Millennial perspectives from the ‘slasher’ generation redefine youth identity
Is ‘slashing’ between careers the answer to job insecurity, or does it provide a much-needed outlet for creative energy?
On a warm autumn evening in Hong Kong, the doors are about to open to an intimate art show at the Naked Hubgallery, tucked away between the streets of Sai Ying Pun. Artist Gedvile Bunikyte is amongthe crowd, introducing her latest works on exhibit. However, the Lithuanian’s talents extend to far more than her beautifully intrinsic geometric artworks.
Bunikyte is what is known as a “slasher” – not someone who slays people in horror movies, but someone who has multiple talents, which she has turned into professional careers – each separated by a “slash” in her job title.
“I am known as an artist / personal trainer/ yoga instructor / writer / activist,” says Bunikyte with a grin that conveys her humble confidence. “I was interested in all of these things through childhood, but always felt like I had to choose one. As a career choice, I wanted to be an artist. But like most artists I need a day job as well, so these parallel careers developed very naturally.”
A post shared by Gedvile Grace Bunikyte (@gedvilegrace) on May 18, 2017 at 9:29pm PDT
Parallel careers
It has become common today for people to have a hard time describing what they do for a living; an increasing number of work-related labels are attached to each individual. The day job gives way to the second (and third or even fourth) job more frequently. And not just in the creative field – the slasher culture has infiltrated every industry. The “financial consultant / music label owner” or “architect / fashion blogger” combos may seem contradictory to some, but make perfect sense to millennials.
Jason Schlabach, brand director of RYSE Hotel in Seoul, and co-founder and art director of Bite Memagazine, shares his opinion: “I wanted to express something personal that I wasn’t doing in client work and not be responsible to any clients or advertisers. Just pure creativity making the decisions,” says the Philadelphia native who has moved move to Asia. “I think like any creative person, I’m always curious.”
Ji Linchen, a Chinese male model, brand creator, reality TV star and hip-hop songwriter, is fast becoming an online sensation in China with his new hit online reality show. “I’m recently into hip-hop music, and have been wanting to start that with my friends,” says the 24-year-old Sichuan native who has already started two clothing brands, walked down European Fashion Week runways and graced campaigns of the likes of Dolce & Gabbana, “I think the young people today are pretty amazing. Everyone is not afraid to do anything, even if they might not be the best at it already.”
