JAYDEN MERCURY: RENNASAINCE RESIDENT – JOSH (THOMAS1 BELLIC) REPORTING ~ The SL Enquirer

For those of you who have never met Jayden Mercury, you are missing out on a real treat. Jayden is the creative genius behind three of SL’s Hottest builds. As the founder of Spectre modeling agency, he has helped to train some of the most lovely and talented Models in all of SecondLife. The visionary behind NeverendingSL, he is the Founder, Owner, and Creative Writer, also serving as the Chief Creator of Mercury´s Traits. Additionally, his photo studio, Jayden Mercury Photography and Art, hosts some of the finest and unparalleled examples of the photographic arts. We caught up with this creative dynamo and convinced him, along with two of his trusted Headmistresses, Melinda Bayn and Hanne Kenin, to share a word with our SL Enquirer Readers

Josh (Thomas1 Bellic) (JB): Greetings, Jayden. Thanks for agreeing to chat with me. Let’s start with an easy question. Just what is Spectre all about?

Jayden Mercury (JM): SPECTRE is a modeling agency and school in Second Life that pushes the boundaries of virtual fashion, creativity, and presentation. It’s a platform where models can develop their skills, participate in competitions like SPECTRE Idol, and showcase unique, high-concept styling. The focus is on diversity—not just in fashion, but in representation, identity, and creative expression. It’s a space where individuality is celebrated, and everyone can bring their vision to life on the runway.

Headmistress Melinda Bayn (MB): Honestly, I had hung up my gloves as a runway model in SL... after the great loss of Marcus Lefevre Enimo I didn't feel comfortable working anywhere... So imagine my surprise when I received the invitation from my Boss, Jayden Mercury to join his team... This agency, SPECTRE, became that ray of light and hope to work again under the excellence of the legacy left to us by our mentors.

Headmistress Hanne Kenin (HK): Jayden and I often discussed reviving the discipline and high standards of classic modeling while blending them with fresh challenges that emphasize art and creativity. We wanted to take full advantage of Second Life’s limitless possibilities to bring our visions to life and create truly unique and immersive experiences.

JB: What was your inspiration for Spectre??

JM: I wanted to create a platform that embraces innovation and individuality in virtual modeling. Many agencies focus on traditional high fashion, but I envisioned SPECTRE as a space for storytelling, avant-garde, and unique expressions that might not be possible in real life. My goal is to create a world where creativity knows no limits, allowing models to take risks and push fashion boundaries as an art form. I believe modeling should be inclusive, bold, and empowering.

JB: How many models are you working with?

JM: For our upcoming Sakura Cherry Blossom show on the 22nd, we have a fantastic group of models. The show will feature two walks: one inspired by Dolce & Gabbana and Dior, which will be a sponsored walk, and a freestyle walk where models can express themselves freely. We aim to have models act like performers, telling a story through their movements. The show will be streamed live, and we’re excited to showcase the creativity and talent of our model group.

JB: How many shows do you plan to run in a year?

JM: The goal is to host several themed runway shows and competitions each year, with SPECTRE Idol being the main event. As the agency grows, I plan to introduce more collaborations and showcases.

JB: Do you build your own sets for your runway shows, or do you farm that out to others?

JM: I design and build most of the sets myself to ensure they align with the vision for each show. However, I’m open to collaborations with talented builders to bring fresh perspectives and add variety to the events.

JB: Tell us about NeverendingSL.

JM: NeverendingSL is an immersive storytelling experience based on "The Lost Artist," whose drawings come to life through a magical pen and paper. Visitors can explore the sim, following the artist’s journey through clues and hints embedded in the environment. With the 14th book, "The Shadowartist," already released, the story continues to unfold, inviting visitors to dive deeper into the mystery and adventure.

JB: I understand you also have a Photography business? Tell us about that, what kind of photography do you do and of what subjects?

JM: I run JM Artdesign, focusing on blogging for designers and shopping events. I showcase their collections through photography, highlighting their unique designs. I also offer personalized photography services for clients, providing customized and creative shoots.

Additionally, JM Artdesign hosts a gallery for artists to showcase their work. Artists can book a time at the gallery, which includes consultation, publicity, advertising, and hosting opening and closing galas. It’s a space for creatives to exhibit their art and connect with an audience.

JB: Photographer, Builder, Artist. A true “Renaissance Man”. Do you have any other enterprises in mind?

JM: My main focus is on growing SPECTRE and SPECTRE Idol, expanding these platforms, and creating more opportunities for models and creative expression. I’m also committed to continuing my blogging work and collaborating with designers and sponsors to elevate their brands. In terms of NeverendingSL, the story of "The Shadowartist" will not be the last—there’s much more to come. I’ll keep developing the narrative and immersive experiences, inviting visitors to explore the artist's world.

JB: You have been here almost a dozen years. What is it that keeps you coming back, year after year?

JM: SL offers unparalleled creative freedom. It allows me to bring my artistic visions to life—whether through fashion, photography, or storytelling—without the constraints of the real world. It’s a space where I can create something truly unique and personal.

MB: The platform is incredible. When people on RL ask me if I'm still on Second Life and I tell them yes, they say, "Wow, you're over 15 years there, right?" 17 to be exact. I have a lot of free time, and I'm not that sociable on RL. I like to think I'm creative, and I love everything I get to do on SL. From theater to fashion shows, role-playing as a model, to being a K-pop idol... there are no limits.

HK: The incredible friendships I've built and the endless creative opportunities in Second Life keep me coming back year after year. SL offers a unique space to experiment with styling, create custom poses, and bring characters to life through roleplay. The ability to push artistic boundaries, take on new challenges, and be part of a constantly evolving world makes it an experience I never tire of.

JB: How can readers learn about upcoming events at your various enterprises?

· SPECTRE: To stay updated on SPECTRE events, including SPECTRE Idol and our fashion shows, visit the website, join the Facebook group, or join our Discord community. We also have in-world groups for announcements and updates, and the landmark provides access to the current fashion show.

· NeverendingSL: Follow my blog and Flickr for the latest chapters and immersive experiences. Join the NeverendingSL group in-world for exclusive updates, and use the landmark to explore the ongoing narrative.

· JM Artdesign: Follow my blog and Flickr for updates on photography work, collaborations, and upcoming events. You can also visit the gallery using the provided landmark to check out future exhibitions.

JB: Is there anything else you would like to share with our SL Enquirers Readers?

· SPECTRE: We’re always open to new talent for SPECTRE Idol and also have hiring shows where models can showcase their potential. Don’t miss our Sakura Cherry Blossom show on the 22nd—it’s going to be full of creativity, beauty, and powerful performances. And keep an eye out for SPECTRE Idol later this year—it’s going to be one of the biggest events.

· NeverendingSL: I encourage everyone to visit the current NeverendingSL installation and dive deeper into "The Shadowartist" story. There’s always more to discover as the narrative evolves.

· JM Artdesign: We have a special opening gala planned for the Sakura show, where we’ll showcase models' artwork and styling cards. We’ll also be releasing a magazine featuring the event. Stay tuned for more updates!

JM: If you’re a designer, sponsor, or anyone interested in collaborating, I’m always open to ideas. Anything is possible in Second Life, and I believe we can bring creative visions to life together.

My links:

https://linktr.ee/jaydenmercury (including landmarks, websites, flickr, primfeed, facebook)

Spectre SURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hidden%20Reef/47/236/3060

secondlife:///app/group/3f6de1a9-79af-7061-f38e-fee962bcbe1f/about SPECTRE Society Group

NeverendingSL SURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hidden%20Reef/8/247/18

secondlife:///app/group/5145adf0-bd86-4ac0-3b3b-bb360349f40c/about NeverendingSL Group

Jayden Mercury Art Design SURL: http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Hidden%20Reef/45/182/3059

secondlife:///app/group/d33b76eb-0c1c-bc02-9655-208c21bd02a0/about JM-Artdesign Group

So, there you have it, folks. As SecondLife enters into it’s third decade as a force majeure in the world of all things virtual, Jayden Mercury is certainly one of the movers and shakers making that all possible. Don’t believe me? Go check it out yourself at any of the LMs above. And when you do, tell him Josh sent ya. You’ll be glad you did.

Be there! Aloha!!