Nomi Ruiz
Nomi Ruiz is a creator, writer, activist, singer, songwriter and actor. She stars in Nick Sasso’s directorial debut, Haymaker, out now on Apple TV and iTunes. The film centers on a retired Muay Thai fighter who, while preparing for a return to the ring, becomes the bodyguard for an alluring transgender performer. Nomi made her acting debut on FX’s Mayans MC. This summer, Nomi has new music coming out.
Nomi also has a single, Like A Ghost, with Sam Sparro (Black & Gold), which is the title song of the film, streaming now.
Dress by Vincent Licari
Jewelry by Erickson Beamon
What pushed you to be in the entertainment industry?
Music has been in me innately since I was a child. Writing, singing and creating came so natural to me. I grew up around a lot of gang violence and addictive personalities. Music gave me a way to express myself and was a means to escape internally and eventually in the outside world.
How was it playing a singer in Haymaker, and did it help to have a background in that area?
It was actually not as easy as I thought it would be to play a character so close to my personal experience. It opened up a lot of old wounds, which I guess is great for the acting element of It, but it was hard to turn those emotions off when they yelled cut.
What was your favorite part in playing the leading role in Haymaker, and how did it differ from your roles in the past?
This was my first time acting so I don’t have anything to compare it to other than performing on stage. The moments when I’m performing in the movie are definitely some of my favorites because I am so in my element.
Left:
Bow by The Blonds
Pants by TIBI
Right:
Gloves by Bruno Cucinelli
Who are some of your musical influences, and how do they affect the creation of your music?
I love Faith Evans. I learned how to harmonize by studying her records. Mary J Blige, Nina Simone, and Donny Hathaway are also my favs. I learned how to emote and not think so much about the technicality of performing from them. They are always in the moment.
Left:
Blazer by Dolce & Gabbana
Earrings + Ring by David Yurman
Right:
Trench Coat by Model’s Own
Earrings by David Yurman
What has been your favorite project, and why?
It’s difficult to pinpoint one favorite project, but a really special project I was a part of was Anne Imhof’s SEX Exhibition at the Tate Modern. I had never been so emersed in performing the way I did for SEX. We were locked into a type of fantasy for hours. I learned so much about patience, endurance, and pushing the limits of my body in a way I hadn’t before.
Left:
Dress by Dolce & Gabbana
Veil by Eric Javitts
Earrings by Erickson Beamon
Right:
Dress by Nicole Miller
Necklace by Stylist Own
What abilities do you think people need to have if they to be successful in the entertainment industry?
You need to have a sick obsession with creation in order to succeed as an artist. I believe there’s an aspect of suffering that all artists experience. You have to be able to endure that and somehow allow it to motivate you.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
Do something for your art every day, even a small gesture.
Do you ever see yourself behind the camera?
Definitely. I’ve written two screenplays that I’m looking forward to seeing come to life.
What is your life’s motto?
Trying is a glamorous way of failing.
Can you link us with your social media?
CREW CREDITS:
Creative Director: Mike Ruiz
Photographer: Joshua Pestka
Talent: Nomi Ruiz
Fashion Stylist: Alison Hernon at Agency Gerard Artists
Hair: Clay Nielsen using Aveda
Makeup: Tiffany Patton using NARS Cosmetics
Assistant Fashion Stylist: Sydney Heughins
Interview by Victoria Durant, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets: Caitriona Moran, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
