What is the meaning of cult? The spring/summer 2019 issue of Dazed dives into the mystery of cult appeal, bringing together the models who’ve set the agenda for cult status for decades, with the new generation of creatives whose work was shaped by them – celebrating ageless inspiration to be found in agenda-setting work.

As the first of eight print covers, Alek Wek is shot by Tyler Mitchell, while in a tribute to her hometown and distinctive body of work Mariacarla Boscono is lensed in Rome by Charlotte Wales. A cross-generational collaboration brings together McQueen-muse Debra Shaw, breakout London-designer Mowalola Ogunlesi, and photographer Campbell Addy – Shaw and Ogunlesi also sat down for a unique in-conversation in Paris, discussing visibility for black creatives, and superhero fashion. 

Elsewhere in the issue, 13 year-old rap star Matt Ox is a sign of changing times for hip hop, Jeff Goldblum wears Prada and reflects on four decades in film, and Claire Denis discusses sex and sin in deep space with Robert Pattinson, who stars in the auteur’s new film, High Life. Cult no-wave pioneer, Lydia Lunch reflects on her storied career as a disruptor of good taste, Charlie Fox curates a chilling guest edit ahead of his upcoming twin gallery shows, and synthwave syren Tamaryn selects LA’s up and coming Darkwave bands. Poet and artist Diamond Stingily responds to an archival piece from Kathy Acker in our literary section, while generations of UK photographers from Martin Parr to Hanna Moon dive into their archives for photos that reflect life in Brexit Britain. 

Dazed spring/summer 2019 ‘The Meaning of Cult’ issue is on sale Thursday 18 April 

Alek Wek photographed by Tyler Mitchell styled by Robbie Spencer

Karen Elson photographed by Lea Colombo, styled Jacob K

Mariacarla Boscono photographed by Charlotte Wales styled Elizabeth Fraser-Bell

Lara Stone photographed by Brianna Capozzi, styled by Emma Wyman

Debra Shaw photographed  by Campbell Addy, styled by  Emma WymanGuinevere van Seenus photographed by Tom Johnson, styled by Elizabeth Fraser-Bell

Sasha P photographed by Ben Toms, styled by Agata Belcen

Saskia de Brauw photographed by Angelo Pennetta, styled by Robbie Spencer

Jamie Bochert photographed by Letty Schmiterlow, styled by Ellie Grace Cumming

Tasha Tilberg photographed by Suffo Moncloa, styled by Vittoria Cercielo

Kirsten Owen photographed by Casper Sejersen, styled by Robbie Spencer

Querelle Jansen photographed by Julien Martinez Leclerc, styled by Nell Kalonji