After many years we suddenly saw how FM London, one of the biggest agencies in UK, closed their doors. That was the moment when Ash Mosley, FM Women's Headbooker at that time, finds the opportunity to start his own agency with his particular vision under the name of Present Model Management.
Why and how comes up the idea to found Present?
After FM closed I realized that I didn't want to work for another big agency. I'd spent 18 years working for other people and it was time to do it for myself. Lots of the models had been left high and dry from FM closing, and some came to me and asked if I'd be their mother agent. The plan was for me to place them with other agencies in London and I'd be on call, as and when they needed me. I'd placed a couple of girls, but it soon transpired that others didn't want to go to another agency and wanted me to represent them. So naturally, Present evolved into a fully fledged model agency. Now I represent 42 boys and girls.
What do you consider is the best part of your work and what would you change of the industry?
When you find a boy or a girl out on the street and turn them into a full time working model. Giving them the opportunity to make decent money and travel the world, giving them a chance to do something they may never have dreamed of.
And with regards to changing the industry, well, it's changing every day and for the better. In the past 10 years, the fashion world has moved massively, now it welcomes models from every race, colour and creed and this is down to a handful of people within the industry who have a voice and have chosen to use it. I believe people can stand up and tell the world how they're feeling. I
If they aren't happy about something, they can shout about it. Times are changing for the better, no doubt about it.
I RUN THE AGENCY ENTIRELY BY MYSELF... THIS MEANS I AM RESPONSABLE FOR EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING. THERE IS NO HIDING, NO ONE TO BLAME IF SOMETHING HASN'T BEEN DONE.
From your role as an agent, how would you define success?
I guess just be yourself, it's a tough industry with some big characters in it, but if you remain a good and decent person, then I believe good things will come your way.
Read the full Ash Mosley's interview featured in the Fall Winter 2018 - Issue 1. Get your copy here.
Words and Ash Portrait by Edwin S Freyer.
