Model travels the globe
Fashion model Gio Piantelli poses in Milan, Italy. Photo by Gilad Kavalero
By Tom Victoria
Gio Piantelli is an explorer. The Argentinian fashion model has been throughout Europe and Asia.
He said that exploration is what’s most appealing about modeling.
“Travel through different cities and locations,” Gio said. “Cultural exchange is so enriching. You meet new people, learn new languages.”
The 24-year-old Buenes Aires native has been to such exotic locales as Seoul, Korea; Bangkok, Thailand; and Milan, Italy, where he is working now.
Gio was impressed by how he was treated in Thailand.
“People are so respectful and calm,” he said.
Gio poses at a dock in Lugano, Switzerland. • Photo submitted
Gio said motorists aren’t be too aggressive with pedestrians.
“They will wait for you,” he said.
Gio cited China as having the least appealing working conditions.
“Long days shooting for boring catalog photos that is just sitting,” he said.
Gio said modeling entails comprehension and instinct more so than patience.
“It’s more about understanding the purpose of the shoot and then flow with your intentions,” he said.
Gio also has been to Paris and the United States as his grandparents reside in North Carolina.
When the model was younger, he played sports, including soccer, handball and track.
Gio employs the scenery of Mont Blanc, which borders France and Italy, to be his backdrop. • Photo submitted
“I was a sprinter,” Gio said. “I was so fast.”
He ran 100-meter, 200-meter and 400-meter sprints.
Sport was what led the athlete to modeling.
“My teammates said why don’t you do modeling,” Gio said. “My sister was also telling me.”
Upon feeling out photographers, he ended up doing a shoot in Shanghai at 19.
Among Gio’s subsequent work was a show in Chengdu, China, and a Polish television show, "Mister Supranational."
Gio stays fit by working out.
“Four times a week, mostly in the gym,” he said.
Gio walks along a trail in Lugano. • Photo submitted
Gio explained there’s a fine line in fashion modeling as one can’t be too skinny or too muscular. He said his athletic physique would be different if he wasn’t modeling.
“I would be skinnier or bigger,” Gio said. “I’m skinny by genetics, but I always have some muscle because I love sports.”
Gio focuses on his diet as well.
“I’m vegetarian,” he said. “It’s a very specific and special decision I made, but it paid off. If you do it with knowledge and patience, it’s life-changing.”
He remains motivated to undertake any task whether it’s a modeling assignment or staying in shape by wanting to accomplish his goals.
“It feels good when you finish it,” Gio said.
Gio shows a serious side in Milan, Italy. • Photo submitted
He dispensed advice for aspiring models, starting with good manners.
“You have to take it serious,” Gio said. “You have to be mature.”
He also cited not being uncertain about what you’re doing.
“You really need to have confidence,” Gio said.
He said prospective models must make connections by seeking out photographers and start a portfolio.
“You should take photographs of yourself,” Gio said.
In addition to modeling, he sings and is starting to act.
Among his other interests are the Arts, philosophy and history.
Gio said another aspect of modeling he enjoys is the camaraderie. He explained models assist other models, including showing tricks of the trade and giving tips about the respective market in which they’re working.
“We help each other.”
Gio's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/go.gio_/