TOPshots: interviews with the artists

EDUCATION

TOP SHOTS

INTERVIEWS with the artists

INTERVIEW with Nina Burnett > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I feel that the piece that was chosen was one of the better photographs of the series but as I look at it now with fresher eyes, that aren’t under pressure, I would change a few elements of the photograph. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I took the photographs outside with a white sheet as a back drop using a Canon 1000D. I was elevated on a ladder and used the ladder as a stable surface to capture the images.

I had assistants throw the milk and chalk onto the models and as I had a limited supply of both I needed to do practice shots to make sure timing was perfect. I then edited the images on Photoshop mainly enhancing colours. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I was influenced by the Indian Holi festival as well as tribal dance and themes. I am mainly inspired by culture and movement, photographs that have life and are interesting to look at. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Colourful and chaotic.

> Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I love the media of photography as it shows a real moment that was captured. It expresses emotion as it is seen in the real world and is able to freeze that moment. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Stay on top of your folio work and ask for others opinions on your work as they will see it through different eyes. Keep your folio simple and straight forward and explain absolutely everything that you do to the image. Also write down your ideas and thoughts because the folio will then show the progress and development of your idea and how it evolved to its final form. For your theme, choose something that is very broad so that you will have the ability to change aspects of your idea freely. Keep yours minds and eyes open to ideas and inspiration that is around you. > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

I love the app Pinterest as its full of new and fresh images, I love all

photography books and always find inspiration in them. I am also inspired just by life, watching people and events on the street, hearing things on the news and reading things in the newspaper. I also visit the National Geographic site quite often to see their photographs. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I am currently taking a gap year so have been pursuing photography in my own time and plan on doing so as I enter into my course next year.

Nina BURNETT The surrender from the series The invasion 2012 inkjet print 35.0 x 48.5cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Melbourne Girls Grammar School

INTERVIEW with James Burns > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I’m personally still really excited by my piece, and wouldn’t have changed a thing. The only thing that is interesting to me is the comparison between the work I was creating 6-18 months ago compared to what I am producing now, and the difference in processes and refinement in techniques that I am currently using. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I originally began the process for this piece by waiting very patiently for a foggy yet sunny morning during winter of 2012. I then went for a walk on the perfect morning to the paddocks and forest area opposite by house in Lysterfield, keeping my eye out for the perfect tree that was able to have the sun directly lighting up it’s behind. Allowing me to use my flash to light it’s front, letting me capture the texture of the tree whilst having the sun highlight the surrounding fog. This leads to a very fantasy-like, dynamic image. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I was inspired to take this photo by the movie Avatar, which I have been a huge fan of since its release. The surreal yet realistic aspects of this movie allow a logically imaginative

thought process to guide me on a journey through photography and also inspired another set of final works I created for my VCE Studio Arts. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Fantasy Tree. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I am predominantly a photographer, as it is the medium I both enjoy the most and find myself to be the most capable in. I experiment with both wet and dry photography and will expand my artistic boundaries on the odd occation, however it will always been in some way photographically based. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

It is very simple. Success in this field requires time. Time dedicated to the completion of a cohesive folio and the time dedicated to learning the intricacies of your camera. The more time spent with your equipment the more comfortable and stable the production of your work will be and the quicker the quality of your work will improve.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

For me personally, I cannot go past Instagram. I personally have been influenced greatly by photography on Instagram and spend many hours trawling through the millions of photographs available for public viewing through the application. I’ve found the most skilled and talented photographers on Instagram generally come from Istanbul and Turkey, which is a very intriguing phenomenon. It would be really interesting for someone to be able to explain that to me one day! > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I will never be putting down my camera. My plans for this year are to continue exploring my artistic photography roots by pushing the capabilites of my imagination and my equipment, whilst marketing my services through event photography throughout the year. I plan to explore medium and large format cameras throughout the year also, in order to expand my knowledge and not feel as restricted as I sometimes do with my full-framed 35mm SLR/DSLRs.

James BURNS Fantasy tree 2012 ink-jet print 100x70cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and The Knox School

INTERVIEW with Emily Burton > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

It all rather distant, to be honest I’m not sure that I’ve looked at it since the end of year 12. I’m still quite proud of what I achieved however I think what I suffer from most is being too close to my work. Having a break from it and seeing it in a fresh light for the exhibition will give me a restored appreciation for it. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

At the beginning of the year I purchased a studio set up from eBay that consisted of a backdrop frame, backdrops, reflector and soft boxes.

I used this mini studio to create a delicate lighting that captured the shadows on my models body. Once I had chosen three photos from the shoot I liked I slightly adjusted them in Photoshop by emphasising the light and shadows.

To create the etchings, first I needed to print the photos on transparent paper and go through a series of steps to transfer the print to light sensitive magnesium plates. These plates were then adjusted in a series of chemical stages to make them ‘white light safe’. Once the plates were finished it was simply a matter of devising an ink colour, painting the plate with it and then applying

pressure to the plate when placed on paper. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

Emotion inspires me. I love photos that involve people, whether they tell a story through the facial expression, body language or surrounding environment. I always find photos more inspiring when I can develop an underlying meaning or connect with an emotion simply through viewing the image. Sally Mann, Richard Avedon and Andrzej Dragan are some of my favourite photographers for their emotive statements, innovation and use of surrealistic colour respectively. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Dynamic, emotive. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

Photography is my favourite form of art. As a bit of a science person I love how technical cameras are and how I can manipulate images with such ease. I also feel I can connect with photographic images more than other art forms and having always been so fascinated by cameras it would feel strange to focus on any other medium! As my final pieces display however it’s obvious I am

intrigued by other art forms and am very open to exploring them and trying to increase my skills. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Achieving a high-scoring folio doesn’t come easily and I wouldn’t recommend doing more than one folio subject. It’s important at the beginning of the year to choose a topic that you are really interested in and inspired by, not something you will be bored of in 2 weeks. The topic needs to be open-ended enough to allow you to think of multiple ideas for finals but not so much that you become completely stumped.

The second thing I would advise is creating a timetable of due dates you can realistically achieve and sticking to it. I had to work on my folio every weekend of the year in order to get the amount of work done I wanted to, but staying up to date is the most important thing you can do because in such an aesthetic subject it is really obvious when work is rushed and not up to standard due to lack of time.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

It really depends on what sort of photography you’re looking for. For specific styles or artists I like looking through books at stores or libraries but for just casually browsing images looking for inspiration I like websites like Tumblr and Stumble Upon. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

While I didn’t choose to continue photography at a tertiary level, it is still an important aspect of my life. I didn’t choose to study photography in university as I feel that if it becomes my career I will stress about it and lose some appreciation for it, I will however continue to enjoy it as a hobby.

Emily BURTON three images from the series Pressure 2012 3 intaglio prints 16x22.5cm each VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Methodist Ladies College

INTERVIEW with Michelle Clarke > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I am still proud of my work and feel I explored the many possible paths it could have taken, which is probably why I’m so happy with it. It was my strongest work in relation to my theme, Individual growth, while also taking the longest to complete. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

In my work, I challenge the traditional use of photography by playing with depth, perspective and changing the subject matter into becoming the canvas. I did this by projecting my photographs onto certain friends I thought would suit the role. This required quite a lot of planning and experimenting to know who and what photos I should use, what they should wear and how they should be placed. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

Del Kathryn Barton, Gustav Klimt and Chuck Close are a few of my favourite artists but I mostly get inspired by everything and anything that I can relate to an idea, such as designed posters on the street, collecting postcards or searching images on the internet.

> Can you describe your work in two words?

Life’s reflections. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I knew from the start of year 12 that I really wanted to try photography for at least one of my works. I proceeded to do my first ever photo shoot which I loved. I also wanted the sharp qualities photos can provide while moving away from its traditional use. Photography is considered a new media to me despite being a large part of my life for capturing memories and places. Drawing with soft pastels/ charcoal or pencil is my familiar area however I started using pen, watercolour and dry point etching in year 11 and feel there are so many different media I have yet to learn, which I still feel today. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

The most important tip would be to choose something that you love and that is broad so that you will never feel restricted. Be observant, ideas are everywhere you just need to notice them. Venture away from your comfort zone and I swear you will enjoy and learn a lot more than you

thought you would. > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

The National Gallery of Victoria, The Getty in LA, travel websites, my room, AGideas, artists and designer’s blogs on Tumblr and everything around me. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I’m at ACU doing a Bachelor of Visual Arts and Design which does cover pinhole photography however I would like to study digital photography at some point after this degree. Until then, there is much I can learn in my own time.

Michelle CLARKE three images from the series Imaginative Landscape 2012 3 ink-jet prints 20.3x25.4cm each VCE Art 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Huntingtower School

INTERVIEW with Callisha Gregg-Rowan > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

Mixed feelings……it feels like years ago that I came up with the original idea for this final and the image or ideas I wished to express through the piece. In retrospect I would have done it differently, and no, I can’t say I love my photograph, but I do feel that it reflects what I wished to portray at the time, and in this sense I am happy. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I have always been naturally drawn to the original process behind photography, and have thus created most of my work through the analogue instead of digital photographic process.

This particular image was created through firstly staging the image, choosing a model, the landscape I wished to photograph in etc...

Next the choice of camera was important, I love shooting on the medium format (120) film and work with a beautiful original 1950s Yashica, this creates stunningly clear negatives and works ideally with the type of image I wished to shoot.

Once I have the shot the film I then hand-processed the negatives in the darkroom, chose the negative I wanted to work with further and

began the process of experimenting in the darkroom with enlargers, papers, chemicals and filters. I wished to print this photograph on a larger scale, and was unable to source fiber-based warm tone paper large enough to print my work onto, thus I have made use of various pieces joined together which I believe works very well in the final image. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

My inspiration is endless, but number one is nature and the unique pure, untouched quality that it holds. Spirituality, myth, culture and history also had a great influence on this work. The understanding of identity and self is another inspirational process.

The writing of authors like Clarissa Pinkola Estes and photographers like Sally Mann as well as many others. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Deep, Raw. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

Because I believe it is a fascinating medium, and one that continually inspires me. The process in all its longevity of creating a photographic print is deeply meditative and

reflective and I believe it allows me to express myself in the best possible way I know how. Photography is my core media, sometimes I paint and draw and I often create artworks through words and writing. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

In regards to students doing their folios: be consistent throughout the year, work with a theme or idea that you are deeply passionate about for it will reflect in your art and try to show a strong correlation between the images you create and the ideas that lie behind them. It is increasingly hard to be a photographer in an age where everyone believes they are one, so I believe it is important to discover your unique style, work with your strengths and create what you love! > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

The Internet is a wonderful place to discover new wonderful photographers, it is a treasure trove of beautiful art and quite often one photographer leads you to another, then another. Otherwise exhibitions at MGA and other photographic galleries are wonderful places to

discover amazing photographers. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I will always take photographs, and often have a camera with me; sometimes I am deeply inspired to invest much time and energy into preparing a shoot or taking an amazing photograph and other times I am drawn less to the lens. I am currently not undertaking any formal photographic course, and have no plans to do so in the future, I am of the believe that you cannot be taught how to be an artist, that must come from within oneself.

Callisha GREGG-ROWAN Renascence 2012 four gelatin silver prints 100x122cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Melbourne Rudolf Steiner School

INTERVIEW with Eliza Hill > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I think with the stresses of last year, particularly with my Studio folio I found it difficult to focus on the excitement of being selected for TOPshots! That folio consumed my life a few weeks prior to being due, there was just so much intense work being put into producing my folio and photographs as well as prior preparation, documentation and planning that I think once you’ve finally presented your work, you don’t want to think about it for a few weeks at least! In saying that, I still squealed upon finding out TOPshots chose to display my work, I just think given a few months separation from that devouring folio I have been really able to slow down and appreciate my photograph and the opportunity I have been given. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

Prior to staging my photo shoot I would pour over books and websites that focused on diverse cultures and their traditional lifestyles, in particular how they sit within our modern society. It was important for me to absorb a great understanding of traditional existence and it’s dying place in our modern world in order to convey meanings and messages in my photographs. To my friends joy I

picked the coldest, windiest, rainiest day in winter 2012 to cover them in wet clay and extravagant homemade headpieces, jewellery and make-up.

I situated them in an empty field to convey a sense of isolation, while giving that naturalistic appeal. It was difficult at times to capture that sense of desperation within the faces of my friends, as they are not experienced models, however despite the debilitating cold we got the shots in the end! > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am so inspired by traditional culture. I find it fascinating that in our forever developing modern society these cultures have stood the test time and remain relatively untouched. These cultures are so true to their origin in an everdeveloping world. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Dying. Culture. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I chose photography to create my work, as it is the one I am most comfortable with due to experience behind the lens. I find using a SLR digital camera is a great way to generate imagery, I am able to

manipulate light and colour through settings on the camera and after effects. To my dismay I am not a talented painter or drawer! So I choose to create my art through the use of photography, as I am able to physically create art and scenes as opposed to relying on visualisation to convey meanings and messages.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I was in year 11 doing a year 12 subject when I was selected for TOPshots so I haven’t begun university yet, but next year I plan to study photography at hopefully Melbourne University or RMIT.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

DO NOT LEAVE IT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE! I was guilty of this crime and spent many, many ‘AM nights’ with my folio. I think it is important to have a clear idea of what you are going to produce and how you plan to produce it on the day of shooting also! > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

I don’t have particular spaces I go to in my spare time! I draw inspiration from mainly websites; a favorite of mine is Nirrimi Hakanson Photography. I also love reading Frankie magazine to inspire quirky and different ideas! Sometimes I even draw inspiration from things around me such as the environment and modern culture.

Eliza HILL Culture from the series Culture 2012 ink-jet print 29.7x42cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Upwey High School

INTERVIEW with Virginia Hodgkinson > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I feel as though my hard work has paid off and I am proud to be showing the piece for public viewing so that they can appreciate this as much as I do.

of many photographers particularly Massimo Vitalli for his impressions of everyday beach scenes which portray the love and connection humans have with the coastal environment.

> Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I climbed to the highest crest of the cliffs at Portsea back beach from where the paragliders launch. I proceeded to take many shots of the various paragliders as they soared above me and keeping in mind the composition within the frame I was able to achieve a great sense of balance and contrast against the natural setting. I used an Olympus digital slr camera fitted with a telephoto lens using the auto setting. I finally chose to present this image in a large scale spherical shape so that I could create impact.

> Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I chose to use photography to create my work as the location of the shot was extreme and a camera was the most practical medium to use. I could make the most of the rugged setting using the camera and lens to capture the best the location could offer such as the lighting, colour, spontaneity and movement. I like to use many other mediums to create artworks besides photography. I am interested in mixed media using inks, felt tip pens and acrylic paints. I am also interested in marbling inks and I also like to create 3d works using recycled materials and found objects that are derived from the coastal environment. I also design graphics for surfboards.

> Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am inspired by the coastal environment as I have developed a close affinity with the coast having grown up in the small township of Portsea. I am interested In the relationship humans have with the coastal environment and the various ways they choose to enjoy it and live within it. I am inspired by the works

> Can you describe your work in two words?

Serene and whimsical.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

I suggest that students creating their folios this year are careful and not to fall behind because good folios cannot be whipped up overnight. I would suggest to always be on the lookout for inspiration wherever you may be and to look a your folio as an artwork in its self. I suggest that young photographers take part in competitions when possible as being involved in this way can boost confidence and can sometimes reap rewards and prizes. It is also great to be able to view your work in a gallery setting.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I have accepted a place at Monash University to study Visual Communication and Design but have chosen to defer this year to travel.

I take my camera everywhere and I have created some of my favourite images in my collection during this year. I think I will always love creating images using photography .

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

I have subscribed to many magazines such as Elephant and IDN (International Designers Network) where I can find many inspirational photographers and designers globally. The MGA and NGV galleries are also great places to view photography exhibitions and I also think that individual art galleries such as the Edmund Pearce gallery in Melbourne can inspire.

Ginny HODGKINSON Paraglider 2012 ink-jet print 100x100cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Loreto Mandeville Hall Toorak

INTERVIEW with Andrejs Jaudzems > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I am still happy with this piece, and I look forward to being able to return to the Great Ocean Road to do more photography in the area. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

This piece was captured using a long exposure during very early dawn when the light was still dim. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am inspired by light and movement, which was the theme for my photography folio. Both of these are critical elements in this piece.

I particularly enjoy pushing the capability of my camera to its limits in order to transform what would be a realistic scene into something surreal and individual. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Peaceful, surreal. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I am fascinated by the technical aspects of the camera, thus I limit my creation of art to just photography.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

My biggest tip is to plan well at the start of the year so that you have clear direction. It is also really important to keep up to date with folio production throughout the year. > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

My favourite spaces are the Redbubble website and Flickr. I visit them constantly. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I am currently completing Year 12, so unfortunately I only have limited time for photography at the moment. However I plan to travel overseas next year, and will definitely be bringing my camera with me.

Andrejs JAUDZEMS Great Ocean Road from the series Seascapes 2012 ink-jet print 44x54cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Upwey High School

INTERVIEW with Lauren Morgan > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I still love the piece that was selected, I love the colours and it reminds me of the things that you can create. It usually hangs on my own wall at home. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I created my work by setting up a little studio, with a tray of water down the bottom and a bottle dripping into the tray. I then tried to capture the water drip as it was falling into the tray to capture it in mid-air in the circular form. The colours came from a piece of paper behind behind the tray that light was reflected off and then enhanced on the computer. The lines were drawn over the top of the image with a white pen to emphasise shadows and the drip. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I was inspired a lot by Frans Lanting as his photography was very vibrant in colour, which i really liked. I was also inspired by the whole idea of water and the way it is so powerful in so many ways and we depend on it, but it has this serenity surrounding it as well, which is why I focused on water for my pieces.

I was influenced a lot by my parents

as they are my main critics on whether my artworks were up to scratch. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Colourful and serene. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I chose photography because it’s what i really enjoy you doing, and I thought it was the best way to capture my idea of motion and present water in the most effective way. I usually stick with photography the main media I create artworks with, as it is what I think I’m best at and I really enjoy working with a camera.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

Youtube is a really good one for finding different photo ideas, and how to do it. Also looking in the photo sections in Dymocks or other bookstores as they have a wide range and gives you specific artists to research. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I plan on continuing in my own time as a hobby and maybe next year follow it up as a tertiary course.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

If you are doing photography, take 1000 pictures, because then hopefully there will be atleast one brilliant one. I think I took about 2000 to find the three I used for this piece. And don’t leave all the cutting and pasting and annotating to the last minute, it takes a lot longer than you think.

Lauren MORGAN from the series Photo and line 2012 3 ink-jet prints, white pen 23.5x43.4cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Glen Waverley Secondary College

INTERVIEW with Belinda Neilson > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

The photograph that was selected for TOPshots was never my favourite.

I didn’t really notice the power that the artwork had until I shared it with other people. After six months I think I can appreciate this photograph more. It becomes an expression of creativity and humanity, rather than an assessment piece on which my grade was relying. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

A lot of this artwork began as a happy accident. My original concept was to allow the model to be influenced by the environment, so the spread of the hair caused by the wind and reflected light dancing across the face were all unplanned.

Digitally, the image was converted to black and white and hand-colouring was used to to bring life into the face. An artistic brush was used with the burn tool to create directional line work. From there, the image was printed onto textured fine art paper and pencil rendering was used to exaggerate the line of the hair and the sketch style background.

Finally the surrounds of the image were ripped along the edge to give a frayed ephemeral aesthetic. A piece of mount board was cut to size

which matched the cream coloured paper. Drawing pins were added to complete the fragile and temporary atmosphere. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I’m influenced by everything I see and do, really. I’m particularly inspired by Nadav Kander and his quirky style of photography. But I try not to limit myself to singular influences. I’m often inspired by any artist who creates a distinctive style and uses somewhat unconventional methods of creating art. I’m always inspired by the unique, be that typography, design, fashion, words, artist, junk, etc... > Can you describe your work in two words?

No. It’s as simple as that, I just can’t.

It’s too subjective. My work describes itself in one image, and it speaks a million different languages. Words can not stand up to visual language. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

Studio Arts Photography requires something in the photographic field, however, photography gives an instant solid image to work with. It captures time and emotion almost instantaneously and it’s a fantastic tool to use. Clearly from this artwork

I don’t just stick to photographic means. I work with whatever I can get my hands on: paint, pastel, pencil, wood, marker, pen, you name it. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Just try everything. Don’t be scared to try something you’ve never done before. If you find out you love something too late into the year, you may not have enough time to perfect it (like me and studio lights). And if it all goes terribly wrong, don’t stress, you still have several pages of your visual diary.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I’m currently undergoing a Bachelor of Design Arts with a major in Visual Art and a minor of Photo Media.

So yes, It’s very ingrained in my life.

I’m doing lots of photography in my own time and I also do volunteer photography at my local theatre company. My camera is my good friend.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

One of my favourite places to find awesome inspirational photography is in my CD collection. The music you like coincides with the style and aesthetic you enjoy. Read the case and find out who is responsible for your favourite album cover. The next best place to find photography I find is a library. It opens up areas you may not have thought of and will definitely have something that will surprise and delight.

Belinda NEILSON Wayward breeze 2012 ink-jet print, pencil 31.5x38cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Monbulk College

INTERVIEW with Liam O’Bree > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

It’s been pretty interesting, considering that you spend so much time during year 12 (just) obsessing over the piece trying to make it perfect. Now reflecting, I wish I took some time to just not think about the work and focused on something else because then, when I finally came back to it, I would be able to see it through different eyes and really be able to see if this is what I envisioned from the start.

What I mean is when I was working on the piece I never stopped thinking about it, I became consumed which was to be expected within such a small timeframe to finish the work. Now when I look back I am still happy with the final product, don’t get me wrong – it’s as I had envisioned it, however I wished I could have stopped for even a moment to clear my mind and wash my eyes just so I could see it like how I see it now. As a photographer you’re always developing your skills.

Since the initial photo shoot and editing I’ve developed a new and even stronger skill set. If I had known then what I know now I would have enhanced the piece with a few final touches.

> Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I don’t want to give all my secrets away, only joking. The best way to explain is to go back the very beginning and go from there. As all Studio Arts students do, you have your ‘idea’ or theme for the year that you wish to work on, mine was Eras and Styles don’t ask me why that because I honestly couldn’t tell you its just what came out. I discovered that this concept was broad enough that I could explore all these different styles and ideas that I had and still have it all link back to the folio. I’m someone who needs strong inspiration and direction of where I’m going. I spent around a solid month researching artists and their works, just looking at the work through my eyes I began to examine the images for technical details as well as creativity. I guess through this inspiration and research, exploring the possibilities, that’s how the Untitled 2012 series came to be.

I consider myself to be a more ‘technical photographer’. As I said earlier, through examining the images I investigated the way on which the photographer had created the piece: lighting, f-stops, composition. Once I had a clear understanding of the method, my aim was to ‘recreate’ their ways or adapt my own methods of achieving the results. The biggest technical

feat that I found was the projection onto the body. Classes were spent experimenting with anything that projected light and shadow: overhead projectors, data projectors, torches, candles, and translucent paper, basically anything I could get my hands on.

Once I had settled on a method: data projection, I then needed to find the right patterns to project. I tried creating my own, even asking friends whose drawing skills surpassed mine own to help. In the end I had compiled a library of around 15 images to project onto my model.

Casting was very difficult. Casting can be really difficult. So many people told me just grab your friends or family to do it, its quick and easy. I encourage young students to look a little further for casting.

Friends of friends are an excellent starting point. I asked around and eventually found the right person for my concept. Finding the right model brought its own challenges; especially with the nature of my shoot. As a photographer, I need to establish a professional working relationship with the model. This allows them to become relaxed and believe me it makes for a much better shoot. Cracking a few jokes, being well prepared was the key to a successful shoot. A tip I find that works is to have music playing

in the background. I find it helps relax everyone and sets the mood for the shoot and can assist the model in performing a certain way, with the added bonus of removing all awkward silences while you’re fiddling with the cameras or lighting.

Directing a shoot is easy when you’ve done your homework. I just had an idea and direction of what I needed and during the entire shoot I just kept checking the images and saying to myself ‘Is this what I need?’ and if not ‘What do I need to do to get it?’.

Planning is king with photography.

All my gear was booked and packed ready to go days before the shoot.

Everything and anything I thought I could possibly need was packed and I was ready to fire away the second my model was ready. The shoot was the easy part. Post-production was easy for me. I’m not an expert but I’m pretty handy with Photoshop so that made life a lot easier for editing. I spent days attached to the computer editing away, ‘mucking around’ with the software, blending and burning until I had the results I wanted. Trial and error with a bit of time management is what got me through the entire process. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

My number one influence for the Untitled 2012 series is none other

INTERVIEW with Liam O’Bree (...cont’d) than Mr. Bill Henson. His work has deep meaning and passion and evokes conversations that he can frame through his work and that itself inspires me. Henson is one of the best technical photographers I have seen and his ability to photograph beautifully can only be matched by his creativity and direction.

I’ve been incredibly lucky; when I was 7 years old my parents brought me a digital camera for Christmas so I’ve always had a passion for photography. I have had the privilege of working with some of Melbourne’s best editorial photographers at The Age that have taught me so much. If you ever get to meet someone who is an expert at something you are passionate about, ask as many questions as you can, annoy the hell out of them with questions, because you’ll be surprised at their passion, which in most cases will cause them to speak for hours about the subject. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Thought Provoking. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

In year 12 you have to play to your strengths, my strength was/is

photography. I chose this medium because photography captures just one moment. One millisecond of time, yet can express so much. Its an art form that is ‘true to life’ and at the same time can be manipulated and adjusted to the impossible or fantasy. Last year I worked solely with photography but now I have had the time to explore other forms and keeping in the field of photography I am venturing into videography. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Where do I even begin! Young photographers: learn the traditional ways of photography, study SLR cameras and film, experiment with darkrooms. Even if you don’t use it you will have the best understanding of photography. Much of what I can do now in camera and in Photoshop, I discovered through darkroom experimenting and research. There is method to the madness: what was before Photoshop and digital cameras? Technology didn’t reinvent the wheel: it just merely used it and advanced it. Shoot anything and everything you can! Get experience shooting all forms of photography, volunteer and keep informed.

Studio Arts students: time management! If you can manage

your time you will get through the year with outstanding results. Listen to your teachers and peers: you don’t have to do what they suggest but just listen and maybe something they say might stick.

In regards to listening to your teachers: what they might say, you might not agree with but sometimes you just need to take what they’ve said on board because at the end of the day they are the ones who are marking your folio. > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

The Internet is a great starting point. I use the word ‘starting point’ because if you have absolutely no idea about ideas or need to stimulate the creative senses then yes use the Internet, get the ball rolling but explore physical spaces. Nothing beats seeing something live and inperson. We are pretty lucky here in Melbourne that there are hundreds of galleries around the place and a lot of them are free, an added bonus.

But even if galleries aren’t your thing cafes, bars and even nightclubs have some extraordinary artwork that should be seen. Everywhere is inspiration; it just depends on whose eyes are looking at it.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

Currently I am working full time in one of my dream career paths, film and television so I make sure that I am always surrounding myself with inspiration. Photography has been instrumental in what I do now even if its not technically photography.

I still run my own photography business, which is fantastic, allowing me to continue my passion in my own time. Photography is not just something you do in high school if you have the motivation and drive for something then you do everything in your power to continue it.

Liam O’BREE Untitled #1 from the series Untitled 2012 inkjet print 47x64.5cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Balwyn High School

INTERVIEW with Jade Pearson > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I’m very proud of this piece as it depicts a self reflection of a period in my life. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

I created the work by first taking a roll of 20 photographs and developed the film in the darkroom. From the contact print, I picked the two photographs I liked the best and that captured my theme of depression by the emotion on the face, lighting etc... Once I decided which two images worked the best I developed them into 8x10in prints by testing for the right shutter speed, aperture and filter required. Finally I then ripped the two photographs in half and placed one side of the first image and the opposite side of the second image next to each other to create the distorted look of my face. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am inspired by capturing real life emotion ie. what a person is thinking, feeling etc... and wanting my photographs to say so many things to the viewer such that they are overwhelmed with emotion.

I am influenced by Käthe Kollwitz and Romy Campe.

> Can you describe your work in two words?

Haunting depression. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I fell in love with photography in Year 10 elective Art and since then I have had a passion for taking photos.

I chose photography as I wanted to challenge myself by finding different ways to represent my themes by focusing on this media and adding other mediums to my artwork. I do use other media to create artworks but photography is my passion and my main media. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Find what you‘re most passionate about and focus on that as your theme. Stay up to date with your folio work and don’t put it off so that it builds up. If you get too far behind with the annotating and rush it at the end, the attention to detail will be lost. If you stay on top of your artwork and folio, you will be less stressed at the end and be total happy with what you have produced.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

My favourite spaces for finding inspirational photography are from books, galleries (small and big), research from websites and most importantly just walking around Melbourne streets. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I am currently at university studying Nursing so my passion for photography is restricted to my private time time but once I finish university I hope to focus on photography more as a possible career path in conjunction with Nursing.

Jade PEARSON Depression #2 from the series Depression 2012 two gelatin silver prints, glue, board 29.7x21cm VCE Art 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Beaconhills College, Pakenham Campus

INTERVIEW with Sarah Ramsden > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I am so proud of my work that I created, it shows that determination and hard work really does pay off in the end. I am very excited to have my work displayed for others to view. I am still happy with the final result of my work and wouldn’t really do anything to change it. Seeing the final images and looking back on all the work that was involved is a very rewarding feeling, it also makes me grateful that I didn’t just settle, I kept experimenting with different ideas and techniques until I was completely satisfied with the pieces.

> Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am very inspired by the incredible photographer Annie Leibovitz. Her work seems to be set in different worlds, with rich colours and bold subjects. I am inspired by how Leibovitz produces work that is more often than not, a window into a new fantastic universe. Her consideration and appreciation for creating characters for models and detailed sets truly motivates me to higher the standards of my work.

> Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

There were many different processes during the development of my work.

I had to considered what costumes would be the most appropriate and would represent the particular year best. I took time to carefully design each set to successfully portray each era using a number of different details. Once I had captured the images, I used Photoshop to further enhance them and add details I couldn’t before. By manipulating the images I believe I added new elements to the photographs which not only made them more aesthetically pleasing but also created a new layer for a story.

> Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I chose to use photography because I believe if you can capture a precise moment of time, where everything works, it can be incredibly strong.

I also felt that my portrayal of this particular theme would be best represented through photographs.

Photography is my first choice when producing art, but occasionally I enjoy painting and drawing, although to say I’m good at it is something else...

> Can you describe your work in two words?

I would say my work is considerate and explorative.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

My biggest advice is to plan ahead!

Leaving things to the last minute when organising for a shoot can be very chaotic and often result in not getting the look that you originally wanted. Something that I learned during VCE was to ask reliable people to model for you, having someone cancel on you at the last minute is a nightmare. Goodluck and don’t be afraid to push yourself! > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I am continuing photography this year doing freelance work as well as personal projects for my folio.

Sarah RAMSDEN 1910 2012 inkjet print 29x41cm VCE Media 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Highvale Secondary College

INTERVIEW with Lucy Simpson > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

Six months later and I’m still really proud! This was one of my favourite finals, I found it very interesting and it really reflected my folio theme. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

The first step of creating my work was getting the heart! I went to my local butcher and bought a heart of a sheep. It was about the size of my hand, and to be honest it grossed me out a little when I touched it.

However I still found it amazing to look at, all the detail! So I set up my camera and took a few shots of the heart. Meanwhile my dad, a keen gardener, was cutting some rhubarb from his garden. The leaves we laid out on the grass and I took a photo of them all overlapping one another.

I took the photo of the heart and the photo of the leaves into Photoshop and had a play around with the levels and transparency and after a few goes, this is what I got! > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

My initial inspiration was from my passion for biology and my interest in the human body and how it functions. I appreciate how amazing our bodies are, and what they do to keep us healthy and living. I was

thrilled to combine my passion for anatomy and art together, so obviously. I am inspired by everyday things, but also inspired by artists.

William Blake, James Gleeson, El Greco, and Gregory Crewdson to name a few! > Can you describe your work in two words?

Intriguing ticker. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I chose photography because I am so passionate about it and I love how I could take a photo of a heart, something so surreal to see, and have it truly realistic because it is in a photo. Through photography I was able to make something so surreal, real. The other medium I used other than photography to produce works was oil paints.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

I am open to be inspired by photography anywhere, from someone’s phone, to books, to galleries. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I will always be passionate about photography, my camera being one of my favourite accessories. I am going travelling this year and can’t wait to be inspired by many different things I see, and get some great photos on the way.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

My main advice would be to not over think what you’re doing. To follow your instinct and to keep on remembering that you’re making art, there is no right or wrong.

Lucy SIMPSON Autumn heart 2012 ink-jet print 29.7x42cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and St. Leonards College

INTERVIEW with Claire Skerman > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I still feel honoured to have been selected for the exhibition of TOPshots and am extremely proud of my work, the chosen piece and what it represents. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

My work was developed by exploring the elements and principles of photography in order to effectively portray the meaning. I examined camera angles, depth of field, composition, focus and colour most critically in my work to best create the desired impact. By working closely with my own horse, using the trust we have developed over time, I was able to take images from angles never seen before that realistically display our true connection. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am inspired by the unpredictable yet beautiful nature of the horse itself. My personal journey with my own young horse has influenced me to attempt to capture not only the strength and beauty of the horse but the incredible intimacy that develops between a rider and his horse. I am also inspired by the work of renowned equine photographers such as Glenn Hunt.

> Can you describe your work in two words?

Innovative and personal. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I chose photography as the medium for my work as I believe it best captures the two main elements I was trying to portray; adrenalin and intimacy. I believe no other medium would have been as effective in conveying the true unpredictable, yet captivating, character of the horse.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I am continuing my interest in photography (particularly equine photography) this year in my own time. I hope to one day be known as an equine photographer who can create a special image with an artistic edge not offered elsewhere.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Annotation is key!! Write down every tiny detail that makes your image both good and/or bad and be critical of the little things in order to improve your photos and clearly portray the meaning of your work. > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

I often browse Google Images for ideas and inspiration. The galleries of favourite photographers are also a great space for brainstorming.

Claire SKERMAN Untitled from the series Equus Callabus 2012 ink-jet print 42x29.7cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Wheelers Hill Secondary College

INTERVIEW with Danielle Ventura > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I still love the aesthetic of the photograph and feel extremely proud of myself whenever I view it, as I never thought it would be in an exhibition! > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

The process was actually quite simple. Firstly, I shot my original photos on black and white film and then processed the film myself.

After that had been done, I selected my favourite shots from the shoot and began developing them in the darkroom. To achieve the dripping effect on the photograph, I simply dipped a paintbrush in developer and painted on the photo paper in the pattern shown, instead of simply immersing it completely in the developer. To preserve the original silver gelatin print, I was encouraged to scan the image and reprint it as an ink-jet print, which is what I ended up doing! > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am mainly influenced by a wide variety of vintage photographers as I love the aesthetic of film photography in general. I am also constantly inspired by the things that surround me in everyday life.

Some of my main influences for my year 12 folio were Brassaï, Jacques Henri Lartigue, Narelle Autio, Kay Bell Reynal, and Nan Goldin. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Unique and innovative. > Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

The main focus of Studio Art at my school was photography, however, I still would’ve chosen to work with this medium as I have had a growing passion for it for a very long time.

My main passion is photography, although since studying Visual Arts at university, I have started to produce more artworks using acrylic paint and graphite pencil. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

One thing I would strongly suggest is to stay on top of your folio work and not leave it to the last minute.

Year 12 is stressful enough, so sort out your time and always make room for some folio work at least every night. You’ll realise the benefits of this on the week it’s due! I would also encourage students to give film photography a try. It’s a beautiful

medium and easy to get the hang of.

Don’t be afraid to use it! > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

I find inspiration in various places, but I am constantly coming across new things on the blogging website Tumblr. > Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

Yes, I am currently completing a double degree of Secondary Teaching/Arts, where I am majoring in Photography and Visual Art. I also continue to take my own photos, which aren’t part of my assignments, whenever I get the chance.

Danielle VENTURA Water from the series The comfort 2012 ink-jet print 29.7x21cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College

INTERVIEW with Bethany Walravens > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

Six months!? Wow so much time has passed! Looking at my work now I am so much more proud of it then straight after I finished it. I think this has come from the fact that at the time I wanted every little detail to be perfect and now that I’ve separated myself from the process I can really be please with the work I created and see it as a whole, rather then tiny aspect I could’ve done better. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

My process was an unusual one full of accidental processes that I discovered through experimenting.

I started by printing three A3 transparencies, with a different face on each. I then simply used some tape to stick the three in position – the order you can see them in my final piece. I then used an open flame to melt the photos together.

Once I’d melted the photos to a point I was happy with, I used both my fingers and tissues to wipe majority of the Ash off the back of the transparencies. My final steps were placing the burnt transparencies on a Light Box and taking photos of them before using Photoshop to get a clean white around the main image.

> Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

Gregory Crewdson and his photographic style heavily inspire a lot of my work. I love the way Crewdson presents his images, in a larger then life format which allows you to see every detail clearly and become intimately involved with his pieces. Another inspiration I draw from is the people around me. Portraiture is my love when it comes to photography, so a lot of my inspiration comes from the mannerisms and actions of others and how humans express emotion.

My biggest love is being able to display what we witness from others in the form of a photograph.

non-existent, so I thought it would be safe to stick with what I knew.

> Can you describe your work in two words?

Graceful Ageing.

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

DO NOT LEAVE IT UNTIL THE LAST MINUTE! Being one of the select few people gifted with absolutely NO organization I’m not going to lie I left a lot of my work until shortly before the due date. Whilst I somehow managed to put together four finals and a folio, I know myself that I would’ve been happier had I spent longer getting my pieces to where I wanted them to be earlier and then working extremely hard on my folio in the final few weeks. So that would be my biggest tip, pace yourself and everything will be a lot easier.

> Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

My fondness of photography stems from the fascination of how easily a photograph can be taken, manipulated and displayed in such a wide range of ways in order to convey messages to a large audience.

With photography no two photos are ever the same and it’s this freedom that inspires me to present my pieces in this medium. Also my woodwork and drawing skills are pretty much

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

My favourite art space isn’t necessarily a gallery but a bookshop in Sorrento called Antipodes. They constantly have art – mostly photography – displayed and it’s such a great way to see local photography on display.

Most local cafes and bookshops will have art that you wouldn’t get to see in normal gallery spaces, which allows you to open up to another area of photography.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

Still being in year 12 this year I have been keeping up photography in my own time as a hobby. It’s my hope next year to continue photography and media at university.

Bethany WALRAVENS Vieillissement (Aging) 2012 ink-jet print 102x72cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Toorak College Mount Eliza

INTERVIEW with Tess Wardrop > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

During the IB art course we were challenged and motivated to produce multiple pieces. Six months later, without the same motivation or access to materials I look back at this opportunity and my pieces with pride and gratitude. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

The original images came from old family photos that I sourced from my nana and other family members.

I then composed one image from multiple photos using photoshop. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I watched a documentary last year on ABC, or maybe SBS, called Immigration nation. I found it really interesting, the concept of our dynamic national identity inspired me to explore the role heritage has on identity. I was inspired by the colour and movement of early 20th century artistic styles, as well as contemporary artists such as Jackson Rowe. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Fragmented Lady.

> Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

Initially, I created this photo with the intention of producing an oil painting, but I was pleased with the intensity and depth that the digital image allowed. My preferred method was oil painting, I loved seeing how many different colours I could use in an image without it becoming a huge mess. Although photography and Photoshop allowed me to produce a mysterious reconstruction of family photos, I really enjoy the results of human mistakes and trial and error in paintings.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

This year I deferred university to go travelling, I’m not sure if I will formally study art or photography but I hope I find opportunities to continue with it somewhere along the way!

> Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Enjoy it! Year 12 Art was heaps of fun, its great to see what you can produce. I’ve always found photos which show us a common scene, or everyday object in a different or unusual way, to be really interesting. > What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

As well as local galleries, I still like to look through family albums for inspiring photography.

Tess WARDROP Les yeux 2012 ink-jet print 75x56cm IB Visual Arts HL reproduction courtesy of the artist and St. Leonards College

INTERVIEW with Sarah White > It has been six months since you finished your folio! How do you feel about the piece selected for TOPshots now?

I still love my work, I created eight pieces of this particular style of a circular panorama and love each one of them. Within these eight photos all of them include places that make up my surrounding world. > Can you tell us a little more about how you created your work?

To create my work it was highly constructed on Photoshop. Through manipulation of a number of different photos put together to make a panorama, I then constructed a circular panorama from this, once again using Photoshop to do so. > Who or what are you influenced by? What inspires you?

I am inspired by a number of Australian and International landscape photographers including Ansel Adams and another photographer Max Dupain who captured the Australian way of life. > Can you describe your work in two words?

Mind playing.

> Why did you choose to use photography to create your work?

Do you create artworks with other media as well or only photography?

I only created my artwork with photography, so I believe this format best depicts the variety of different elements in the piece. > Do you have any tips for upcoming young photographers? Or for students doing their final folios this year? Things to do, or even things not to do?

Things to do – stay on top of your folio, always record your process, find lots of different and interesting things that inspire you.

Things not to do – leave things until the last minute.

> Are you planning on continuing photography this year, either at tertiary level or in your own time?

I am currently studying a marketing degree and would love to use some of my photographs in the near future however at this stage I am just continuing taking photos in my own time.

> What are your favourite spaces (book/website/gallery etc...) for discovering great, inspirational photography?

There are many places where I discover the most incredible photographs. I absolutely love a photographer from Bondi, which he goes under the name of Aquabumps.

I also love a number of photographers on Instagram, on Instagram I follow and view the most exciting photos which always inspire me to continue to take my own photos. Furthermore, I also view photos on different blogs of inspiring photographs.

Sarah WHITE The Yarra River from the series My surrounding world 2012 ink-jet print 52x52cm VCE Studio Arts 3&4 reproduction courtesy of the artist and Loreto Mandeville Hall Toorak

EDUCATION

TOP SHOTS

Monash Gallery of Art: the home of Australian photography www.mga.org.au © Monash Gallery of Art and artists 2013 Interviews conducted with artists via email in May and June 2013 Editor: Stephanie Richter, Education & Public Programs Coordinator, MGA The TOPshots exhibition is on display at Monash Gallery of Art from 5 July–11 August 2013