Win caps purple patch for model

Busselton alternative model Madison Kelsey has claimed yet another title after last month claiming the top spot at Sullen Angel Perth 2018.

Held during the Perth Tattoo Expo on September 15, the competition pitted eight entrants against each other over three rounds including Sullen Street Wear, Angel Ink Tattoo Wear and Sullen Glamour Evening Wear.

The youth worker told the Times she was on “cloud nine” after the win, which follows a stellar 12-month streak claiming such titles as runner-up at Girls Of Ink Perth last year, winner of Miss Ink Adelaide this year and winner of Miss Tattoo and Custom Culture Auckland.

“I am honestly overwhelmed with all the support I’ve received as well and so grateful for the opportunities I've been given with these competitions,” Ms Kelsey said.

“When I first decided to compete I never anticipated they’d take me this far, but they’ve allowed me to travel, meet so many people and provided me with a platform to promote all of the things I’m passionate about.

“I get messages from women saying that my story and message has inspired them and that fills my heart with so much joy, to know that I am helping people to view themselves in a more positive light.”

With more than two-thirds of her body covered in tattoos — all by artist Tim Howe of Purple Crown Tattoo Cowaramup and South West Tattoo Bunbury — Ms Kelsey uses body art as a form of self-expression and pageants as a platform to share her message of self-love.

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think I’d come as far as I have with pageants but I’m so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone, stopped caring what other people thought and went after what I wanted,” she said.

“Also, to anyone who has a dream they feel or have been made to feel they would never achieve it — go out and chase it.

“Never give up and never let someone tell you that what you want is impossible.”

As the winner of Sullen Angels Perth, Ms Kelsey will now go on to compete in the grand final in Melbourne in December.

To keep up to date with Ms Kelsey’s career or to vote for her in the Sullen finals, go to the Facebook page, Madison Kelsey — Alternative Model.