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Artist of the Month - Alexander Courtman
2 years ago
Portrait, Alexander Courtman
- what was the first photography book you bought?
The first book I remember buying was the retrospective from Pierre et Gilles after seeing one of their exibitions. At that time I gasped at the way the pictures were staged and retouched. I knew nothing about photography at this time and i just admired the different works that opened for me.
- what is your favourite colour?
This changes a lot. It's more a question of surrounding and mood.. sometimes I freak out about blues and greens, sometimes I get lost in beige. Imagine the blue sky on a chilly but sunny day after the sun goes down.. those 10 minutes of blue are just amazing. Look at the beige on a Greek beach during the day.. that can be amazing as well.
- who are your photographic influences?
There are a lot of photographers that set my way. Some known, some people I worked with during my career as a make-up artist. I'm very influenced by the photography of Alasdair McLellan. I love how he gets everything from the people he is taking pictures of and most of the moods he is creating awakes a very old and youthful desire in me.
- what is your favourite museum?
Definitely the Foundation Beyeler in Basel. It's a museum located outside of the city and it's one of the quietest places I've ever been to. The natural light in there is just breathtaking.
- if you could buy any photograph which would it be?
I probably would buy a Helmut Newton or Mapplethorpe..I was always a big fan of both of them and I think its timeless pieces I'd love to have in my home.
- your favourite holiday destination?
I don´t have a favourite holiday destination.. I love several cities like Venice, Paris and Lisbon, but my favorite place is funnily enough my home. I live in a very small house with a garden and I just love being in my city with all the people I know and love.
- if there is one living person you could photograph who would it be?
It's a difficult question, as I am attracted to so many interesting people. One day I'd love to get myself into a metier like skateboarding or motorcycling or something like this. Get these peoples trust and live with them while taking photos for the moment. I'd love to take a portrait of Taron Egerton. I admire all his different expressions and faces.
- what is your guilty pleasure?
Fashion. For sure. I always try to cut down a bit, but as I think as fashion as an art form, then I think I'm a collector.
- what is your favourite city?
Venice. I can't really tell you why, but always when I'm there, I feel happy. Paris - because it's inspiring. the people, the vibe, the buildings make me feel like I would have to take pictures all day long.
