their performances. I thought, well if those fabulous ladies did it, I could do it too! It does help very much. As far as fetish goes, I tend to have a darker look than the typical all American pinup girl, so I fell into the fetish side of things, and I very much enjoy it! Who doesn't like a lady in seamed stockings, sky-high heels, a lovely bouffant and a riding crop? My favorite shoot recently was this very erotic shoot with the amazingly talented Ned Rosen. He really tries to get a reaction out of you to capture an image, so I learned a lot about posing, and conveying emotion. I also love the images because I had no makeup on and my hair was completely natural. I'm always so perfectly painted and coiffed in my photos, it was a nice change to show that I'm a human being, and that nobody is perfect, but those imperfections are beautiful.
did you ever have an exceptionally difficult shoot and why?
I think my favorite shoot was also a difficult one, because I felt very vulnerable. I had the chance to really embrace that vulnerability and turn it into power, and confidence, by just being me.
when was your last bubble gum blowing contest?
Funny you should ask! Probably a few months ago. Nobody is ever up for the challenge! They are few and far between.
how do you feel about the burlesque climate in new york vs elsewhere?
I have had this conversation with a lot of people recently. I think there is more talent in New York than anyone can handle. The only critique I have about the scene is that it can be a bit "drag" rather than using your natural femininity. I don't think that every performer has to take their act to an extreme comedic or political level. But at the same time, these are the reasons why I think I stand out from most performers, because I stick to a classic act, which I'm most comfortable with. To each his or her own. I love it all.
you have a grand musical taste, who are you really turned on by right now?
I feel like a total goth nerd but I've been really into Love and Rockets lately. The lead singer, Daniel Ash, is the guitarist to one of my all time favorite bands Bauhaus. I know, I know, can I be any more obvious!
what is your favorite monument and why?
That is quirky, to say the least. Now I am going to one up you on your weirdness. My favorite monument of all time are the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt. I've always been fascinated with Egyptian history, and culture, it's all very mysterious. Pyramids are almost like a giant tombstone, we could all wish to have such a commemorative creation when we die! I think pyramids are just very beautiful, unworldly structures. I hope to travel to Egypt one day, it's on my list!
If you would like to know more about Miss Marquise you can visit her MySpace Page.
And by all means check out what's going on with Miss Marquise and visit her blog!
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