Bart Geldenhuys is no stranger to the world of modelling, bringing his unique energy and style to every project. This South African model lives a dynamic life, balancing his love for skating around Cape Town with his work as a massage therapist. For Yummyzine 7, photographer Sasha Olsen captured Bart in a stunning mansion in Camps Bay, showcasing him at his boldest as the sun set over the ocean. In this interview, we explore the fearless, creative life Bart leads, from his unconventional modelling journey to his passion for helping others find peace through massage therapy. Join us as we dive deep into the world of Bart Geldenhuys—a man who is redefining authenticity and embracing life with energy, confidence, and creativity.
The images are cropped/ made safe for online purposes, full images available inside Yummyzine Issue Seven
Photo story by sasha olsen, interview by Adrian Gomis Exposito
ADRIAN GOMIS EXPOSITO. Hi Bart! It is a pleasure to get to know you. Tell us a little about where you grew up in South Africa. What was your life before moving to Cape Town like?
BART GELDENHUYS. Thanks so much! I was born in Johannesburg but moved to Stellenbosch when I was two years old. Growing up in Stellenbosch was a dream—skateboarding to school and skating after school until the sun went down. I was also a big rugby player throughout primary and high school, but honestly, I played any and every sport I could find—except for water polo and hockey.
AGE. What were your biggest passions or dreams when you were younger? Did you ever imagine yourself becoming a model?
BG. Skateboarding and rugby were my two biggest passions when it came to sports, but I always had a strong passion for helping others. To be honest, modeling was never something I thought I would end up doing.
AGE. How did you start your modelling journey? Was it something you actively pursued or fell into by chance?
BG. When I was 15, my mom took a few photos of me and sent them to Ice Models in Cape Town. They responded by saying, ‘Give your son a few years to grow into his face, and then try us again.’ I didn’t think much of it after that. Years later, when I was 22, I was working behind a bar at a festival when a woman ordering a tequila shot asked me if I was a model. I laughed and said no—I was bartending shirtless at the time. She then asked if she could take a photo and send it to an agency. Honestly, I thought she just wanted a picture of me, so I smiled and gave a thumbs-up. The following week, I was invited to a meeting with Pure Model Management—and that’s how I got signed.
AGE. Do you remember your very first modelling job? What was it, and how did it feel stepping into the industry for the first time?
BG. I definitely do. When I started my career, I did a few stock image jobs—very basic shoots where the images could be used by any brand to market their products. The idea was simply to get comfortable in front of the camera and get a feel for how the industry works. At first, I was very nervous, but by communicating with the photographer, I quickly became comfortable behind the camera.
AGE. Growing up, who or what inspired your sense of style or confidence?
BG. Growing up, I didn’t really have a defined style. I had confidence, but my focus was on comfort—I mostly wore shorts, slip-slops, and a vest. However, that quickly changed when I started modeling, as I had to wear all kinds of outfits for castings. So, I guess the industry ended up inspiring my current style.
AGE. You’ve been in the industry for a while now. How has modelling shaped who you are today?
BG. The modeling industry isn’t as glamorous as it seems. While it offers incredible opportunities and has many beautiful aspects, rejection is a big part of it. So yes, the industry has definitely shaped me. I’ve learned not to take things personally—after all, you can’t be the perfect fit for every role.
Let’s dive into your experience shooting for Yummyzine 7. It was a bold and beautiful project, and we’d love to hear more about how it felt to be part of it.
AGE. First, I’d like to ask you our trademark question: what does the word 'yummy' mean to you?
BG. The first word that comes to mind is “scrumptious”.
AGE. Shooting at that incredible mansion in Camps Bay looked absolutely stunning. What was it like to be part of such a unique and artistic project?
BG. It was an absolute pleasure. Everything flowed beautifully and the sunset was just teasing us with its majestic vibes.
AGE. Was this your first time doing full nudity in a shoot? How did you feel going into it? Were you nervous, excited, or both?
BG.Yes, for a magazine. I felt very comfortable, and I think that has a lot to do with my massage work, as some of my services are offered in the nude. I’ve done full-nude shoots for my own marketing before, but this was the first time where full frontal nudity would be included. It was an interesting thought because you never really know how it will translate in the final images. But luckily, I felt confident and completely at ease being nude in front of the camera.
AGE. Sasha has a distinctive style when it comes to capturing bold and intimate moments. What was it like working with him, and how did he help you feel comfortable on set?
BG. Sasha is an absolutely incredible human being and a highly skilled photographer. He knows exactly how to put you at ease and approaches his work from a neutral standpoint, creating a space where you feel safe in your vulnerability. Shooting with him was so much fun, and I truly hope we get the chance to work together again.
AGE. Seeing the final images for the first time can be quite a moment. What did you think when you saw yourself in those photos?
BG. I had no idea what to expect beyond the occasional preview shown to me on set. But seeing the final outcome was such a pleasant experience. I loved how I looked in each image—the way they were presented captured artistic nudity beautifully and left me with a warm feeling inside.
AGE. What’s your personal take on nudity in art and fashion? Do you see it as an empowering or challenging part of the creative process?
BG. I believe we are animals, and nudity is a natural part of that. Exploring nudity—whether through fashion and artistic photography, retreats, or other experiences—is a beautiful way to become truly comfortable in your own skin. I think we should all embrace more opportunities that involve nudity and personal growth.
Beyond modelling, your life is just as captivating, especially when we delve into everything else you’re passionate about.
AGE. One of your favorite activities is skating and it feels like such a free-spirited sport. How does it influence your mindset or approach to life?
BG. Skating is an incredibly challenging sport—you fail over and over again until you finally nail the trick. I carry that 'never give up' attitude into both my business ventures and personal relationships.
AGE. Do you think your love for skating has influenced your creativity or energy in your life in general?
BG. 100%. Skating has kept me feeling young and energetic. It's also a form of self-expression and a beautiful outlet for creativity.
AGE. There’s also another side to you that’s just as captivating—your work as a massage therapist. Massage therapy can be such an intimate art. What drew you to it, and what do you enjoy most about it?
BG. To be honest, I never saw myself working in the health and wellness industry. Massage therapy was an additional course offered during my personal training studies, and I just fell in love with it. I love the idea of providing a service that leaves someone feeling better than when they arrived. I also incorporate a lot of breathing and meditation techniques during my massage sessions, which helps me feel even calmer during and after each one.
AGE. One of the most requested forms of massage you offer is the sensual massage. It’s quite daring and requires a lot of confidence, especially when both the therapist and client are naked. How do you approach it, and what’s the most important thing for making clients feel at ease?
BG. Before any sensual booking, I have a video call with a new client to discuss their intentions and expectations for the experience. During this call, we go over my boundaries and how the session will flow. I make sure the client's expectations align with what I offer, and if both of us are comfortable moving forward, we proceed to schedule the session.
AGE. Could you guide us through the process of a sensual massage? How does it typically begin and end, and what are the benefits for those who experience it?
BG. Ideally, you should experience it for yourself, but my website provides enough information to give you a clear idea of how the experience flows. There's also a link to my Instagram content, which offers further insight. Feel free to check it out at www.bartgeldenhuys.com.
AGE. Has this work influenced how you connect with people or how you see yourself?
BG. I've always been able to connect with people on a deep and intimate level, even without sensual massage. But I guess the offering creates a safe and vulnerable space where people feel comfortable opening up about their issues, insecurities, and more. It has a positive influence on how I connect with others. I see myself as an incredibly authentic person, providing a unique and beautiful experience for those I work with.
Now that we’ve explored the more intimate side of your work as a massage therapist, let’s dive into some more personal questions—getting to know the man behind the confidence and charisma. We’re about to get a little more daring, so let’s have some fun with this!
AGE. When it comes to intimacy, what’s your biggest turn-on?
BG. This might seem boring to some, but open and honest communication is probably my biggest turn-on. Realness and authenticity are incredibly attractive to me.
AGE. What do you think is the sexiest thing about you, and do others see it the way you do?
BG. The genuineness of my being. I'm not sure how others perceive it.
AGE. Do you prefer taking the lead, or are you more into being surprised? Or is it all about the right chemistry for you?
BG. I believe there’s a time and place to be dominant and to be submissive. But yes, chemistry is vital, and who doesn’t love a good surprise?
AGE. In your experience, what’s more important—physical attraction or emotional connection? Or is it the perfect mix of both?
BG. Naturally, we all tend to find physical attraction important at first, but that doesn’t last if the person can’t connect with you on a real and emotional level. So, I would say a good balance of both is key.
AGE. What’s your idea of a perfect escape—just you, a partner, and no distractions?
BG. Any form of getaway in nature with my partner, good food, and, well, I’m sure you can guess the rest...
As we near the end of our conversation, let’s shift gears and talk about what’s next for you. You’ve already accomplished so much, but we’re curious—what’s on the horizon for Bart Geldenhuys?
AGE. What do you envision for your life a few years from now—what kind of legacy do you hope to leave behind?
BG. I’m not a huge believer in legacies and all that. Once you pass away, you’re often forgotten rather quickly. So, I focus mainly on being the best version of myself in the present moment. As for future goals, I want to continue building my business, help more people find peace amidst the chaos, and enjoy life every step of the way.
AGE. Is there a particular challenge you’d like to take on or a new skill you’re eager to explore?
BG. I’m definitely looking to further my career in the sensual massage and coaching world. I plan to take on new courses in coaching, work with more couples, and broaden my knowledge in what I’m already doing.
AGE. Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self about life and confidence?
BG. Be gentle with yourself.
Those looking to experience his therapeutic skills firsthand can visit his website at bartgeldenhuys.com. We look forward to seeing where his journey takes him next and can’t wait for what’s to come. Thanks for sharing your story with us, Bart—it’s been an unforgettable conversation!
