Jon Kortajarena: The Passionate Spaniard, by Isabelle and Jed (Spanish translation by Elena)

It's easy to think modesty and sharp intelligence are qualities natural to Spanish men, but there's something that distinguishes Jon Kortajarena from the rest. Jon can claim major player Just Cavalli as his first foray in high fashion, followed soon by a widespread campaign with the venerated Versace.

In spite of his extraordinary beginning, our down-to-earth Jon disputes that he is so beautiful, but instead just a 'boy of the moment' who is able to convey an emotion. What he doesn't include, and what we all see in the compelling Spaniard, is what he conveys with: dark, potent intellect in his shady green eyes, expressive lips - somber, amused, coy - and body language that is specific to his intent.

This worldly fellow, whose curiosities lie in creative arts (design, photography, and film, oh my!), traveling, and meeting new people, has beguiled us with more than his stellar body and lovable grin. What keeps us coming back are the brains and maturity that got him where he is today.

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MW: Describe your first modeling experience. What was it like, where was it held?

My first professional experience was in Cibeles (Madrid) for Roberto Verino. I was nervous but everything went very well.

MW: How were you discovered?

Everything started when I met Eduardo Sayas and he suggested I go to Barcelona to meet some customers. I didn’t doubt it and went there. I didn’t know what was waiting for me but I had a good feeling.

MW: Tell us your experience while doing these projects?

- The Springfield Campaign;

It was very special. The team was wonderful and among them was one of my best friends. Besides, I was looking forward to working with Jaume de la Iguana, I love what he does and how he does it. I had a very a good time and the result has really satisfied me.

- The Versace Campaign;

It was the first season I spent in NY and obviously it's been the assignment that's marked me more so far. It was all very fast and very professional.

- Just Cavalli campaign;

It was made right after I started working as a model and I wasn't very aware of the importance it would have afterwards. I remember that we made it in a huge house in the outskirts of Paris and we were freezing.

- The Fanta ad;

It was the first spot I had done at the time and it was good fun. It was hard, because we had to spend lots of hours shooting but it was worth it.

MW: What are the reactions of your family about modeling? Is this a factor that somehow influenced you over your professional choice?

At first my decision was not received that well, mainly because they didn’t know the world I was about to jump into and they were very scared. With time they've seen that I haven't renounced any of the core values they passed on to me as a child, therefore they have accepted it and I know I can count on all their support.

MW: First runway show in Milan. Who for? How did it feel to walk down the runway for the first time?

When I arrived in Milan I had already done some catwalk work, but still, the sensation was unbelievable, especially if you take into account that it was Armani himself who gave me the chance.

MW: Tell us what would be your dream modeling assignment. Your ideal location shoot, photographer, the models you wished you would do the shoot and the Designer/Fashion you will be modeling for?

There are many versions of the ideal project. I would like to do good works with photographers such as Mario Testino or Bruce Weber, travel to India or Thailand and sign for designers such as Valentino or Tom Ford.

MW: Who do you hang out with? Who are some of your model friends?

I still keep the same friends I had before starting working as a model, but obviously I have found fantastic people I love very much on the way, such as Andres Velencoso, Oriol Elcacho or Matteo Casnici.

MW: How does it feel to find out that you have fans who follow your career and want to know more about you?

It seems funny but I feel thankful in any case.

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