Madame X

April 8th, 2010

Images Benny Horne Words Susan Locht Fashion Editor James Worthington DeMolet

For supermodels, lucrative and creative work is the reward, and longevity is the challenge. Canadian-born Tasha Tilberg, a 5-foot-9.5-inch stunner who’s graced the pages of Vogue, W, Bazaar, V, and i-D, has both. Working on major campaigns with serious names in photography since the mid-90s, Tilberg continues to storm catwalks and light up photo shoots all over the world. She’s been photographed by the likes of Steven Meisel, Kayt Jones, and Mert and Marcus, and walked the shows for Karl Lagerfeld, Lanvin, and Alexander Wang. Her long list of ad campaigns include Marc by Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, and H&M.

On-set for “Madame X,” Tilberg makes the whole thing look easy. Off-set she is reserved – somewhat shy, even – but one step into the lights, dressed in Comme Des Garçons and Givenchy, and she’s in control. “When I started modelling, I didn’t like it at all,” Tilberg explains. “I was very uncomfortable with the idea that I got paid just to have my picture taken while I knew so many people who worked so hard for almost nothing.” But modelling offered what she describes as a “freedom from shyness” and a chance to collaborate with some amazing artistic visionaries. “I definitely enjoy it more now… For me it’s about the process, the experience of working with these [creative] people.”

When we met, Tilberg had just moved from Echo Park, Los Angeles into a Lower East Side apartment with her wife, Laura Wilson. Tilberg says they returned to Manhattan for one big reason: for her to model. We hope this means we’ll be seeing more of this tattooed, laid-back beauty.

Hair Enrico Mariotti at See Management

Make Up Kristin Gallegos at Bryan Bantry using Shu Uemura

Casting James Worthington DeMolet

Model Tasha Tilberg at One

Location Root Brooklyn

Fashion Assistant Lauren Deleo

Special thanks Marco and Jennifer at amarcordvintagefashion.com