Where are you currently based, and is this a permanent position or do you like to move around with your work? (if you like to move around, do you think that it's important to further yourself in industry?)
Iām currently traveling, but having London as a permanent base at the moment. I remember Koudelka once said in an interview ā āāI just travel, I look and everything influences me. For 40 years I have been traveling. I never stay in one country more than three months. Why? Because I was interested in seeing, and if I stay longer I become blind. I became what I am from how I was born, but also what photography made from me. Other people ask me, āAre you still Czech or are you French?ā I donāt know who I am ā people who see me might say who I am. I am the product of all this continuous traveling, but I know where I come from.''
That is exactly what I experience and how I feel.
What is the best piece of advice you've been given by a Professional Photographer?
When I had my portfolio review with Ryan McGinley, we have had a very long conversation and he mentioned he sees I am curious and go into many directions ā street, documentary, fine art, fashion; therefore, he gives me the same advice that he gives to himself ā and that is to bring all the worlds together. That moment was awakening, and that is what I am currently working on at the moment ā developing a strong signature style. Also, another great advice it was given by Gregory Colbert, and that is to carry your camera like a musical instrument. Both Ryan and Gregory are wonderful human beings and I am beyond grateful for having crossed paths with them.
Assisting and Volunteering vs. University? What have you found to be more beneficial? Or do you feel you need a little of both to gain the best education for the industry?
I think it really is up to anyoneās standards, choices and expectations. I found both of them extremely beneficial, as they did open my eyes to new perspectives, but I think you can still make it without them too. It is all a matter of drive and focus.
Your Project called 'Birds In Space' was to me a very powerful piece, how did you go about this project and will you continue down this path?
It was my final major project, inspired by the link between Constantin Brancusiās series of sculptures and the golden era of Romanian gymnastics ā was supposed to end up as a stylized fashion piece (see film āBirds in Spaceā), however the documentary part of photographing young gymnasts in my hometown, as a movement study at first, has deeply affected me, so I decided to continue documenting them. I donāt want to stop anytime soon. Maybe ask me again in 5 years time.
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