Tasha Tilberg Talks 'Meaning of Cult' Lensed By Suffo Moncioa For Dazed SS2019
/Model icon Tasha Tilberg is styled by Vittoria Cerciello in the Armani Exchange editorial. Suffo Moncioa is behind the lens for Dazed Magazine’s ‘The Meaning of Cult’ issue Spring/Summer 2019. Emma Elizabeth Davidson interviews the 90s catwalk regular who has returned to the fashion stage, with the goal of talking serious subjects. For Dazed, her focus is pure ‘cult’ with a smooth blend of sobriety.
What does the word cult mean to you?
Tasha Tilberg: When I think of the word ‘cult’ so many things come to mind. Cult is very much about subculture, or counterculture: a certain segment of society that’s attracted and drawn to a particular thing. Fringe dwellers, or people wanting to escape their mundane lives maybe, who are attracted for unknown reasons. Maybe it’s a way to belong to something, or for people to break the boundaries and restrictions of their lives, finding freedom outside the ‘normal’ or the path that’s expected.
Why do you think you’re a cult model?
Tasha Tilberg: I can’t say I ever really considered myself a cult model, but upon reflection I can see why I might fit that description. I took my own path, I was probably a bit of a fringe dweller. I’ve pushed boundaries, or refused them, and have never fit into what the mainstream would define as ‘normal’.
If you were to start a cult, what would you centre it around, and what would your policies be?
Tasha Tillberg: I’d probably start with a dress code: my friend Alana said I dressed like an Amish Goth. I like that, it seems right for me. But I would never dictate of course. So... I think my cult would involve a land-based group eschewing electricity, and kind of harmonising with the land and each other. Living off it and growing what they needed, but there would be lots of open communication as well as manual labour (which makes one feel alive) and musical and artistic expression. Drum circles and incense and fire sticks and flowers. Finding space to thrive and creating harmony. A cult seeking utopia.