Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Amik Kler. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Amik, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you open up about a risk you’ve taken – what it was like taking that risk, why you took the risk and how it turned out?
There was a time in my life when I felt completely disconnected from myself, unsure of my future, and unfulfilled despite outward success. I had followed the traditional path society prescribes: go to school, earn a degree, secure a job, and work hard to build a stable life. By all accounts, I was doing everything “right.” I lived in Northern Virginia, just outside Washington, D.C., working for a prestigious Big 4 consulting firm after earning a degree in business, marketing, and communications. But despite the accomplishments and stability, something fundamental was missing—I felt out of alignment with who I truly was.
My passions—fashion, art, food, travel, and spirituality—were relegated to the sidelines, mere hobbies that didn’t seem to fit into the bureaucratic, structured world of corporate America. I felt suffocated by the rigid framework of a career that didn’t nurture my creative soul. I needed space to breathe, to create, and to rediscover myself. When my lease ended, I made a bold decision: I packed up my life and moved one hundred thirty miles south to Richmond, Virginia, in search of something more meaningful.
Richmond, with its artsy vibe and rich historical tapestry, became my sanctuary. Nestled between rivers and mountains, it was the perfect backdrop for self-reflection and renewal. I withdrew from social obligations and spent months grounding myself through meditation, yoga, and journaling. I immersed myself in creative practices like painting and poetry, reconnecting with the artist within. Though it felt risky to step away from the life I had built, the pause gave me clarity and resilience.
It was during this period of exploration that a pivotal moment occurred. At an acquaintance’s clothing brand launch, a photographer approached me and asked if I was a model. I laughed it off, insisting I wasn’t, but he encouraged me to try, even offering a test shoot. After some thought, I agreed. He invited me to contribute creatively to the shoot’s concept and styling, which I eagerly embraced. The results exceeded my expectations and caught the attention of others, leading to more opportunities—small projects, runway shows, and brand campaigns that gradually built the foundation of my modeling portfolio.
Several months later, with growing experience and confidence, I set my sights on walking in New York Fashion Week. It was an audacious goal—NYFW is globally renowned and fiercely competitive—but I felt ready to take the leap. My experience was a mix of glamour and challenges, but I managed to book several shows and walk the runway. Achieving this dream affirmed something deep within me: I needed to be in New York City, where my creative spirit and artistry would be understood and embraced.
Returning home after NYFW, I realized it was now or never. I took my biggest risk yet and moved to New York City—a place where I knew no one and where the challenges were immense, but also where my dreams awaited. It was in this city that I found my stride. Fashion is not just about clothing, and modeling is far more than appearances. For me, they are powerful forms of self-expression—a way to embody my authenticity, embrace my queerness, honor my individuality, and create a life that is vibrant, meaningful, and unapologetically true to who I am.
As I continued to model, I also immersed myself in supporting other creatives. I collaborated with photographers, stylists, and designers, learning about the various disciplines that make up creative direction and art direction. Soon, I found myself coordinating photoshoots, styling clothing, and curating immersive art salons. Each project expanded my understanding of the creative world and strengthened my resolve to follow this path.
Taking these risks completely transformed my life. My daily life feels like stepping into a film—arriving for hair and makeup before a runway show, traveling to stunning photoshoot locations, attending gallery events to connect with artists, and enjoying exclusive dining experiences. Had I not taken that leap of faith, I’d likely still be sitting at home, feeling uninspired and unfulfilled. The greatest lesson I’ve learned is that discomfort often precedes growth. Pursuing what ignites your passion is always worth the risk. To anyone uncertain about their path: trust yourself, take the leap, and embrace the unknown. Life-changing moments are born from life-changing risks.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
My identity is shaped by the duality that has followed me throughout my life. As an Indian immigrant born in Toronto and raised in Northern Virginia from a young age, I’ve navigated the intersections of cultures, identities, and experiences. I’m a Gemini, a dual citizen, and a genderqueer, non-binary person. I’ve never resonated with labels; instead, I embrace fluidity and evolution, allowing life to shape me organically.
Spirituality has been my anchor, guiding me through life’s adversities, including surviving physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. It’s also shaped my perspective on mental health, an area I prioritize by practicing meditation, yoga, and journaling. While I’ve faced challenges like anxiety and depression, I’ve come to see healing as a transformative journey—not only for ourselves but also for those around us. My mission is to inspire others to embrace their light, heal, and lead enriched lives.
Venus rules my creative world, drawing me toward beauty, aesthetics, and the finer things in life. I am a foodie, fashion enthusiast, spiritualist, and alchemist. These identities converge in my lifelong curiosity and deep appreciation for how things present themselves in the world. Fashion and art are my greatest sources of inspiration, each offering unique ways to connect, express, and communicate.
To me, fashion is the ultimate form of self-expression. It’s how we announce ourselves to the world—our first hello and final goodbye. Beyond appearances, it reflects individuality and shapes identity. Visual art, on the other hand, is the language of emotions, stories, and shared experiences. It offers us a way to communicate the intangible—our feelings, histories, and dreams—and invites others into our inner worlds. Together, these forms of expression foster meaningful connections, which I strive to elevate in my work.
My modeling journey sharpened my eye for visual storytelling, leading to opportunities to direct fashion shoots and consult on creative projects. A pivotal moment came when I attended an art salon in Manhattan, an experience that ignited a deep passion for immersive, multidisciplinary creativity. The vibrant energy of that evening—intellectual conversations, sensory delights, and the electric atmosphere—showed me the potential of blending art, fashion, and storytelling in innovative ways.
This newfound passion led to hosting my own immersive art salon during New York Fashion Week. Inspired by the chaos and glamour of backstage fashion shows, I created an event that brought together models, designers, DJs, and visual artists in a dynamic, sensory-rich environment. Transforming a Meatpacking District lounge into a high-fashion, multi-arts space, we curated a journey that celebrated creativity while breaking traditional boundaries. The response was overwhelmingly positive, inspiring new collaborations and solidifying my focus on immersive, experiential art.
As I explored the world of immersive art, I became fascinated by the intersection of technology, fashion, and creativity. AR and VR installations opened my eyes to the possibilities of redefining art salons, transforming them into interactive, boundary-pushing experiences. A recent collaboration in a historic SoHo townhouse exemplified this vision. In a space filled with bohemian charm and an underground “bunker” atmosphere, we curated an art salon exploring the concept of time—blending the past, present, and future into a cohesive narrative.
This event combined traditional and cutting-edge art forms, from live jazz and spoken word to AI-generated installations and avant-garde fashion. Designers challenged ideas about identity and gender, while robotic voices and interactive exhibits engaged guests in deeply personal, immersive experiences. These salons embody my goal: to create transformative events that push the limits of art, technology, and human connection.
These experiences inspired me to establish my creative consultancy, where I specialize in crafting cohesive brand strategies, directing multidisciplinary teams, and designing immersive campaigns. As a Creative Director, my focus spans fashion, art, luxury, and spirituality. Whether rebranding businesses or curating sensory experiences, I aim to balance innovation with a deep understanding of aesthetics and strategy.
What sets me apart is my ability to integrate creativity with strategy seamlessly. My work isn’t just about creating visually compelling pieces; it’s about designing experiences that resonate emotionally, foster connection, and achieve tangible results. Whether I’m developing an AR-powered fashion campaign or hosting a multidisciplinary art salon, I approach every project with a commitment to excellence, curiosity, and pushing creative boundaries.
At the heart of everything I do is a belief in the power of art, fashion, and storytelling to inspire and connect. My work combines emerging technologies, traditional craft, and innovative thinking to create experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable. I challenge norms, take risks, and embrace the unconventional, always with the goal of elevating perspectives and fostering growth.
For me, every project is an opportunity to make a difference—not just for the brands and clients I work with, but for the communities they touch. By blending art, technology, and human connection, I strive to create work that leaves lasting impressions and contributes to a collective sense of progress and creativity.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Art connects us, challenges us, and inspires growth, yet its importance is often overshadowed by profit-driven pursuits. To honor its role in our lives, we must recognize the immense value artists bring to our emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Art is not a luxury but a cornerstone of humanity—an essential means of expressing our shared experiences, fostering empathy, and driving innovation.
Supporting artists requires a cultural shift in how we value creativity. This begins with education, where the arts should stand alongside STEM subjects as fundamental to early learning. Encouraging creativity from a young age ensures its recognition as vital to personal and societal development. Beyond education, artists need practical tools—financial literacy, marketing strategies, and business skills—to navigate their careers with confidence and secure fair compensation for their work.
Financial and structural support are equally critical. Artists thrive when they have access to grants, sponsorships, and collaborative spaces like co-working studios and shared equipment. These resources reduce barriers, especially for emerging talent, and create opportunities for artists to build sustainable careers.
Networks and communities also play a vital role in fostering creativity. Mentorship and collaboration nurture innovation, while mental health support helps artists navigate the unique pressures of financial instability and societal expectations. Creating spaces where artists can recharge and feel valued fosters a culture of abundance over scarcity.
To further elevate the arts, we must break the stigma surrounding creative careers, often seen as secondary to traditional paths. Highlighting the economic and cultural impact of the arts—through innovation, tourism, and community development—shifts this narrative, garnering the respect and recognition artists deserve.
Public engagement and supportive policies are equally essential. Tax incentives for art investors, affordable housing solutions for urban artists, and stronger copyright protections ensure financial security and creative autonomy. Public art initiatives like murals, festivals, and exhibitions enrich communities, making art accessible while celebrating its creators.
Art is essential to the human experience, and its survival depends on collective action. By investing in artists and fostering an environment where creativity is valued and supported, we build a world that celebrates connection, innovation, and progress. A thriving creative sector benefits everyone, leaving a transformative and lasting impact on society.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
As an ethnic queer individual who has faced relentless hate, judgment, and rejection for simply being myself—whether it’s the way I express myself, the people I love, or how I choose to dress—I’ve learned firsthand how deeply hurtful the world can be. The cruelty, the abuse, the anger—it has often felt unrelenting. But through it all, I’ve discovered the power of transformation. Rather than allowing pain to define me, I’ve learned to metabolize it, to channel it into something positive. My mission is simple: to help make the world a kinder, more compassionate, and more understanding place—free from judgment and open to diversity.
At the core of this vision is love. It’s really that simple. The Beatles were right when they said, “All you need is love.” Love is the antidote to hate, the bridge between difference, and the force that can heal the world. I’m not just talking about romance, Love takes many forms, such as the bonds shared with family and friends. I want to create a movement that celebrates love in all its forms—whether that’s through the art of self-expression, through nurturing spaces of beauty and wonder, or by fostering deeper understanding.
I envision future spaces that reflect my inner world—spaces filled with light, understanding and curiosity. These are spaces where people are free to explore their identities and embrace their truth. I dream of an environment where spirituality, queer liberation, and personal evolution coexist, and where success isn’t just about financial gain, but about giving back to communities that have been historically underserved and marginalized—particularly Trans individuals and South Asian immigrants.
I want to create an ecosystem of love, growth, and opportunity. A place where people can feel seen, heard, and valued for who they truly are. This is my purpose: to spark a movement that lifts others up, celebrates their uniqueness, and fosters a world where love, beauty, and compassion reign.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.amikkler.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hamm1k/hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akler5/
Image Credits
Richard Copier; Chia-Ta Thai