Meet Patrick Kuan from London who moved to LA 5 years ago to pursue modelling.
Was there a particular reason why you chose to move to LA?
I had previously visited LA while on a modeling gig shooting for Harley Davidson. It was mid- February and to be cruising around on a motorcycle in a T-shirt and jeans just felt totally enlivening. When I got home it wasn’t long before I informed family and friends that I was California bound.
In modeling terms what are the differences between the UK and LA markets?
When I work in the UK the majority of jobs are predominantly editorial and fashion oriented whereas in LA it’s all about the commercial side of the business.
What’s the most important aspect of modeling one should consider when working in LA?
With the weather the way it is over here so many of the advertising campaigns take advantage of it and often require a certain amount of flesh on show. With that in mind I’d have to say to make sure that the body’s in as good a shape as possible. The competition here is intense and anything in your control you should be on top of.
What do you miss most from home?
Being a proper uncle. I’ve got eight nieces/nephews and not being around all that often to see them grow up is a little upsetting. Thank God for Skype. Other than that I’d have to say London’s parks.
What was your first impression of LA and has it changed since? If so, why?
When I moved to LA properly my first impression of LA was that it wasn’t a city at all. I’d lived in London and NY, my idea of proper cities, and couldn’t find any similarities between them. It just seemed like one huge car park full of the worst drivers trying to navigate some of the worst road surfaces I’d ever experienced. I mean there are pot holes and then there are POT HOLES! After a few months of being here though I became less critical, compared less and focused on all that was good about LA. I’m now at a point where I can’t imagine living anywhere else.
What do you find the biggest difference is living here versus London?
It’s a cliché but I’d have to say the attitude of the people. I found London to have more than its fair share of naysayers whereas in LA optimism abounds almost to a fault. I think the weather plays a huge part in it. I’m sure it can’t be purely cultural.
Do you have a hidden gem in LA that you want to share with us?
Shahr Salon and Wellness. I don’t have much use for the salon but the outdoor yoga is great. When I lived in WeHo I picked up a Groupon for this place and loved every session. A really tranquil setting, with three great teachers and more often than not it was just myself and maybe two or three others. On the Westside it’s got to be my local coffee shop, Dog Town Coffee. Not particularly hidden but does serve a terrific Spanish latte.
What would you suggest to others who are thinking about making the move here?
Definitely give yourself time to settle. Take a motorcycle test when you get here. It’s dead easy to pass and if you decide to get a bike you’ll save yourself hours of time stuck in traffic and love every minute you’re on it.
If your your life was a TV show what would be the theme tune and why?
“Easy” by the Commodores. I do my best to live in a stress free zone.
Patrick Kuan is represented by Click Models/ Follow him on Twitter @OneBigAct
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