The North American Hairstyling Awards, NAHA, is produced by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA) will celebrate 25 years in 2014 as the beauty industry’s leading honor. Bangstyle had the pleasure of getting to know the amazingly talented Geno Chapman, one of this year's nominees in the "Contemporary Classic" category. Check out our exclusive interview with Geno to learn a bit more about his collection and what fuels his passion for hair.
Tell us a bit about your nominated collection. What was the creative process like? Inspiration?
It all starts with a bunch of us putting up a big vision board on the wall with ideas that we would like to see in the shoots. Then, we find a coherent story that blends into each of our personalities, off to prep our models and shoot from sun up to sun down. Which all includes laughing and deliriousness.
Where there collections in other categories that you found inspiring?
I'm always inspired by collections in the past and then seeing the fantastic collections that get nominated now. There's so much creativeness, it's hard not to be wanting to be contagious with the rest of them.
What is your favorite hair texture to style?
Thats an amazing question. It's almost what texture can be put on a particular head of hair and how can it be manipulated.
What is your recipe for a successful shoot?
Have a plan, stick to your plan and have a cohesive story that you tell.
If you could offer your younger stylists one piece of advice, what would you say?
Never stop being a sponge. Soak up as much as you can. No matter how big or how small it is, it's all relative in hair.
What is your favorite aspect of being a stylist?
To be apart of someones life that helps shape their individuality and how they feel they want to express themselves to the world.
Most recent obsession?
My new obsession is my brand new Harley Davidson V-Rod I just picked up. Inspiration comes in many forms.
Who are your idols in the hair industry? Have you met any of them?
I am thankful enough to work for a company that has brought me many experiences and the chance to meet many of the greats in our industry. Thank you, Aveda.
What area of hair would you like to explore more?
I love the whole natural movement for ethnic hair. I'm having a good time learning to thermal style and being a part of the change.
Which non-hair related areas do you constantly find yourself being inspired by?
I have always been into the underground street seen which includes graffitti writers, break dancing, and spoken word poetry. There is art in everything we do and everyone is refining their skills to become better.
Be sure to "Stalk" Geno Chapman on Bangstyle to see his latest stunning uploads as well as wish him luck in the upcoming NAHAs.
