The Russia-born model Kati Nescher was discovered in her early twenties while living in Munich, Germany. She was fascinated by modeling from the start, but her passion for film eventually led her to her cinematic debut Green Eyes. Together with Magnus Lechner, she created a dark, atmospheric film in which all the hair, makeup, and styling came from Nescher herself. After the debut, the model and filmmaker spoke with Document about inspiration, icons, and the motivations behind creating her own project.
Inspiration behind the project
“I watched a documentary about my favorite director Ingmar Bergman and discovered that in the late ’70s he secretly settled in Munich because he was harassed by the tax authorities. I was living in Munich myself at the time, before starting modeling, and knew nothing about this story. Curious, I researched and found Ingmar’s house. With the help of my cinematographer, the magic of inspiration happened there!”
From model to director
As an experienced model, Nescher has always admired the work of film directors and actors. “It’s fascinating to experience the entire filmmaking process and to create creatively myself.”
Favorite films and icons
“Very hard to choose just one… All films by Ingmar Bergman! My icons are Meryl Streep, Audrey Hepburn, and Liv Ullman.”
Daily inspiration
“Music, bookstores, art exhibitions, flea markets, and watching people live their lives inspire me every day.”
Isolation and life lessons
Nescher spent the first three months of lockdown in her house in Los Angeles before returning to Munich until June. “The lesson I learned is: don’t forget your meditation!”
Message to the world
“We should protect our beautiful Earth, support each other, and spread love. The simple things are often the most important.”
Special moments in the fashion industry
“I was lucky to have unforgettable experiences. Particularly beautiful were the moments I shared with Peter Lindbergh and Karl Lagerfeld.”
Advice to her younger self
“Don’t overthink!”
As a model and creative artist, Kati Nescher shows that a model’s path doesn’t end on runways and photoshoots. With passion and vision, a model can realize her own projects, reinvent herself, and bridge the gap between modeling and film. For anyone aiming for a career in a model agency or with leading model agencies, Nescher proves that courage, creativity, and initiative are just as important as the classic model path.
