We See It Magazine
{Vol. 1}
We See It Welcome Hello all, welcome and thank you for checking out We See It | Vol. 1. Here at We See It headquarters, we are the connoisseurs of talent spotting and are so excited to share the outstanding talent we have discovered, all rounded up and presented to you in pretty package this issue. We believe that behind every Artist and Creative, there is a tale to tell, an individual life being led, an eager heart and a predicatively fascinating creative process. As well as seeing and appreciating their work and skills, we want to bring you a little closer to these talented beings by introducing you to them and their world of work. We also think that every artistically fruitful individual should have the chance to showcase their work to the world and for them to be truly appreciated. We See It strive to bring you the brightest independent Artists from around the world, and compact them and their work into one totally tasty piece of reading. We hope you see the beauty & talent, because We See It ! and you enjoy Vol. 1 as much as we enjoyed making it. x WSI
Contents + Contributors 06
Evita Weed : Photographer
16
Rebekah Campbell : Photographer
30
In the shadow of your heart : Editorial by Ivana Patarcic
42
Do you Lookbook?? : Fashion Blogging
50
Plastique* : Jewlery
58
Kat Banay : Photographer
72
Luke Takes Photos : Photographer
84
Anna Dray : Fashion Illustrator
94
Afternoon Sister : Editorial by Mariana Quevedo
104
Sarah Ann Loreth : Photographer
116
Fiona Mangan : Milliner
126
Johannes Schimpfhauser : Photographer
140
Emma Wiesenekker : Illustrator
152
Artist Spotlight : Michael Kuiri
156
Notes from We See It
Cover Image : Evita Weed
Evita Weed It is her view of the world around her, it is a huge desert of asphalt from which she tries to flee, preserving innocence in a society lacking it.
E
vita Weed” (Eva M ª González López) is a 24 year old spanish photographer, Although born in the digital age, Evita Weed, focuses primarily on film. Her images are characterized by soft tones, subtle, small imperfections and well-studied use of light. WSI: Tell us a little about yourself EW: Hello my name is Eva, but I’m better known as internet EvitaWeed, I consider myself a normal girl, who has a huge passion for photography, and my pictures I just want to convey in a Onirica as is my day to day, trying to escape this huge and lonely desert of asphalt is city preserved my innocence in a society devoid of that quality is the inevitable resistance by the loss of innocence. There are thousands of times in life and some deserve to be enshrined ... .... Feelings and images ... ... ... ... ... WSI: How did your journey into photography start? EW: Since childhood I have always liked photography cameras, Polaroids, slides and a passion that comes from years ago, I still remember the day I had my first photo camera was very bad but I liked the pictures as it came and the effect he had, in fact I still use the camera sometimes. Then in adolescence I studied photography, and now I have been taking pictures, presentations, interviews in magazines, websites, and now I’m going great. WSI: Your an analog girl in a digital world, why do you use and love film? EW: It’s a complicated question, the truth is that not rule out the digital photography, moreover, offers many possibilities when shooting but the magic that follows the film has no comparison with a chip WSI: Whats been your greatest photography achievement so far? EW: I do not care about achievements, I like to photograph every time I try to make it special and magical, and reach people I’m content, but I recognize that the diffusion of my pictures in magazines this year has been enormous, and it’s something what did not, and helps me stay in it and have more ideas and a better vision of photography, thanks to all those people who believed in me I managed to grow as a photographer and as a person.
“My work is mainly based on self-portraits, but I am very passionate about the world of landscape photography, all truth, all you would not do serious shooting war.�
WSI: Using Flickr, DeviantArt, Facebook, tumblr etc, has using social networks helped you as an artist? Why/How? EW: Thanks to these web pages, you may contact people who have the same hobby and interests as you, even on the other side of the world. This is something that if not for internet would be impossible and therefore is a very important time to work and give your job to know everyone. Flickr for example, where I gain most support for my page I had in my short career as a photographer, and where I learned most of my flickr-friends. I recommend everyone used this kind of pages are very enriching. WSI: Where do you see yourself and your working going in the future? EW: Oh, I don’t know. I would love engage in photography, but in a society where anyone can have a camera and take pictures, that is quite complicated. I am content to know people like my work even if I have to work in another profession in order to eat. I sure will not stop taking pictures ever, because it is something that I love. WSI: What image of yours, so far is your favourite? Why? EW: This image I did recently, just the change of seasons, is my favourite because it shows the union between my life and nature, how to find peace in corners and merge it with my oniric life and get transmitted over the still image. WSI: Do you have advice for any newbies who may be thinking of getting into photography? EW: My advice is do not copy ideas, or carried away by fads, but try to create your own style. WSI: Who/ what inspires you? EW: I’m inspired every day, by my life, my problems, my favourite places & my boyfriend… My work especially contains lots of self-portraits; I like going out to my favourite spots with my tripod and taking photos of myself, either alone or with my partner, just to show that it’s possible to capture each and every moment and make it special. There’s always a touch of melancholy in my pictures, because I love analogue cameras and with them I’ll always get a graininess that imbues every shot, as a product of the light. My pictures are also characterized by soft, subtle shades, small imperfections and an incredibly studied use of light. Natural light is the key theme of the collection. My style is totally recognizable and distinctive. It’s so easy to let yourself be transported away and immersed in this imaginary world of sublime landscapes, dynamic skies, and sensations hidden away in the most remote corners imaginable.
Visit Eva
www.flickr.com/photos/evitaweed/ www.evitaweed.tumblr.com/ www.evitaweed.carbonmade.com/ www. cargocollective.com/EvitaWeed
Rebekah Campbell WSI: Tell us about yourself Rebekah. RC: A camera-lover who captures moments to never forget, who loves to travel, and who tries her best to glorify her Creator in everything she does. WSI: How did your journey into photography start? RC: My father has been a photographer since his twenties and work in a jewish photo studio, so I have grown up with cameras in my face since my baby years. Around the age of 15, I picked up one of his Nikons and started playing around with it. It began something that will never stop. I was entranced with making something out of light and tones and colors. I picked up the camera and then delved into flickr, got connected, and found so much. WSI: Your a bit of a self portrait artist, why do you like to do self portraits? RC: I like portraying myself in something solid, something that will forever be painted in time. Simply put, it lets me freeze time in a point in my life, and remember it forever. It’s a way for me to express myself as an artist, and let others see a bit of myself without letting them all the way in. WSI: Who/ what inspires you? RC: Music, other artists out there on the internet, editorials in magazines, nature, and foreign films. Professionals that I love are: Henri Cartier Bresson, Soffia Copolla, and Tim Walker (off the top of my head, there’s a million others). WSI: What (if anything) have you learned about yourself through photography? RC: I’ve learned that I am a complicated human being. And a lot of the time it’s quite hard to get my point across, but then at other times, it’s so simple. Every vein, bruise, scratch, indent, and sleep mark are in the photo and they remind me of who I am. Photography is the validity that gives me reason to get lost in a moment of seeing. It’s a renaissance of personal memory.
“This one came out exactly how I wanted it to, and even more so with some light leaks. I love the emotion in it and the pretty colors.“
WSI: Whats been your greatest photography achievement so far? RC: It’s hard to pinpoint one specific acheivement, but being featured in several online magazines has been fantastic! I can’t believe that some people actually are interested in my work. And as for me as an artist, I feel accomplishment when what I want to happen in a photo, happens. It’s like I look at the camera or the film scan, and I say in my head, “YES. THIS IS IT.” It’s so fulfilling. WSI: Using Flickr, DeviantArt, Facebook, tumblr etc, has using social networks helped you as an artist? Why/How? RC: Oh my, yes. It’s really how I started out branching myself out there, and finding inspiration along the way. I’ve learned so much about what to do and not do, and I find myself growing. In some ways, I see the downfall of not having ideas from my own head 24/7, but as they always say, “Nothing is ever inspired.” I think it helps so much more than it hurts. WSI: What are your tools of the trade? Camera, Lens, editing? RC: I use a Nikon D2H (old but it does what I need it to do). Mainly use my Nikkor 50 mm f1.8 lens, but I also have a Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 and a 12-24mm f/4. Pentax K1000 with a 50 mm f2 and a Tamron 80-210mm f/4 lens. WSI: You do such wonderful self portraits Rebekah, Why do you think people are so drawn to self portraits? RC: Self portraits are so personal that others are drawn in in more ways that just one to see a part of some other human being like themselves. Everyone has emotions and things that tear at their hearts, everyone laughs and cries, and everyone goes through life-changing moments that create you to be who you are today. When photos capture these moments, they are impossible to not draw interest and feelings out of people. WSI: Where do you see yourself and your work going in the future? RC: I am planning to attend the Savannah College of Art and Design this fall (2011) and then from there I will see what happens. I would love to work for a magazine, or start my own buisness if that is at all plausible later on in my life. WSI: Finally, do you have advice for any newbies who may be thinking of getting into photography? RC: The first year or so that you’re shooting and feeling inspired, there’s this voice inside you that says, “What you’re making isn’t so good -- it’s not that great.” But, you have a taste for something amazing and once you conquer that taste and find out how to get it, your work will be full-force spectacular. You just have to get through that phase, and keep working. Shooting constantly and perusing beautiful works.
Visit Rebekah www.bekahkallye.tumblr.com www.rebekahcampbell.blogspot.com/ www.www.flickr.com/photos/campbell_kallye21/ www.bekahcamp.carbonmade.com/
In the shadow of your heart
Photography : Ivana Patarcic Styling & construction : Aislinn Ellen Lawlor Make up : Hannah Smyth | Hair : Terence Murphy Model : Anouska Proetta Brandon [www.anouskaproettabrandon.com] Shot on a location : Howth, Dublin, Ireland
Do you Lookbook?
W
hen I think of Lookbook.nu, one of the most style conscious domains on the webisphere - what is the first thing that comes to mind? Glamour, style and fashion? Granted and all the trimmings of hypes, loves and fans. But what I really want to know is what makes a hugely successful lookbooker. Of course they have a perfectly selected wardrobe and beauty to boot, however don’t a vast number of lookbooker have these qualities and yet not every fashion conscious individual gets the privilege of donning the title of a top lookbooker or even getting there looks seen on the main lookbook feed. What I’m interested in are all those incredibly stylish girls and guys who don’t seem to get the recollection and credit they seem to deserve. After having a good search through some of my faves, I decided to speak about someone who isn’t top of the ‘hot’ page every week and possibly not even visible to the general lookbook public at all (due to new strict filters put in place) however- on the contrary this girls has style and good looks by the bucket load and a wardrobe perfectly tailored to her quirky, fresh look. Taylor-Bea Gordon’s style is a delightful mixture of feminine, retro and preppy but with that all important edge. Having a seemingly natural good taste in clothes and an intelligent eye to pair unpredictable pieces and create a fantastic harmony in her outfits, whatever ‘it’ is this girls got IT. So much so that when I came across her looks I couldn’t help but comment on a number of them gushing over her obvious style and creativity. However after checking out Taylors stats i was surprised to find that although she has a generous helping of followers it seemed very small in comparison to the many ‘top’ lookbook regulars followings, despite Ms Bea having all the apparent ingredients to be at the top. This is a classic case of ‘Lookbook-itis’ a term I coined to explain the un-explainable tendencies of Lookbook and the system of gaining popularity- this bright star with apparent style, taste and trends beautifully mixed-together has virtually gone un-noticed in terms of lookbook fame and so I’m going to do the praising that many others seemed to have overlooked. Here are a few short questions Taylor answered for me and a couple of Taylor’s and my own personal favourite looks from Taylor-Bea Gordon on Lookbook.nu. - Acknowledgement is necessary for talent to progress-
By Tanith Rose
[www. rough-dreams-and-ice-cream.blogspot.com]
TR: Who are your style influences? TBG: Helena Bonham Carter really influences the way i dress, she really stands out with her unique and original way of dressing! She hasn’t let fame change the way she dresses and her style is so fresh compared to others! My mom also inspires me a lot, i’m forever borrowing her clothes and flicking through her wardrobe!
TR: How would you describe your style in 3 words? TBG: I’m not really to sure how i would describe my style! I wouldn’t really say i had a set style, some days i may want to look like a pixie, wearing lots of floral patterns and girlish shoes. Other days i may want to go quite vintage! Then other days i may want to look quite rockish. Sometimes my family will joke that i look like like a granny! So i couldn’t really say!
TR: Do you prefer vintage or high street? TBG: Vintage and highstreet goes great together if you let the pieces your wearing mix right! I love vintage shops and charity shops but i can never resist a quick look in Topshop or urban outfitters! TR: Where is your favourite place to shop? TBG: I used to say that charity shops were my favourite place to shop but rarely go in them nowadays. I’m quite hyped on carboot sales lately, i’m forever finding dresses and bags for as little as 50p! Only down side is the early mornings.
Visit Taylor Bea www.lookbook.nu/taylorbea
plasti
ique*
Jen Murse* J
en is a 30-yr old graphic designer from San Francisco, CA. She currently lives in Los Angeles where she works as a full time interactive designer at a small agency as well as the owner and designer for plastique*. She loves to travel and has been around the world and back, she can’t live without music, and dancing of of her faveroite pastimes! WSI: Your pieces are so funky and have a brilliant graphic design edge - how did it all start?? JM: I started by making a ring for myself when i realized I was able to get plastic laser cut to my design files. I am constantly designing for the computer and always loved when I did work that would result in real-life, tangible items whether it’s a magazine, a postcard, or a piece of jewelry. plastique* started as a hobby where i made jewelry for myself and slowly grew as i started making more graphic design related pieces that blogs picked up on from my Etsy shop and the momentum grew from there. WSI: How are the pieces made? JM: First I sketch out designs on paper. Then I translate them on the computer into a vector file. Then I have the designs output to a laser cutter that cuts the plastic which I get in large sheets. I then take all the plastic pieces and meticulously attach chains and earwires to them. Finally I package each piece one by one. So from start to finish the product has touch my hands several times.
WSI: Who/ what inspires you? JM: My friends, fellow designers, blogs, the world around me…. all of it inspires me. Sometimes an idea will stem from a random thing i saw while walking on the street. Other times I will get inspired while having discussions with people about art and design. It really comes from all over. WSI: Is it easy to be creative everyday? JM: No, it definitely isn’t. There are days where I just want to turn my brain off and not thing about design or anything creative at all. But there are other days where the creativity flows and sometimes it means staying up all night to get the pen to the paper and sketch out the ideas.
WSI: What piece if your favorite? Is there one you wear more than others? JM: I really hate picking just one favorite! I love them all! But I just started a whole new batch of designs so those are quickly becoming my new favorites. But if I had to choose from my current designs I’d say my top 3 (i cant just pick 1) are: [LEFT] - Geometric triangle wide necklace www.plastiqueshop.com/product/geometric-triangle-wide-acrylic-necklace - Boombox necklace www.plastiqueshop.com/product/ghetto-blaster-boombox-acrylic-necklace Cmd-z necklace www.plastiqueshop.com/product/cmd-z-undo-acrylic-necklace-black WSI: Using Etsy, Facebook and blogging - has using social networks helped you as an artist/retailer? Why/How? JM: I definitely think I’d be nothing without social networks. There’s so much great stuff out there and half the time no one ever sees it. I just got lucky that somehow people saw my Etsy shop, blogged about it, tweeted about it, and now here I am. I still have a long way to go with the marketing side of my business but social networks have definitely helped me a lot! WSI: The first time you sold something to someone who was not a friend or a relative how did that feel? JM: It’s kind of hard to remember but I know that once i started selling a few things it was so exciting. People were actually buying something I made. And now when i hear from people that they’ve seen my stuff around or have a friend who owns something of mine, it’s really awesome. Typically I design for others when I’m at work, so designing for myself and having people enjoy it enough to pay money for it is a really great feeling. WSI: Is there anything in particular that fuels your creativity as an artist? JM: Not really. Like I said, I draw inspiration from everything around me. So in a sense everything fuels my creativity. WSI: Finally Jen, when your not crafting cool jewelry, what do you get up to? JM: I am always working. Between my full time job and plastique* I’m always working. It’s a rare moment to see me not doing something work related. I know, sad but true. If I’m not at home passed out from exhaustion, I’m probably out with friends at a local bar grabbing a drink. On occasion I’ll indulge in some retail therapy as a reward for my hard work and ideally I’d be at the gym more often that I actually am. ;)
Visit plastique*
www.plastiqueshop.com www.plastiqueshop.com
Kat Banay Time passed and it developed into a passion
K
at Banay is a small town girl born and raised in the quaint city called Dumaguete. She finished college with a bachelor’s degree in IT and is currently working as a computer instructor. In her free time she likes to take beautiful pictures... WSI: Tell us about yourself KB: I like things simple and organized. I love being inspired by the things around me and being able to channel that inspiration through photography and design. Aside from that, I also enjoy reading fiction novels and watching romantic comedy movies. I also prefer doing things by myself because I get to focus more that way. I am a fan of expressing oneself through writing in journals and photography. I am able to appreciate the beauty of nature and the wonderful people and the beautiful places we have in this world. WSI: How did your journey into photography start? KB: I started my interest in photography in 2007. I knew a girl who was a schoolmate, who got to travel to places. She would share photos from her travels online. Although her photos were more random snapshots of herself and her friends, I was so inspired that I also started bringing my camera wherever I went and take pictures of anything I found interesting. Time passed and it developed into a passion and each day I find myself learning or trying out something new. WSI: You do a wide range of photography, landscapes, portraits, fashion, engagements and couples etc. Could you pic a favourite subject ? KB: My favourite is black and white photography, still life and macro, then landscapes (in that order). WSI: You are doing the 365 photo-a-day project, What made you start the project and how are you finding it? KB: I was inspired by flickr users in general. i also wanted to challenge myself and see if i could successfully share a photo a day. i wanted to keep practicing and also learn new styles and techniques, so a 365 would be the best project for those goals. WSI: Whats been your greatest photography achievement so far? KB: An engagement photo shoot for a friend in Singapore. WSI: Who/ what inspires you? KB: Nature and travel.
“I love photos of railroads and powerlines and the sky was in perfect shades�
“This photo gives me a nostalgic feeling, reminding me of my teen years when i exchanged letters with friends in other countries. it always reminds me how much i appreciate snail mails, stamps and other keepsakes.�
WSI: Using Flickr, DeviantArt, Facebook, tumblr etc, has using social networks helped you as an artist? how? KB: Yes, it has. sharing my work through social networks allows me to know what people like and don’t like about my art. also, being able to share it to others motivate me to take more pictures. WSI: What are your tools of the trade? Camera, Lens, editing ? KB: Nikon d60, 18-55 nikkor kit lens, 18-200 sigma, 35mm 1.8G nikkor WSI: What (if anything) have you learned about yourself through photography ? KB: I learned that i have soft spot for anything that looks classic. I feel so inspired when i see photos that feel like film and with that i try to show it in my own work. I also see that I am someone who is able to appreciate nature and it’s beautiful detail. Through photography, I saw that i am deeply interested in people, culture and the world as a whole. WSI: Do you have advice for any newbies who may be thinking of getting into photography? KB: Practice makes perfect. Never think that you already got your best shot. Practice techniques and shooting in unique perspectives. Learn the basics and learn from the pros but try and make your shots your own using unique angles.
“Travel inspires me and I have always been a fan of dreamy photos”
Visit Kat www.katmichelle.tumblr.com/ www.flickr.com/heykat www.katmichellephotodiary.blogspot.com/
Luke
takes Photos “Photography is a form of expression. Capture your passion. Share it with the world.”
L
uke Sharratt is a 23 year old freelance photographer, who lives in London with his partner Chloe, a fellow photographer. Contrary to the city life, he enjoys being surrounded by nature, going on hikes, stargazing, and is more than slightly obsessed with dinosaurs. WSI: How did your journey into photography start? LS: My foray in to Photography is somewhat of a recent venture, but looking way back, I have always had a keen desire to create things- throughout my childhood I experimented with writing, music, fine art and filmmaking. I guess you could say my photography is a culmination of all these influences. WSI: Your work focusing on portraits, they are magical and colorful, Why do you like to photograph people? LS: When I started out, I shot a lot of nature stuff because I found the natural world so fascinating and beautiful. I started to become more comfortable with portraiture because I’ve always (rather fortunately) had Chloe around to shoot, and the two styles just kind of came together naturally. The vibrant colour thing probably comes from being overloaded with cartoons and Nintendo as a kid!
WSI: Who/ what inspires you? LS: I’m inspired by the world around me. It’s hard for me to pinpoint a ‘single’ influence because it’s more a culmination of the experiences I’ve shared with friends and the places I’ve lived and visited. Nature of course has a profound impact on me and my work. WSI: What (if anything) have you learned about yourself through photography? LS: To believe in myself. Which is as clichéd as it is true. It has given me confidence in my abilities as an artist. It’s helped strengthen friendships and form new ones. It’s also opened my eyes to the immeasurable beauty that’s in the world. WSI: Whats been your greatest photography achievement so far? LS: Probably the French Adventure series. We were on vacation in the South of France and stayed at a guest house in the mountains, surrounded by chestnut and pine forests. The series documents our time there. WSI: Using Flickr, DeviantArt, Facebook, tumblr etc, has using social networks helped you as an artist? Why/How? LS: Social networks are a fantastic way to get exposure and to meet like minded artists. When I first signed up to Flickr, I intended nothing more than to share personal photos with friends. Things are different now, but without the contribution and encouragement from the Flickr members who commented on my work in the past, I doubt I’d be where I am now. It’s opened up a network for photographers to help each other out and better themselves. WSI: What are your tools of the trade? Camera, Lens, editing ? LS: I still use Chloe’s 40d with a 50mm 1.8, and Photoshop CS5 for the post processing. I’m saving up to buy my own camera... WSI: Why do you think people are so drawn to Portraiture? LS: It really depends on what kind of portraiture. Maybe because it’s instantly relatable? What I personally find captivating is that good portraits have the ability to tell a story in a single image.
WSI: Where do you see yourself and your working going in the future? LS: Chloe and I have begun offering our joint services as Wedding Photographers, so that’s where the focus is at the moment. In the future I foresee Editorials, Celebrity portraits and a career in the video game industry. In my dreams, that is. WSI: What image of yours, so far is your favorite? Why? LS: Something from the French Adventure series. I have wonderful memories attached to the time spent in France, and I feel like that transfers directly to the photos. A sense of playfulness, adventure and nostalgia.
Visit Luke www.luketakesphotos.co.uk www.flickr.com/lukesharratt
Fashion Illustrator
Anna Dray
N
ineteem year ols Anna Dray is an Illustrator from Kent, Uk. Currently she is finishing an English Literature course but her main love is art and fashion. Her love, in art, is for fashion and people so Fashion Illustration is the perfect outlet. Ideally she likes to draw people in unique poses or situations and then add clothing that matches. In this way both the person and the fashion are equally important. WSI: How did you get into fashion illustration? AD: Well, I’ve been drawing people for as long as I can remember - but it was generally fairy-tale princesses in my younger days. This fairy-tale aspect progressed into drawing historical figures such as Elizabeth I as I was in love with the opulent, detailed dresses the women of that day wore. I still love the clothing in history and it’s a great source of inspiration. I only really started drawing more up to date images within the past few years as I started a blog and began blogging about the fashion shows. Up until that point I hadn’t really taken too much notice of the runway looks, but I found there were lots of gorgeous outfits to be drawn! WSI: Is there anything in particular that fuels your creativity as an artist? AD: Fashion is probably the key influence, if I see a beautiful piece I will just have to draw it. Poses also influence, if I see a dynamic pose in a magazine it will immediately go on my list of things I have to draw. Trawling the images on websites such as flickr can produce a wealth of inspiration too, as can looking at the work of certain artists and photographers such as Tim Walker, Ellen Rogers , Paolo Roversi or Jim Schaeffing. I also find listening to music can fuel creativity as it creates a certain mood that is motivating. Of course films and books play a large role as well. WSI: Is there any designer or model your would love to be asked to draw for why? AD: The list could easily be endless of designers or models I’d love to work for, but ultimately I think Miuccia Prada. Particularly for Miu Miu. Even before I really knew what Miu Miu was I would see clothes of shoes in magazines and fall in love with them - they’d always turn out to be from Miu Miu. I would also love to work for Givenchy or Alexander McQueen, Marchesa, Alberta Ferretti, Dior, Erdem, Hader Ackermann, Holly Fulton, Lanvin, Mary Katrantzou, Meadham Kirchhoff, Rodarte, Valentino...the list could go on!
WSI: Do you have a favourite and why? AD: Of the pieces I’ve done for the 365 day challenge, my favourite would probably have to be the one of Audrey Hepburn in the floral dress. [right] I was able to capture the skin tone better than I have in other pictures. But I did like doing the Suno piece as well - I like painting red hair, it just seems to make a piece more vibrant. WSI: Using Etsy, facebook and blogging - has using social networks helped you as an artist? Why/How? AD: Etsy has definitly helped as a source of inspiration from other artists and also in finding out some of the better materials to use. Blogging has broadened my horizons dramatically: in finding things to post I also come across a lot of other inspiring things and information that may become useful later. I don’t use facebook or twitter for art reasons as there are only so many passwords I can remember, I can never really think of anything witty to say either! WSI: Where would you like to go with your work in the next few years? AD:I like to get better at painting/drawing - that’s my main goal at the moment as I’ve still got a lot to learn. But within the next few years I’d like to possibly use embroidery and sculpture and link them to fashion. I’ve got a few ideas but no practical skill, so there will probably be a lot of practice needed. I’d also like to build up my etsy shop as I’ve only just started it. I suppose the next few years will really be about exploring different mediums and finding my identity as an artist. WSI: Your doing a 365 day challenge - Is it easy to be creative everyday? AD: Truthfully - no. I might see a piece I want to paint but then have to find a person/pose to match it, going through all my folders of inspiration to find the right one can be monotonous - but in the end the process is rewarding as I’m learning new things every day - not to mention patience.
Visit Anna Blog: http://quietrebel.wordpress.com Etsy: http://w ww.etsy.com/shop/QuietestEyes
Afternoon Sister.
Photographer: Mariana Quevedo Models: Rossi Ann Saenz and Kara Mullins MUA: Ashley Walker Hair: Robyn Mayer
Sarah Ann
Loreth
S
arah Ann’s work is bold, beautiful and emotional. Her work with self portraits are inspiring and innovative. Naturally shes gaining alot of interest from the photoghraphy world. WSI: Tell us about yourself SAL: I’m really just a quiet shy girl with her camera :) WSI: How did your journey into photography start? SAL: It’s funny really, a year ago I went to the zoo with my DSLR I had gotten for Christmas a few years before that I really had no idea how to use. It was the Canon Rebel XT. I had posted the pictures on Facebook and people were so kind and encouraging I decided to take more pictures. Which led to more pictures and more pictures. I just couldn’t stop. WSI: What interested you into starting the 365 project? SAL: I saw the growth of other photographers who had completed it and I thought it would be a fantastic way to grow in a short period of time. It was. I feel three months in I had reached a point I had never been before. With practice and reading I was able to teach myself new techniques and my skill level really improved. But I still have so much to learn. WSI: You project is far more than a photo-a-day, each one is like a work of art, do you feel pressure sometimes to continue to produce such a high quality of work? SAL: I absolutely do. It became so bad I would spend hours crying because I didn’t have the perfect idea or couldn’t complete the perfect concept. In the end it made me question my ability as a photographer and I was sick with stress induced migraines all the time. So, I decided to post when I could and only what I loved. It’s made the project a lot more bearable even though it’s beyond the rules. But it is my project and my rules.
WSI: Do your images take a lot of planning/ whats the process involved? SAL: It really depends. Some photos I plan for weeks and weeks and sketch all the details in my notebook. Others, it’s merely a matter of finding a location and working it. WSI: Whats been your greatest photography achievement so far? SAL: I think probably getting licensed from a stock agency. My dream is to be on a book cover. I might just lay down and die when that happens. WSI: Where do you see yourself after the project? Do you have plans to start something new? SAL: Well, I hope to continue uploading on a regular basis and at this point I don’t have anything new. Maybe a 52 weeks? But probably not. The pressure would get to me. I still want to be a helpful tutoring presence however. I love to teach and create actions and tutorials. Maybe I’ll run a workshop, who knows? WSI: Who/ what inspires you? SAL: I am inspired most by abandonment, poetry, and nature. Nothing feels as wonderful and beautiful to me than nature and an abandoned building.
WSI: Why do you think people are so drawn to self portraits? SAL: For me, it’s not so much about me. It’s about the character I am able to portray. Self portraiture to me is a convenience and because of my painful shyness when it comes to photographing other people. I feel most comfortable going out and knowing exactly how I want to portray the idea in my head. I feel however that this can be somewhat limiting. WSI: Using Flickr, DeviantArt, Facebook, tumblr etc, has using social networks helped you as an artist? How? SAL: Gosh absolutely! Had it not been for Facebook and Flickr I’d probably would have stopped taking pictures months ago. People have been so kind and encouraging and it’s wonderful to see other people’s work and grow from them. WSI: What are your tools of the trade? Camera, Lens, editing ? SAL: I use the Canon 5d Markii with the Canon 50mm 1.2 and Photoshop CS5. WSI: What (if anything) have you learned about yourself through photography and the 365 project? SAL: I’ve learned that my life was worth something after all. That perhaps my dream of becoming an artist could come true. I’ve learned to be patient and kind to myself because I am the best that I have. I’ve learned to be less shy and be comfortable with myself and my body. I guess it has just taught me, me. WSI: What image of yours, so far is your favorite? Why? SAL: This is an ever changing question. At the beginning of the project I would have said day 30. These days, it’s day 192 The Watcher (right) . I feel this came out exactly how I pictured it in my head and it’s always so fulfilling when that happens. WSI: Finally Sarah Ann, do you have advice for any newbies who may be thinking of starting a 365 project? SAL: Don’t stress about it. Let it come naturally and don’t force it. The project isn’t worth it in the end it you don’t grow both as an artist and a person. Believe in you and let it happen.
Visit Sarah Ann www.flickr.com/photos/likedaffodils/ www.facebook.com/pages/Sarah-Ann-Loreth-Photography/152280324796562
Fiona Mangan
Millinery
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rish Designer Fiona is based in Athenry, Galway, Ireland. She set up her millinery label in April of 2010. She can boast two completed collections and supplies her work to a number of boutiques and online stores. With a natural creative flair and a background in Architecture, she creates truly unique and iconic headwear.
WSI: Growing up did you have any strong influences around you that inspired your love for fashion and millinery? FM: Yes, I attribute my basic needlework skills - sewing, knitting, crochet and even macramé to my mother and my grandmother from Donegal who was a seamstress. Also to the nuns at my primary school in Ennis. I am grateful for all the crafting skills that I was taught by them, it is something that is sadly lacking in the education system today. When I was 13, I started making some wacky clothes and for ‘going out’ occasions I would wear them with pride!! I even went through a ‘beehive’ hairdo phase – I loved being a little different!! I attended an intense one-month course in dress design, focusing on millinery, at the age of 17 in the Grafton Academy, Dublin, which really was the point that I realised this, was what I really wanted to do. WSI: When you met the crossroads what made you take the direction of architecture, when you seemed to have a natural flair for fashion? FM: I guess it was a decision that was based purely on where there would be a job at the end of the day. I was accepted into Limerick School of Art and Design with a view to studying fashion but made the very difficult decision of choosing a place studying Architecture in DIT Bolton Street, Dublin, which at the time seemed like the right decision. WSI: During your time as an architect, did you still feel a strong affiliation with fashion and design? FM: Through the 5 years studying Architecture, I never stopped crafting. We would have a formal themed ball every year. For the movie themed ball I made a sculptural headpiece out old film reel!! My love of fashion extended to my final year in where my thesis project was based on a building designed for fashion entitled: ‘Academy of Fashion Design and Marketing’. So yes, you could say I did have a huge affiliation for Fashion and Design. I went through a few busy years, years of being a full-time mum full-time Architect – so there wasn’t time for anything else!!! But I was glad to be able to strike up my passion for millinery when I was made redundant and the kids were a little older.
WSI: As a milliner starting out in the industry what where some of the challenges you had to over-come? FM: Initially I just took the whole thing one step at a time and treated it very much as a cottage industry, selling my first hat in May of 2010. Therefore I had no huge financial investment to overcome. On the other hand, I started out in the middle of a recession where people are more cost conscious with hats being quite a luxury item. Millinery is quite a niche market and Ireland is small so you have to work hard to build a client base. I am still very much working on that. But with all the hype over recent royal weddings, more and more people are wearing hats and headpieces so I am getting a steady pipeline of new business. WSI: When creating a new collection, how do you like to get inspired? FM: I have launched 2 collections to date. When I create a collection, I become my own best client so I can bring my imagination to life. But on saying that, I love to have a theme, some constraints to work within - It makes the whole process more challenging. I am inspired by the built environment, clean-cut sculpture, retro style of the 50’s and as every designer - everyday mundane things. At the moment, I am working on my A/W 2011, which is broken down into 3 parts. It is inspired very much by events happening later in the year. I can’t give away any more information on it at present, but it will be wild and wonderful and worth waiting for!!! WSI: Do you ever get a creative block and if so how do you overcome it? FM: Yes I do get ‘milliners block’, pardon the pun, as does every designer. I just walk away from the hat, sleep on it (the idea, not the hat!) and a solution will usually hit me like a bolt of lightening by the next day, or equally hit me in the middle of the night. There is always a solution to every design problem. I learned that from my work in Architecture. WSI: Your hats are beautifully intricate and lust-worthy, how long on average do these creations take to make? FM: If a hat is very experimental, it could take 10-12 hours and I would probably spend another few hours sourcing materials and ideas. But some take only 4 or 5 hours. It very much depends on the process. Traditional millinery techniques are quite specific and time consuming. I am not a fan of quick rough finishes or the use of glue. I hand sew almost everything. How a hat looks from the back, and on the inside are equally as important as how it looks from the front. WSI: So far what has been your highest point among your many stunning achievements? FM: Oh Gosh! There have been a few. I think the short listing for the Fashion Innovation Awards back in March was definitely one of the highest….I just have to take home the trophy the next time!!!
WSI: We See It love the idea that you also up-cycle old hats, what would be your most memorable up-cycle and why? FM: There is often as much work in upcycling as making a completely new hat! Though sometimes, I have people looking to change a colour, or to add some additional colours, which is kind of fun. My most memorable? I would have to say a faded teal blue full crown and brimmed hat, which I turned into a disc. It took about 2 hours to completely take apart the hat and cut out the faded parts. Then I had to do my best to salvage the un-faded material. The end result was fairly good I have to say, and I gave the delighted client back a whole new hat!! WSI: And finally do you have any career advice for up and coming designers who have a dream like yours? FM: I am still that up-and-coming designer and trying to live the dream myself. But honestly, it’s a hard slog, you have to be so passionate about it and want it so bad. I live, drink, breath and dream hats, which I know sounds crazy. I don’t think I was as passionate as that about my previous career. You have busy days, long nights which can be very consuming and draining. But you get payback when you see a delighted and satisfied client and smile on the onlookers face when you wear a wonderful creation!
VISIT FIONA
www.facebook.com/pages/Fiona-Mangan-Designs www. fionamangandesigns.com
Imperfections make something unique
Johannes Schimpfhauser
WSI: Tell us about yourself Johannes JS: My name is Johannes Schimpfhauser and I´m 18 year old and from a small town in south-east germany. I´m still a student and pretty introverted and shy but if you know me a bit or if you are really into photography and can talk with me about photography related stuff I won´t stop talking. WSI: How did your journey into photography start? JS: My journey into photography started about 3 years ago when I got my first camera and also my first DSLR, a Canon EOS 400D or Rebel XTi in the US. In the first few months I just took snapshot and wasn’t that much into photography but after I got my first better lens - well now I think this lens isn´t nearly good but I thought it´s better, I really began to like photography and after I got ma 50/1.4 I fell totally in love with photography and since that day I learn everyday a bit more about photography and I really have to learn a lot more but I´m young and I have time to learn. WSI: Who/ what inspires you? JS: Well this question isn´t that easy but I thin I´m mostly inspired by all the amazing flickr people and friends like Pauline Roupski, Barlas Sahinoglu, Erin Rena and Julian Wagner (my best friend and photography partner) to just name some of my inspirational flickr friends. I´m also inspired by people like JordanVoth, Noah Sahady, Will Manning, Billy Pham, Jonathan Yacoub and so on. So I´m mostly inspired by other people, especially Jordan Voth and Will Manning are one of those people who are the reason why I love photography. WSI: What are your tools of the trade? Camera, Lens, editing ? JS: Well I actually use my trusty old 400D/XTi but I hope that my 5D MarkII arrives as soon as possible because my XTi is broken and I mainly use my 50/1.4 and it will also be the only lens which I can use on my 5D. For editing I use an Apple iMac with Aperture3 and Photoshop CS5. WSI: Whats been your greatest photography achievement so far? JS: I think my biggest photography achievement is - I hope that doesn´t sound weird - that there are people other who see a picture and say “this was taken by Johannes for sure” so I have an own style which isn´t like other styles and this is an achievement for me.
WSI: What (if anything) have you learned about yourself through photography ? JS: I think I learned that nobody is perfect and I´m not perfect either but all those imperfections make something unique - no matter if people or pictures. WSI: Where do you see yourself going with your photography? JS: I don´t exactly know where I´m going with my photography but my biggest wish is to become a photographer who can live with his photography. But I think thats a dream for all people who are into photography but we´ll know more in a few years WSI: Has using social networks helped you as an artist? How? JS: I´m using Facebook, Flickr, 500px andTumblr. Facebook mainly for people who are not that much into photography and don´t have flickr because those can be customers one day. Flickr is for talking with other photographers and people who are really into photography and I think I found some amazing people and friends there. Flickr is also a nice website to present your picture to other but I use it for talking to other photographer most of the time. 500px is pretty new to me but I think it can be the next flickr and it´s more for professional things and not for every picture you take like flickr. Tumblr is more my personal blog but I also post my own pictures there. I feel they helped me especially because I found some other people who love photography as much as I do! WSI: Finally Johannes, do you have advice for any newbies who may be thinking of getting into photography? JS: I don´t know if I´m in the position to give advice but I think that you should first learn how to use your camera and how to use light because those two thinks are pretty important. You can have loads of good equipment but it´s useless if you don´t know how to use it and if you don´t know how to use light. And don´t be afraid of trying new things!
Visit Johannes
www.facebook.com/pages/Johannes-Schimpfhauser-Photography www.flickr.com/photos/schimpfephoto/ www.500px.com/Schimpfe
Emma
Wiesenekker
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mma Wiesenekker is a nineteen year old illustration student living in Melbourne with one very cool house mate and one very annoying cat. She loves painting, drawing and watching bad 80’s movies. She also have a slight fascination with birds. WSI: How did your journey as an artist start? EW: I suppose it started quite early, art was always my favourite subject at school but it was only very recently that I decided I wanted to pursue illustration as a career. Originally I started a graphic design course, but after six months of studying packaging design for things like soft drink and dog food I quickly decided that it wasn’t for me. I’d much rather be drawing the things that I find beautiful and interesting. WSI: Do your pieces take alot of planning/ what’s the process involved? EW: Some more than others, most originate from a sketch that I liked and then developed. On very rare occasions I can dream up an image and then get straight to work on a final. I usually start with layers of water colour paint which I then work over with ink line work. WSI: Whats been your greatest achievement so far? EW: I was lucky enough to be a guest illustrator in Issue #50 of the Aussie mag ‘Yen’. It was great to see my illustrations on the pages which have previously hosted some of my favourite illustrators. WSI: Where do you see yourself going with your art? EW: I’m actually in the process of setting up an Etsy store to sell some prints through which is very exciting! Eventually though I’d like to get a studio space, where I could work freelance. I’d also love to have exhibitions and at some point, if I’m lucky, work overseas.
WSI: Do you ever get illustrators block? If so how do you overcome it? EW: From time to time I do get stuck, but it tends not to last for long. I usually find that it happens when I spend too much time on the internet where there is so much good illustration that it can make a gal feel a bit inadequate. A break from the computer generally solves this problem. WSI: What (if anything) have you learned about yourself through your art? EW: I’ve discovered that I can be quite organized and a hard worker, qualities I didn’t think I had, and which I don’t really apply to things that aren’t art related… WSI: Your work is beautiful and really stands out, what inspires you? EW: Aw shucks, thank you! I really love natural history illustration and the museum. But anything from a good book to spending a day with my friends can inspire a drawing. **The bird illustration above was comissioned by Emma especially for We See It, Thanks Emma!!
WSI : Do you have advice for any Illustrator-newbies? EW: Eek, I’m not sure if I’m qualified to give advice as I still consider myself a bit of a newbie. One thing I really try hard to achieve and that I think is important is presenting your work as professionally as possible (even if you’re not yet a professional). Scanning your illustrations, mounting them, or taking good quality photographs of your work makes a huge difference. Even little things like getting rid of smudges and lines that aren’t supposed to be there also helps. EW: Last, but very impotant question Emma, what piece of yours, so far is your favorite? Why? Probably the “Kingfisher of the Castle” illustration, sometimes I look back on pieces that I’ve done and really dislike them, but this one has stood the test of time in my eyes. It was also the first piece that I’d done that I could recognize a style that I was happy with.
Visit Emma
www.emmawiesenekker.blogspot.com www.emmawiesenekker.tumblr.com
schMick produKtions
Michael Kuiri an eclectic Brisbane photographer. He’s photographed everything from corporate events, to live music; weddings and creative model portfolio shoots. A big fan of Sci-fi and Fantasy. For him, it’s a passion from which I can also make a living.
Visit Michael :
www.facebook.com/pages/schMick-produKtions/168402264747 www.picasaweb.google.com/116265577786837769328
We are now accepting submissions for We See It | Vol. 2. Photographers, artists, designers, illustrators, writers, We Want You! Fashion editorials, collections, stories, we want to showcase your talent! Writers | bloggers Please email your a link to your blog and include a brief description of yourself and your idea for a story/ article. Photographers | Artists | Illustrators We want to feature interviews with all kinds of creatives. Please email us and tell us about yourself and what you do. Include a link to your portfolio. We want to interview you and showcase YOUR art! Editorials Please check out out blog for submission info: www.weseeitmag.blogspot.com Fashion Designers | Crafters We want to feature you too! Email some high res images and a description of yourself and your work to us. Remember to include a link to your blog or site. If you have something to include that doesnt fit in with our guide here, please just drop us a mail and we will try to respond. Our Flickr Group - www.flickr.com/groups/1697722@N20/ Our Facebook - www.facebook.com/pages/We-See-It-Magazine/183813481672374 Submit or just say hello: weseeitmag@gmail.com x We See It