In Partnership with Superga.
She’s the brave fresh-face who flew half way across the world during a global pandemic. Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas and now currently residing in Sydney’s sundrenched shores, Josie Musgrave emulates that youthful energy we long for. A self-proclaimed ‘open book’ and a restless Sagittarius, Musgrave’s first love was photography before being scouted at iconic Coachella music festival.
On an adventure day out in Sydney, Josie shares with RUSSH her visual diary while wearing Superga’s debut Organic Collection. The ultimate sustainable shoe, the organic styles are a natural evolution for a brand that puts our planet earth first. Materials are natural, recyclable and made form organic cotton, natural hemp and organic thread, while featuring a natural cork insole and a 50% recycled rubber sole. Designed to be worn for the everyday and built to last.
We also chat with Josie on her creative inspirations, how she connects with nature and why the ocean seems to put everything into perspective. See the full shoot and interview below.
My name is…
Josie Musgrave.
Where are you from / currently residing?
I’m from Fort Worth, Texas and currently living in Sydney, Australia.
My star sign is…
Sagittarius.
It suits me because…
People say Sagittarius’ are “worldly” and I never stop wanting to move and travel!
What’s the first thing we should know about you?
For some unknown reason people find me intimidating, but I’m an open book!
How long have you been modeling for?
About a year and a half.
When did your passion for photography come about? Was this an organic extension from modeling?
I feel like being a photographer helps me be a better model and vice versa. I was actually a photographer first! I started taking pictures with a childhood friend when I was around 14 years old. I continued through University where it became more of a job than a hobby, and was actually scouted while photographing some friends at the music festival Coachella! The transition happened pretty seamlessly as I was able to think about what I would want as a photographer when I modeled.
What moments or places do you love to capture?
I love to capture emotion and movement. I feel like both help tell an actual story.
What other artists/photographers/ creatives inspire you?
At the moment I'm getting a lot of inspiration from people in general, not necessarily photographers. I find that the simplicity of everyday life allows me to take an idea and really make it my own. Just walking down the street, seeing someone stand a certain way or do a task, even what their wearing and randomly posting on Instagram can give me inspiration. That being said, my ultimate inspiration is Ansel Adams, not many people remember him but he would travel around the American West and literally live for the art. His story helps me stay grounded and, in the moment, when I'm shooting.
How do you stay creative and motivated during this time of global unrest?
Wherever I go I take pictures of my surroundings. Whether it's a location I want to remember and plan a shoot around, or just an aesthetically pleasing sight. I can look back at those pictures or scroll through my many mood boards on Pinterest when I need inspiration!
How do you stay healthy, mentally and physically? Does mediation form part of your day to day?
Honestly, I’m still trying to figure that out, but I’m on the right track! I love going to a hard workout class at least 3 times a week. When I leave class, I feel so accomplished and proud of myself, it really helps put my mind in a positive, motivated mood. I wish I could say that I meditate all the time, but I’m not disciplined enough to yet. I truly believe it works, so it is a goal of mine to get it together enough to make meditation part of my daily routine!
What do you do when you need to connect with nature?
The beach is my happy place. I love the feeling of sand in between my toes. Every time I’m there, I’m in awe of the ocean’s vastness. It really helps put everything into perceptive, like no matter what’s going wrong in my life, it’s such a tiny blip compared to the big picture.
After wearing Superga's new Organic Collection, what was your favourite style to adventure in?
They were all super versatile and comfy but I think my favourite would have to be the 2750 low style because of the minimalistic aspects. It was super easy to style and slip on when on the go, I also love that the brand has taken a step towards a sustainable future.
What is the bravest thing you’ve ever done?
Probably moving half way across the country at 18, then all the way to the other side of the country, and then half way around the world. Oh and then deciding to stay half way around the world, alone, during a global pandemic. Scary!
Is there anything you’ve grown to cherish or appreciate during this time?
I’ve really learned not to take my family for granted, and to appreciate everything they’ve done for me more. I’m lucky that everyone in my family is safe and healthy, but there are so many others who can’t say the same.
What is your current state of mind?
Happy and Hopeful!
What are you hopes and dreams for the future?
My dreams are pretty cliché. I hope I get to travel a lot, have a successful career, and continue to feel happy.
You can shop the new Organic Collection via the Superga Website.
Be sure not to miss Part I and Part II of our Stay Home Diaries series featuring our model muses photographed in isolation by Josie Musgrave.