Audelin Chappuis

French culture has always been associated with aristocracy, grace, beauty and the world’s greatest artists. There is no country like France as far as art is concerned.

It‘s an honour to introduce you the representative of this fabulous country - a person who knows a lot about an art - French cultural attaché Audelin Chappuis.

Where are you originally from?

I was born in Versailles and moved to Paris when I was 15.

Audelin Chappuis

Why Lithuania?  Did you get to choose? How much time have you spent in this country already?

Iit was a choice. Lithuania integrated EU and I was interested in this country that moved from one union to another so quickly : less than 15 years!

In August it will be 3 years that I am here. After that one more year remains.

How different are Lithuanians from French people? What major differences did you notice?

The more you live in the country, the more you understand that there is no typical French or typical Lithuanian. But I would say that French and Lithuanian people should know each other better. It’s a challenge!

In Lithuania people are very respectful everywhere: in shops, restaurants, public transport. They also express themselves freely.

I heard during the meeting at French Embassy that you collaborate with artists.

The essence of my job is promoting French culture. So collaboration with artists is a must. At the beginning I used to work more with French artists, but now more and more I work on collaboration between French and Lithuanian artists: caring out projects together. Like I said, French and Lithuanian people have to know each other better. Achieving this objective through various artistic projects is my job and I am very excited about it.

What about your creative side? Any hidden talents that you are proud of?

I‘m not sure. I can play piano, but I‘m not an artist.

Nevertheless I need art. I enjoy it.  I like visual art, literature.

What do you like to read?

I can not single out any genre or country. I like literature from all over the world.

Usually I don‘t have much time to read, but if I want a good book, I ask my friends for advice. Some of them are avid readers. They read a lot of books. I prefer to get recommendations from them before I pick a book.

What are your favourite cultural places, subjects, topics in Lithuania?

There are so many amazing places! The National Gallery, The Centre of Contemporary Art, Philharmonic, Opera House, cinemas Pasaka and Skalvija. Also the Academy of Arts. It‘s so nice - you feel excitement and creativity in the air no matter when you come there. In Kaunas I like Zilinskas Gallery, in Klaipėda I enjoy The Art Exhibition Hall. It doesn’t matter whether it is a little gallery or a big establishment, the most important thing is that you feel good there.

What is your favorite pastime?

Hunting with hounds or the big-game hunting experience without shooting animal. Its a great outdoor sport.  You get to use dogs and horses to follow an animal and cornet it, but no shooting!

How often you go back to France? Not very often. Four times a year maximum. I go twice between September and March because of the hunting. Also once during summer.

Mofeta & Jerre

Who is this Sweden based duo? It was the name that captured the interest. I introduce you Jens Siverstedt, a member of a band, which every fan of good music should know. Enjoy.

Julija: I don't understand Swedish language, but I like the sound of your songs, Mofeta & Jerre seems to be a positive band. What do you sing about?

Jens: Haha, Swedish must sound really weird when you don't understand it! We try to sing about different topics, lately we've try to write more serious lyrics, more about love, politics and deeper stories. But when people think about us, they often think that we just write about party and easy-going things. I think that they should listen to our albums!

Mofeta & Jerre

Julija: I know your band collaborates with a Swedish rapper Promoe. Could you elaborate?

Jens: Sure, we went on a big tour during 2009-2010 with Promoe, we were his backing liveband. It was a really good time, he's a good friend of mine. I'm working with Promoe in the studio with some tracks that I've produced.

Julija: Do you play with other musicians?

Jens: Yeah sure! With my liveband "Spiderdogs" we've made a lot gigs with other artist, mainly hip hop artists. We've played with Adam Tensta, Chords, Timbuktu, Looptroop Rockers and many more.

Julija: Do you need special occasions or inspirations to create? If yes, what inspires you?

Jens: Hm, that's hard to answer. I often get the best results when I don't expect anything. When my mind is clean and don't have to bother of anyting else. But during the nightime I always get into a better mood for making good music.

Julija: What is the feeling when you hear your songs on the radio or see videos on MTV?

Jens: That's great! That's a big part of being a musician, to get the audience to hear your music, that's like the final stage of making music.

Band's latest videos:  



Julija: What are you listening to at the moment?

Jens: I'm listening to a lot of different music, At the moment I discovered "Frank Ocean" he's really great. And if you like good hip hop music you should listen to "Fashawn - Boy Meets World.

I thank Jens for the interview!

Azin Ashourvan

Cool people go to San Francisco. Yes, they really do! Azin Ashourvan is as creative as he is enthusiastic about his work and life on the hills of San Francisco. Originally from Sweden, he has already spent one year in California working as an Art Director at the creative agency Goodby, Silverstein & Partners. He intends to keep on working and enjoying northern California life style in San Francisco for another year or more.
Despite time differences between USA and Europe, we had a nice conversation.

Azin Ashourvan, self portrait

Julija: Azin, you experienced Hyper Island. How was it and what did you get from it?
Azin: Yes, I went to Hyper Island in Stockholm. It was an intense year – you have to work a lot there! But, of course, it was a fun experience with lots of people from different countries such as Germany, Italy, Spain, Canada, USA, UK, Norway and Denmark. We had to make plenty of projects. You get divided into groups and everyone has their own ideas!
Julija: And how did you choose to move to California?
Azin: Well, I was not planning to go there at all. I wanted to go to London. But I’ve met two guys from the agency, at Hyper Island, who were interested in having me and my creative partner for an internship in the U.S. And it happened so that I applied for that and seized the opportunity to go to the U.S. I spent over a year here already and I am planning to stay here for at least one more year.
Julija: So how does your typical day look like?
Azin: It depends. We are working with production companies, therefore we juggling a lot of projects. When we start new projects, we go through the brainstorming sessions and generating ideas. Then we are presenting our concepts to Creative Directors and so on... It means: lots of meetings!
Julija: Let‘s talk about photography. Your photos are so bright and inspiring, some of them even enchanting. How did you get into photography?
Azin: I was always interested in photography, but got into it more seriously in 2004. I went to India and was taking a lot of photos there... I like shooting people. I like portraits.

From Azin's photo exhibition, photo by Sima Korenivski

Julija: What cameras do you use?
Azin: Nikon D700 and Panasonic GF2.
Julija: Talking about other arts, what music, books and films currently interest you?
Azin: Basically, I like various styles of music. But, perhaps mostly indie pop and electro pop. I’m currently listening to James Blake and Panda Bear. I always like to listen to new tunes. I keep checking what’s new in the music world. Well, in summary: I like different stuff.
About books... I like rock biographies. Motley Crue, Marilyn Manson, etc... Very interesting.
Films... I recently saw RIO! In general I don‘t like action, but prefer indie drama comedies.
Julija: Favorite San Francisco hangout?
Azin: Dolores Park! Every weekend is like a music festival, where people come to meet each other, play music and drink beer.

Azin in Dolores park, photo by Hanna Wittmark

Hayden Rhodes

New Zealand born Hayden Rhodes knows how to change your life. He, a positive mind and strong body specialist, is working as a performance coach. He has helped a lot of people all over the world, including athletes and celebrities. His energetic, positive attitude and sincere smile radiates good vibes.


Hayden, naturally getting ready to help people with their minds and bodies

SPORTS

Hayden always was very active. As a junior he trained at national levels in both swimming and gymnasitics and also played competitive rugby in New Zealand, until he got injured. Doctors understood, that sports were a big part of Hayden's life, but adviced him to forget about rugby for the sake of health. Hayden was upset yet turned to the ocean that he loves and started surfing. He later qualified for the NZ University Surfing Team. Boarding is his passion! He now surfs and snowboards all over the world. Extreme!

WHY

Hayden is a motivated person. He has always been. He used to not understood why people become depressed and had a hard time dealing with loved ones when they were down. But later he got it. He understood how low people can go and discovered the negative side of life when he had to survive the bad times. Hayden realized how much you can be upset and that is not cool at all. When he rebuilt his confidence and strength he decided: he is gonna live healthy, positively, and learn the complexities of chemicals, moods, nutrition, movement to help people to also live with health and stay positive physically, mentally and emotionally.


Hayden, teaching breathing techniques for relaxation and power in the pool

STUDIES

After finishing studies at the University of Waikato, Rhodes decided to go deep into athletic performance and nutrition. He has learned a lot from doctors. Combining this knowledge with what he learned in behavior, psychology and education studies helped him to achieve the best result. Hayden admits, that if you want to understand human‘s mind and body, you have to work with hundreds of people. Then you can influence thousands.

WORK

Hayden helps people to become healthy, happy and strong individuals. His life coaching lessons, trainings and communication helps to get their confidence back, regain positive thinking, health and beauty.
„You have to be aware that everything is gonna change, that is the only certainty, life is always changing... evolving...".

Hayden training, keeping his mind positive and his body strong

CHANGES
How many people can easily change language, culture, job, and living environment or their body shape or their thinking? What about all these things at the same time? Hayden admits, life can sometimes have lots of stress and immediately adds that you have to learn to let changes to happen.

CLIENTS

How this man finds people to work with? It is not a big secret that there are not too many experts doing that kind of job, so clients find him themselves. Hayden has a great connection with various musicians, athletes, and club managers. He believes everyone needs a coach including people in music. A personal coach who makes ones life easier, helps and teaches to perform better, to recover after exhaustions and develop stronger living habits. Hayden admits that musicians teach him, too. They make him to be creative!

Hayden with Sean Fitzpatrick

WORLDWIDE

Hayden has traveled and worked around the world: New Zealand, Australia, Japan, America, UK, Thailand.

Lots of countries and a huge experience. “You learn so much while traveling!”
He also speaks different languages, such as Japanese and Thai.
Now Hayden is working in Germany, near Cologne. He is living a happy life, full of real miracles.

If you feel good, you look happy and associate with goodness. Welcome to the healthier life and
better world!

I thank Hayden for our conversation! If you also would like a free chat about your life just ask him! He will do it! 

For those Extreme Athletes follow this site- http://www.boardbetter.blogspot.com/
For physical and mental confidence and strength please visit-  http://www.evolvingcirclelivecoaching.com/

Le français et sa Muse

Si vous êtes intéressés par la mode,  je suis sûr que vous avez déjà vu cet homme sur le blog The Kooples Warren Guetta est jeune parisien, aussi occupé au cinéma et à la photographie. Il est comédien, photographe, réalisateur de film court.

De plus, comme Warren le dit, il est fou de sa copine Margaux avec laquelle il vit, dort, mange et travaille sur tous ses projets.

 

Warren avec Margaux

Julie: Je suis très curieuse dans savoir plus au sujet de ton premier film LOL!

Warren: LOL fut mon premier film, ça a été une expérience fantastique! J‘avais à l‘époque 18 ans et j‘ai beaucoup appris sur ce film, aussi bien humainement qu‘artistiquement... D‘avoir le privilège d‘être sur un tournage et de ressentir l‘ambiance qu‘il y a sur un plateau. Je pense  que ce tournage à vriament conforté  mes choix professionelles. Je me suis dit ok. Je ne sais pas si c‘est devant ou derriere une camera que je veux être plus tard, mais je sais que je travaillerais dans l‘image d‘une maniere ou d‘une autre.

Julie: Quelle est ta collaboration avec The Kooples?

Warren: Ma collaboration avec The Kooples fut pour moi un premier pas dans la blogosphére, car même si pour le blog de Margaux ( The Killing Moon) nous prenions souvent les photos et réalisions les vidéos ensemble. C‘est avec le blog The Kooples que j‘ai vraiment découvert toute la construction d‘un blog, son évolution au fil des mois et le travail minutieux que cela demandé tout les jours et ça a été très excitant, car tu sais  très bien qu‘il y a un nombre infini de blog et que même si les gens aime ton travail aujourd‘hui, ils peuvent se lasser demain et zapper sur un autre blog. C‘est toute la force et difficulté  de ce livre géant qu‘est Internet. C‘est donc pour ça que tu dois de remettre en question tout les jours et surprendre.

Julie: Et qu‘est-ce que tu peux dire sur le nouveau projet Jumeaux Singuliers?

Warren: Comme je te le disais nous devons surprendre tout les jours, et nous nous sommes rendu compte que grace au blog the kooples nous avions fait nos armes, et nous avions envie de prendre notre envol de manière complètement indepéndante. Et c‘est donc sous le nom des " JUMEAUX SINGULIERS" que Margaux et moi évoluéront désormais en tant que vidéaste. Nous avions besoin d‘avoir une liberté, pour réaliser les projets qui nous tienne vraiment a  coeur, comme réaliser des courts métrages et pouvoir être ouvert à de  nouveaux projets. Notre site est d‘ailleurs en construction mais nous avons une page Facebook sur laquelle vous pouvez nous retrouver.

Décrive-toi en trois mots...  Curieux, reveur, passioné.

Ma philosophie de vie est... Rien n‘arrive par hasard.

Mes ambitions sont...  De réaliser un long métrage avec Margaux.

Mon récemment moment le plus fabuleux... Lorsqu‘avec Margaux nous avons tourné trois nuits d‘affilées dans Paris pour notre dernière vidéo pour le blog The Kooples. C‘était un autre Paris que nous découvrions. C‘était assez fou de voir un Paris nocturne si desert et si silencieux.

La ou je ne suis pas très bon ... Écrire. Je ne sais pas vraiment si je suis mauvais la dedans mais c‘est une chose qui me parait vraiment difficile. Et ce n‘est pas l‘envie qui manque.

Mais mon talent caché est... J‘ai découvert depuis peu que je n‘étais pas un si mauvais cuisinier que ça. Enfin quand je mis met vraiment.

Merci beaucoup pour l‘interview et bonne chance à vous deux!

Rupert James

Talented British filmmaker Rupert James, currently working out of the Thai capital, writes and directs sometimes curious, oftentimes dark, always powerfully-charged documentaries and commercials that somehow hint at hope amongst the despair. I spoke to him last week.

Rupert James

Do you as a director have a vision?

Darkness – both visually and thematically – features a lot in my work, largely, though paradoxically, because of its illuminating power. Visually, darkness helps to underscore details, to place focus on elements of significance in the frame; while thematically it's through darkness that I see the extent of the nature and truth of the human condition and in this torment and desperation perhaps at least to some degree hope – even if it's distant or only conspicuous by its absence.

In fact, darkness is, undeniably our starting point. Just as a painter starts with a blank canvas, I believe that as a filmmaker one starts similarly with a canvas of sorts, though of course itʼs black rather than white – traditionally, unexposed celluloid film, nowadays an empty flash card and editing timeline. The theatre itself, too, the near-pitch dark in which the audience watches the film, is an extension of that empty frame. And thatʼs further cause for the auteur being circumspect with the ‘marksʼ s/he makes as itʼs between the darkness and the intermittent beams of projected light, sometimes bright sometimes dim, that the filmmaker touches the audience emotionally.

Can you give some examples of this process?

The first marks I tend to make on the ʻcanvasʼ are often in fact not visual but actually audio –

largely because I believe itʼs through sound specifically that we leave a vital, visceral impression on an audience. Audio sets the tone; everything else serves the audio. Indeed, the publicity surrounding the arrival of cinema in the 1920s often described the form as being ʻradio with picturesʼ. And that still holds true. My editor in LA takes it one step further: “Picture is possibly even tertiary, ideas not images being secondary to audio.”

With Mourning Glory the first element laid down was early morning birdsong – although the sound isnʼt apparent until the instrumental passage end of the title sequence over a minute into the

piece – struck I was by the hint of the very celebration of the existence of life in a space that was so devoid of humanity.

And how many days was the Mourning Glory shoot?

After shooting political demonstrations and soldiers for nearly two months I decided to use footage from just the last two days, as after witnessing the aftermath of what was essentially civil war everything else Iʼd witnessed seemed irrelevant and had to hit the cutting room floor. It can be a tough decision but often the best decision if you want your message to be singleminded is to, as they say, ʻkill your babiesʼ. (There are, interestingly enough, possibly several other films to be made from the dailies I have from the project.)

MOURNING GLORY SHOTS:

What motivates you?

Iʼm moved by inequalities, by the struggle of the underdog, by the many grave miscarriages of justice of our world. I strive to show not poverty porn, but the extremity of circumstances, the human condition, all its anguish and sorrow, with an occasional glimpse of hope. Truth is important to me, but not fly-on-the-wall truth as is found with Direct Cinema, as itʼs often deceptive. A vérité approach with specific framing or even a recreation of the truth, I believe often presents a more authentic account of an event as opposed to just rolling camera. Whatever approach you take, there are significant decisions that will be made that will effect the final viewed content: when you turn the camera on, when you turn the camera off, where you place the camera – these are all editorial calls – not to mention actual cuts, shot sequencing, choice of music and the like. There is no such thing as a purely candid film – not one that anyone would watch. I believe even though itʼs typified by coverage of actual, real events, documentary must still be fashioned within the realm of drama. And if drama is uncertainty combined with anticipation, one must take this license to retell the story – if only to serve or honour the truth.

What about your style?

I donʼt care much for style; whatʼs paramount to my work is tone. What I strive to reproduce is an honest, coherent statement that is tonally poignant. In talking about Kubrick, Scorsese points out the beauty of his work is in his achievement of sentiment without being sentimental. That sums it up for me. I attempt to charge my work with emotional power, whilst not overcranking the thing so it becomes twee or trite.

Thank you very much for the interview.

Mats Kahlstrom

21 years old Sweden-based freelancer photographer Mats Kahlström, currently studying civil engineering at Luleå University of Technology, says that he has always had a pretty creative side. Since he was little he liked to work with his hands, to realize all ideas.
Mats joins Get Busy Living blog and shows his stunning shots.

Mats Kahlström

Mats: Another side of me loves sports, especially those giving a bit of adrenaline when doing them. I used to skateboard a lot, riding moutainbike and skiing. When my younger brother got sponsors riding BMX I took up my camera and merged together these two interests of mine. Photography became a way to express myself and show others the joy and thrill I got while doing what I love to do.

Julie: Studying and shooting. Which one of these two fields is more interesting to you?
Mats: I would say I am equally interested in both studying and taking photos. The two work very well hand in hand as my studies has a very theoretical focus whilst photography is very practical. And both photography and engineering are two very creative fields.

Julie: Sports photography dominates on your portfolio. What inspires you to shoot people doing sports?
Mats: I love the lifestyle and the technical difficulties that come with shooting sports. It’s all about revealing everything in just a split second of time. That is not very easy.

Julie: Do you shoot only in Sweden?
Mats: I shoot mainly in Sweden but i’ve been abroad aswell shooting. My latest trip was when I went to Estonia to shoot the Simpel Session competition two months ago. That was a blast!

Want to see more? http://www.matskahlstrom.se/

Fiona Brice

One of the most unforgettable things about her is how she concentrates on playing violin on stage and promoting a wonderful sound. What is more, her charming look definitely captivates.

Being an extremely talented musician, Fiona Brice is a busy person, but, as she said, not too busy to answer some questions. So it is such a pleasure that this super talented lady shares her thoughts with us.

Fiona Brice, photo by Gabrielle Motola

Fiona, I‘m curious to know what musicians you have worked with earlier and are working now?

As a freelance writer and performer I have worked with a huge number of different artists. I have written string arrangements on over thirty albums to date and I have toured and recorded with many other bands. I have known Brian and Stefan for many years and they have seen me play with several different artists during my career, so I was flattered when they invited me to tour and be a little more involved with Placebo. Recently I’ve also loved working with John Grant. He has the most amazing voice. I wrote and recorded the strings for his debut solo album “Queen of Denmark” (Album of the Year 2010 - Mojo magazine). I also enjoy working with Patrick Wolf. His talent is under-rated. His new album “Lupercalia” comes out this month and I can’t wait to hear the finished tracks. It’s the second album we’ve worked on together. I’ve also recently completed string arrangements and recordings for Ed Laurie, Sandy Dillon and Thai songwriter and filmstar Krissada Terrence (from the band “Pru”). I work a lot!
 

Could you tell something about your new album ‘‘The Separate‘‘ which will be released this year? Will we hear only you playing solo or also collaborating with other artists?
“The Separate” is essentially a covers album: twelve well-known songs arranged for string quartet and featuring guest vocalists. Actually I don’t play violin on it at all! I conducted the quartet in the studio. But what is interesting about this album is that it showcases the rhythmic and emotional power of a string quartet, and also demonstrates that a song can be totally transformed when you change the instrumentation. The quartet IS the band. It is dark and filmic in places. I’m particularly pleased with “West End Girls” (Pet Shop Boys) sung by Brian Molko, and “Close to Me” (The Cure) sung by Mark Lanegan. Other guests include Martha Wainwright, Joan as Policewoman, Stephanie Dosen, Patrick Wolf, Ed Harcourt. This album should be available on iTunes this May. 

Photo by Gabrielle Motola

Some words about your involvement in Placebo. I think you were like a fresh gust of wind for the band! How did you start working together?
As I said, I have known Brian and Stefan and also Steve (Hewitt) from the early days, we used to meet at gigs and parties in London. We have a lot of friends in common. Brian and I performed together very briefly on tour with “Trash Palace”, then Placebo approached me to write strings on the “Meds” album. After that I worked on Stefan’s “Hotel Persona” album and then they called me again for “Battle for the Sun”. It has been a gradual coming-together and it is great to write and tour with friends.

What are your feelings concerning the performance at Angkor Wat in Cambodia? If I understand well, it was your first live act with Placebo.
Yes this was my first live gig with Placebo. I was nervous but excited. We had rehearsed in London so I felt confident that I knew what I was doing, but it was a unique occasion and we all wanted to make it special. The gig was totally magical and unforgettable. It felt like every gig I had ever done, every TV show, every shitty club and big stadium, had somehow prepared me for that evening. Actually I think the Angkor Wat versions of the songs are really great and I’m happy it was filmed! Like with “The Separate”, this performance proves that if you have good enough songs you can change the arrangements and the line-up and they sound amazing all over again.

Live at Reading Festival 2009, photo by Justin Brice

How do you feel after touring about 1,5 year? Are you missing anything from this Battle For The Sun tour?
I loved the tour and I miss my tour family! I miss Nick, I have no one to insult at breakfast now.

And the last question, can we expect you playing on the next Placebo’s album?
I hope to be involved! But let’s wait and see...

In conclusion to this cordial interview, I‘d like to say a huge THANK YOU to Fiona and also send her best regards to sunny Texas where she is staying now. 

Jake Giles Netter

I have a surprise for you. And even not a musical one. It's time for photography! I'd like to present you an amazing photographer Jake Giles Netter from California. He is smart, creative and inspiring. Jake's shots are charming. The world must know about him!
Enjoy this meaningful interview.

Jake, introduce yourself!

Hello world. My name is Jake Giles Netter. I’m 24 years of age and I am a photographic gun for hire. I am currently residing in Taichung, Taiwan for the time being, but am a California boy through and through.

Jake Giles Netter

When did you become interested in photography?

I became interested in photography at a very early age. Some of my earliest memories of my mother were of her with a camera in hand. The same with my grandmother as a matter of fact. Both were extremely passionate about photography, but neither ended up pursuing it, my mother becoming a model, and my grandmother starting a school of all things. Photography has always been in my bloodlines, but I am the first to really tackle it as a profession.

I became passionate about photography however in high school when I was 16. I up to that point had only really taken photography classes as throw-away electives, and wasn’t really one to take school seriously in general, let alone any classes where I was being told how to be creative. I was pretty much a normal uninspired semi-apathetic teen in high school in that respect. When I was 16 however, after recently transfering schools, I walked into a new photography class and noticed a poster on the teacher’s wall of Man Ray’s famous shot of “Larmes Tears”, and my entire view of photography and art was changed forever.

"Larmes Tears" by Man Ray

The subtle beauty of that shot, and just the emotion that it made me feel was unlike anything I had ever gotten from art in general before. I stared at that poster every single day that year, starting out each and every class,

and the fire was lit. I became an obsessive scholar of photography, devouring every photographic book I could get my hands on. Trying to figure out each photographer’s eye. Trying to psychologically evaluate (for lack of a better phrase) each photographer. Trying to figure out why each photographer shot in the style that they did, why they chose certain perspectives over others. I began studying the lives of the classic photographers, Helmut Newton, Mary Ellen Mark, Henri Cartier-Bresson, W. Eugene Smith, etc. and tried to relate what they experienced in their lives to their views of the world, and the ways that they shot and the ways that they chose to express themselves in their photography. I learned far more about my craft and how to take pictures by my own obsessive photographic consumption than I ever did in school (unfortunately).

Third question, very short one, why photography?

Quite simply it’s the only thing that I am really passionate that I am good at! Haha. Unfortunately. I am obsessed with music, but I can’t play anything. I used to write a lot, and wanted to be a screenwriter, but I never found the pen (at least in my own hands) to be as effective of a weapon than the single image. There’s something about the act of telling a story with a single image that intrigues me  (and drives me a little fucking mad at the same time.)

If I‘m right, photography is not only your passion, but also a job, too?

Photography at the moment does pay my bills. I am currently dabbling a bit in the field of videography though, testing it out with the current project I am working on, but photography is truelly my passion.

Even before I was able to do it as my profession though I was always shooting (which is the best advice I can give to anyone wanting to go into this business. I happened to hit a period where I became somewhat disenfranchised with the photography business, and just got caught up in the frustrations of being an “up-and-coming” freelance photographer, and became inspired to just go out and keep shooting (while holding odd jobs in the interim) instead of directly pursuing it as a profession. This period of disenfranchisement however inspired my “Children of the Golden State” project (www.childrenofthegoldenstate.com), and if anything gave me an outlet to further push my photography into various realms of experimentation that the business doesn’t naturally allow you to explore. The worst thing in my opinion that anyone could do pursuing photography, or pursuing anything for that matter, is to really attack the dream before you have really figured out who you yourself are, or what makes your photography your own. I have seen way too many truelly talented photographers chase it too early and get caught up in the fold, or get chewed up and spit out before their chance is really afforded them for that specific reason.

What are you doing when you‘re not taking photos?

I am either surfing, travelling, listening to music, seeing live shows, or managing bands. I am an obsessive vinyl collector (or have been addicted for the last 2 years at least). I have a serious problem in that sense. The fact that there aren’t any respectable record shops in Taichung however is really helping me work on my addiction. I also have a serious problem with collecting cameras. They don’t even always have to be functional. There’s something I find very interesting about owning a camera that used to belong to some other unknown faceless party. I love the fact that you have no way of knowing the brilliance that may have come out of that camera before you laid your hands on it. There’s a subtle beauty to that that inspires me.

Which forms of photography do you like the most? Why?

That’s a hard question to answer. I have been afforded the luxury of having been able to work in many different factions of photography so that’s a difficult one to nail on the head. I love people however. People in general inspire me more than anything. I am a true believer in the notion of photography being able to steal one’s souls (if you approach it correctly). For that reason I would say impromptu portraiture based photography/street photography would be my favorite. Shot on film of course.

Where and what was the most exciting shoot for you?

By far the most exciting shoot I have ever done was last year’s Matador at 21 festival. I was lucky enough to have been chosen to be their head photographer at that event and was given an all access pass and it just happened to be a whirlwind weekend. 25+ bands in 3 days/nights in Las Vegas at the fucking Palms, with various open bars, and most of the nights of shows not ending until 4 or 5 in the morning at a once in a lifetime event. If I could pinpoint any weekend that could have shaved a few years off of my life expectancy it was probably that weekend. There was something unreal about being onstage with Sonic Youth and Pavement taking their pictures. I can also thank that festival for getting me my first piece in the LA Times which was a childhood dream of mine. That whole experience was very special to me. You can check out my full coverage from that event at http://www.flickr.com/photos/matadorat21/.

A good photographer is.. ?

Versatile, and able to approach each shoot, project, show, what have you with the humility to know that they know absolutely nothing. Each experience you have and are afforded to be able to shoot is and will always be different. It’s the photographers that never get too comfortable that always seem to be the greatest. That’s why I have soo much respect for war photographers. They are the most literal examples of this. If they get too comfortable during any shoot, they die. I feel that to be the case in any gig however (but obviously not in as literal a sense).

Do you collaborate with other photographers?

I am a huge proponent of constantly collaborating with other photographers. I love nothing more than working with other people on projects. Every photographer has their own eye, and sees situations, people, objects, places, etc. differently. I love that. Nearly every assistant I use on my personal shoots as well are up-and-coming photographers who I have mutual respect for and collaborate with. I’d say everything I shoot (minus live shows) are a collaboration of some sort though. With the models I shoot with. With the artist’s I profile. With the stylists I work with. Everything is steeped in an air of collaboration.

So now you are tripping through Asia. Could you tell more about this journey? For what occasion you went there? What countries you‘ve already visited? Where  are you staying now? Finally, what are you doing there?

All I can say is that this is a hell of a journey. I am currently living and working throughout Asia, shooting behind-the-scenes stills on Ang Lee’s new movie, “Life of Pi” as well as filming the making-of documentary of said film on my 7d. I have so far worked in India and Taiwan (which I am currently residing/stuck in) on this film, but having been taking every chance that I can get to explore while I am “Lost in Asia”. I have only really been able to stray away to Singapore for a brief period outside of the countries I have been working, which was in itself a trip and a half, but am looking forward to travelling to Tokyo and Hong Kong in the near future whenever I can spare a weekend.

Are you missing California? What are your plans when you‘re back?

I am thoroughly missing California, but I am beyond thankful that I have been given this oppurtunity, and am making the most of it. I have experienced so much in such a short amount of time while out here that I don’t really know what it will be like, or what I will be like for that matter when I return. My eyes have been soo opened by everything that I have seen that it’s all pretty hard to fathom. I do miss my family a lot though. And my dog. I really miss my dog! (Thanks Ma for taking care of him, if you ever read this).

My plans are all pretty much up in the air when I make it back. I had the luxury of throwing all of my belongings in storage before I left so I am no longer constrained to a specific locale when I return. I may move up to San Francisco for some time. I may move out to New York for a period. I may just move to Venice Beach. I may keep travelling. I may even go on tour. Who knows?

I do plan however on attempting to finish my Children of the Golden State project in the near future, and continuing to expand my artist collective I am working on, We Are the Wolves at Your Door (www.wolvesatyourdoor.com) and to further explore videography. Whatever the case may be, I am excited for the future.

In conclusion, this is the first interview I have ever been asked to do. I hope it didn’t suck, and I didn’t ramble too much! I am truelly honoured to have been asked to be interviewed and to be a part of the content on this awesome blog. Thank you again, Miss Julie!

Keep Shooting.

-Jake Giles Netter

Jake's shots:

Thank you so much, Jake! I'm glad to know you and hope that in the nearest future we can organise some really great shoots together! 

Davide Arneodo

Without any doubt I'm lucky to have an opportunity to interview people who are doing all kind of fascinating things for living. The more busy or famous they are, the more approachable they are.

Davide Arneodo, super talented Italian musician, playing in two bands and currently touring, was nice enough to find time in his busy schedule for an interview.  About music, of course!



Davide Arneodo, photo by Nicola Garzetti

Davide: Music is a part of my life. I've been always fond of music since I was a child. My mother told me that when I was in her belly, every time there was music in the air, I danced in there... My father used to play violin and guitar at home and listened to a lot of LPs like: Bob Dylan, U2, Brian Eno, Lou Reed and many other great artists.

My musical taste has gone through many different phases. Firstly, ten years ago, I loved rock music and I used to dress in a little studded jacket, but I changed radically when I joined the Academy of Music. After that I only loved classical music.

I like learning and playing various instruments. I was studying violin as well as piano, percussions, guitar and all other instruments that came to my hands.

Julie: Are you playing all these instruments now?

Davide: I'm playing violin, keyboards, guitars, mandolin and drums on stage right now.

I'm very lucky to be an endorser for "Gibson" and "Moog", I love the "Moog Little Phatty" and "Mandobird" from "Gibson".

They are incredible instruments. Like children: so little but with a great voice!

Julie: So when exactly you started touring and playing on stages?

Davide: My musical life is very complex...I started playing live 13 years ago. When I was 18 I joined my first international tour. After that New Trolls, one of the most important Italian band, called me and asked me to tour with them when I was 20.

But the big step up came with L'Aura, an Italian singer who records with Sony Music. She asked me to record her album "Demian", she loved my sound...

Julie: Let's talk about your bands. I know you play now in VOV and Marlene Kuntz.

Davide: Yes, my musical energy is divided between VOV and Marlene Kuntz at the moment, but my heart is in VOV.

Julie: You play in VOV together with Marta Mattalia.

When did you start this band? Was it your idea?

Davide: I met Marta a long time ago, we were really young, but VOV was actually born only three years ago after many attempts. We've always been attracted to art in general and music was our last focal point.

For us it was the perfect conjunction of our expressions.



VOV band, photo by Nicola Garzetti

Julie: What does the title VOV mean?

Davide: VOV is cool, is very short and easy to remember!

Every time Marta and I went to any club and saw a drink named VOV we were so facinated by this logo...

After that we discovered that the letter V represents the female and the letter O - the male.

It was perfect!

Julie: Do you tour through Europe with Marta?

Davide: No, we actually do tour in Italy so far, but I think more and more that VOV should start touring Europe or USA.

I see more curiosity and freshness outside Italy, more mental ability to understand a new project and to let it grow.

VOV music:

http://www.vimeo.com/19060992

Julie: Have you already recorded any albums?

Davide: We have not recorded any albums yet. We have released VOV, an Ep in 500 signed copies and it is only available in our store:

http://www.lastanzaviola.bigcartel.com/

We are working now on a new stuff that we have recorded in London with Steve Forrest from Placebo.

I really hope that we will get a chance to release a great album!

Julie: Could you tell more about this project?

Davide: We recorded some songs with Dario Dendi, an Italian producer that works in London and, as he had recorded the last single of Placebo, we asked him if Steve Forrest would like to play with us on some tracks.

Steve was enthusiastic about the idea so we met in London on his birthday - the day after we were in the studio working with him.

I think he has captured the true spirit of these songs. He's a great musician.

The project is called "Amarsi a Gomorra" and is made of three songs about "Gomorra" by Roberto Saviano.

VOV together with Dario Dendi and Steve Forrest in the studio. Check it out:

http://www.vimeo.com/18754489

Julie: And now some questions about Marlene Kuntz. I noticed, this band was created in 1987 - quite a long time ago. When did you join them and why?

Davide: Marlene Kuntz was born 20 years ago and, as well as Afterhours, is the most important rock band in Italy.

I joined them in 2007 because I played with the drummer of the band and worked with their producer on another musical project. They were looking for someone who could arrange and play live all the instruments they were using in their recording at that time. Now I know that they have studied me for one year before making a decision and telling me that I was in the band.

Julie: What instruments do you play in this band? Do you sing?

Davide: Now on stage I'm playing violin, mandobird, keyboards, percussion and I sing a lot. It looks difficult but I have a lot of fun!

Davide, photo by Nicola Garzetti

Julie: How long you'll be touring with Marlene Kuntz?

Davide: I will be touring all year with MK for the last album "Ricoveri virtuali e sexy solitudini" produced by Howie B.

It was a great experience to work with him! He has a crazy and non conventional way to work that helped me to keep my mind open...

Julie: And the last question! To which band are you more partial?

Davide: Music is my life so when I play I feel alive, but VOV is my real artistic expression so I will do everything to realize it!

Davide, I wish you good luck doing your best and thank you for the sincere interview!