What made you decide to become a photographer? Was it something you’d always had an interest in or was it just a different way to tell a story instead of writing?

I became interested in photography while working The Daily Trojan, the school newspaper at the University of Southern California. I was exploring different methods of storytelling and was drawn to photography as a medium for expression. I love being able to tell stories visually as well as through words and feel that the subject dictates the medium.

How do you come up with an idea and what is your working method? What are the things which catch your attention?

I wish I had a more organized working method! Currently, I gather ideas and let them percolate in my mind for a while before creating concepts. From there, I refine the work until I feel satisfied with it. Right now, I’m really interested in scientific diagrams and medical imagery like x-rays and anatomy charts. 

What do you hope to capture and convey in the pieces you create?

I love that art is open to interpretation. I have an idea or narrative in mind but welcome the thoughts and readings of the viewer.

How has your work developed since you began and how do you see it evolving in the future?

Recently, I’ve begun experimenting with more physical mediums including collage and multimedia painting. I’m looking forward to continuing to hone my film photography skills and find new ways to express myself.

To what extent does the pandemic influence your depiction of art? Does it generate new inspiration?  

I used art as a way to cope with the uncertainty of 2020. I feel that I took more risks and created more experimental works as a response to the stress of the pandemic. I started shooting film photography, chemically altering 35mm negatives, and dabbling in collage and painting. 

How do you feel about being involved in an online residency program? How important is it to stay connected with the international art community?

This is my first experience in an online residency program. I was missing a sense of community I used to find in-person at art shows and was happy to participate virtually. I also enjoy the global aspect of the online residency and meeting artists from around the world. 

What are your thoughts about the theme ‘artist on standby’? Tell us a bit more about your project…

While we are all on standby, I would like to explore the ways in which memory affects perception. Earlier in the pandemic, I felt a great sense of nostalgia for mundane activities like taking the train, I would like to capture some of that feeling with my art.

What do you want to achieve before things return to normal?

I’d like to improve the consistency of my film photography.

Any future plans/projects?

I can’t wait to travel!