Meet Chris Zaremba, London Legend and World Champion Fitness Model

October 15, 2024

When was the last time you had your face painted? Maybe it was at a childhood party or a local fair, where your chosen design sparked a day of make-believe. Revisiting this playful ritual, artists Angel Velluto and Janina Zais ventured across London to meet eight seniors whose stories showcased resilience and strength. Each participant filled out a Proustian-inspired questionnaire, and their responses were discussed before being transformed into one-of-a-kind masks by Zais. Throughout this creative process, we had the chance to learn more about why the face paint they chose was a meaningful tribute to their lives.

Chris Zaremba's transformation story is one for the ages. At 51, after a sobering conversation with his doctor, Chris decided to overhaul his lifestyle, ultimately becoming a World Champion fitness model. Today, he runs his own business, helping clients over 50 stay fit and healthy. Chris has completed 10 marathons and won the Miami Pro World Champion titles for both Fitness and Muscle Models in his age group in 2014. Here's a glimpse into the life of a man who proves that it's never too late to take control of your health.

Creative Angel Velluto
Producer Angel Velluto and Janina Zais
Interview by Angel Velluto
Photography by Jan-Micheal Stasiuk
Face-Paint by Janina Zais
Director/DOP Ruby Harris
Editor Helen Teixeira
Casting by Angel Velluto

Where were you born?

South London, 1956.

Where do you feel most comfortable?

At home cuddling my wife! But outside of the home, my favorite places are my local gym, the steam railway, and my local pubs.

What quality do you think defines you most?

My empathy; I’m able to see issues from the other person’s viewpoint and adjust my attitude accordingly. I’m also organized, and my life revolves around spreadsheets for data and our family diary.

What do you look for in a companion?

Probably the same as the last answer — plus of course shared interests.

What is your biggest weakness?

Chocolate and real ale!

So many people don't realize that their happiness and healthfulness are under their control.

What has surprised you most in life?

So many people don't realize that their happiness and healthfulness are under their control.

What does your perfect day look like?

5k run, breakfast, training a client, lunch in a pub, stretching, admin, weights workout, and dinner with a film on TV with my wife.

What is your favorite color?

Blue.

Who are your favorite fictional characters?

Jean-Luc Picard, the Tracy family (Thunderbirds), and a few TV detectives.

Who or what is your biggest inspiration?

My first personal trainer — Rob Riches.

What is your favorite food?

Ham, eggs, and chips with a pint of real ale in my local pub.

What quality do you dislike most in someone?

When someone is self-centered, and not considering other people.

What are your earliest memories?

The Cuban Missile Crisis and Great Train Robbery.

What is your biggest luxury?

I only travel business class long-haul.

How do you show someone you love them?

Gifts, kisses, and nice surprises.

Culture

Callie Reiff and Sophia Wilson's Tour de NYFW

September 10, 2024

Last night at Jean’s amidst the whirlwind of NYFW, Producer/DJ Callie Reiff and director/photographer Sophia Wilson hosted a special edition of ‘tour de les,’ the New York party series created by Callie and her creative partner Raquel Michel. In collaboration with NEXT Management, the event celebrated the release of Reiff’s 'My Room' video, directed by Wilson, with photos captured by the legendary Cobrasnake. Party-goers including fashion influencer Clara Perlmutter, models Luisa Piou, Aliyah Wan, Faith Harper and Zahara Davis enjoyed DJ sets from Callie and friends. In a nod to the video, a bed took center stage in the room where guests indulged in pillow fights, makeouts, and devoured cake. Notable faces from Nike and Gucci turned up to support their favorite rising artists, making the night an unforgettable blend of fashion, music, and unrestrained fun.

Photography Cobrasnake

Stream Callie's new video:

Culture

Vans Threw a Block Party for the Books

I'm horny and scared of New Yorkers — Lisandro of @drovision 10:14 p.m.

Exhausted but always down — Matthew from @notaninfluencerbrand 10:17 p.m.

I don’t know when to leave
I feel stuck
I’m pretty hungry and I just wanna smoke
— anonymous 11:02 p.m.

Is there free beer here? Why is there not free beer here? Oh there’s free beer here…
— Carly Goldstein 11:14 p.m.

It’s nice to not be at a NYFW party :)
there is so much trade
I <3 bushwick
There aren’t clout chasers here yay
— Anon plz xoxo 11:35 p.m.

Best seat in the house.
— tyy.dyy 12:05 a.m.

I feel great tonight.
— anon 12:30 a.m.

As the night wound down and the crowd thinned, it was clear that Vans had done more than just throw a party. Everyone had a blast as did we! See for yourself below: