A YOUNG woman has spoken how embracing the alternative has empowered her.
Today, Kitty Von Crypt is a celebrated alternative model, burlesque artist, and circus performer.
She even breathes fire!
She puts it down to embracing the alternative aesthetic, enabling the then awkward Colwyn Bay teenager to transform into the striking performer she is now.
Kitty, of Colwyn Bay, said: I didn't have a lot of self confidence growing up and modelling in the alternative style gave me something to be proud of and made me feel comfortable in my own skin.
"When I started doing the more raunchy stuff I was amazed at how good I felt afterwards, its so freeing."
Kitty Von Crypt.
St Asaph-born Kitty is well-known in North Wales and beyond, performing at many events including Conwy Pirate Festival, Rhyller Thriller, and Colwyn Bay Pride.
She is also part of Inferno, a collective of alternative circus performers based in Cheshire and North Wales.
She added: "I would describe myself as a professional weirdo, haha!
"I am an alternative model and circus performer as well as a content creator. I have been modelling since I was 16 (so over 15 years!) and performing for maybe around eight years.
"I started by doing alternative fashion modelling and horror photoshoots and over the years it has grown into what it is today. "
Kitty Von Crypt.
Recently, Kitty won a prestigious award and is currently nominated for two more.
Details and how to vote can be found on her Instagram page.
Although amassing a legion of fans and followers, Kitty says that members of the public are not always as understanding when it comes to her unique style, which includes multiple piercings and facial tattoos.
Kitty Von Crypt.
But she has the support of her family and friends.
Kitty added: "My family and friends are super supportive, they all understand that I am my own person and have my own path in life to follow.
"Members of the public, not so much, haha. I have had a lot of negative reactions in the past but I don't really pay much attention to it! "
Kitty also works as a piercer in studios in Colwyn Bay and Llandudno.
He ultimate aim in her work is to be happy, but there is one stage she would like to grace.
She said: "I just want to have fun and be happy! And if I ever get the chance to perform my fire act at Download Festival I'd be pretty happy."
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