JONATHAN CHERRY: What did you want to be growing up?
SOPHIE BARBASCH: Astronaut was probably the most compelling. That was before I knew how difficult Physics is. Small impediment. But I still like that chalky space-themed ice cream that comes in the vacuum packs.
JC: Who or what is inspiring you at the moment?
SB: Amy Poehler. She is my comedic heroine, along with Maria Bamford. I’m also really inspired by the work of UltraViolet, an organization that advocates for women’s rights. I’m reading W. G. Sebald’s The Emmigrants, which is a beautiful, stunning book. I love Bjork’s new album. I recently discovered Raymond Meeks’ amazing artist books.
JC: What are you up to right now?
SB: Plotting what I’m going to eat for dinner. I’d say I think about this 80% of my waking life.
JC: Have you had mentors along the way?
SB: I’ve had wonderful mentors, often connected to the places I’ve worked and studied - ICP, Brown, and RISD. My family members are also good with advice—they love giving their unfiltered opinions! I count my photo friends as mentors too.
JC: Where are you based right now and how is it shaping you?
SB: I’m based in New York City right now. It is shaping me, for sure, because it’s pressured and there is not a lot of time for reflection. It’s hard to focus on making work. But the difficulties end up motivating me to make sure I still find time to shoot. Of course the great thing about being here is that there are always a lot of shows to see.
JC: One piece of advice to photography graduates?
SB: Find funny people that make you laugh and spend as much time as possible with them. Funny people keep you honest and remind you that taking things too seriously is only for the lame kids. Plus, they’re entertaining!
JC: If all else fails - what is your plan B?
JC: Is it important to you to be a part of a creative community?
SB: Yes. Creative endeavors can be lonely if you’re not careful. It’s all on you: you have to make work, stay motivated, stay afloat, etc. Because artists often don’t have the structures that a lot of people have, like a steady job, it’s harder to have a sense of stability. Community creates this stability. It’s also fun to be around intelligent, artistic people.
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