Stolen Ground interviews: Emily Howell
As a different way to showcase photographers we like, every once in a while we're gonna post interviews we've done with people we think you should know. The first one on our list was Emily Howell, which we featured a few weeks ago. Please tell us a bit about yourself.
Currently I am based in Santa Cruz, California attending UC Santa Cruz as a 4th year student. I grew up in San Diego, but most of my photographic work is when I moved up north. I enjoy going to shows and photo-based printmaking in addition to analog photography.
When did you first start taking photos?
I had taken a couple of photography classes in high school when I was around fifteen and I’d say that was when I actually began to take photos in an artistic perspective.
What was your first camera?
It was my dad’s Canon AE-1, a classic film camera and I instantly fell in love.
And your camera of choice right now?
I primarily alternate between my Canon A1 and the AE-1 but recently I’ve been shooting with a point-and-shoot Olympus XA2 at shows since I’ve busted nice equipment too many times while in a pit.
What inspires your work?
The majority of my inspiration comes from the people I am surrounded by and the events that go on in the music community. I love going to DYI shows thrown in alternative spaces and photographing the people, as well and the space-- I believe the space itself tells as much of a story as the people do. I also enjoy capturing imitate moments of my partner and the little things about being in a relationship.
Is there an artist that has most influenced your work?
Nan Goldin, Derek Ridgers and a lot of contemporary artists on flickr that seem to be in the same headspace, capturing youth culture and lifestyles.
Film or digital
Film. Always. Keep the tangible art of photography alive!
You seem to be involved in music. Any bands you would recommend?
I’d say first off, support your local music scene; you never know the extent of hidden talent in your city. Other great bands that come to mind; Swearin’, Jawbreaker, Reatards, Institute, Olive Drab, Snowing, Blitz, Defiance Ohio
Any final words?
I get most excited about making work and shooting when people are also creating and doing exciting things for the community; art shows, house shows, etc. I think it’s sort of a contagious thing to be creative so I encourage others to try to make stuff happen; it really helps me to be inspired by seeing others do amazing things in the art/musical realm.
(Tumblr/Flickr)
