Tranquility in a Sunday Morning
Photographer: Melissa Sanchez
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
I was introduced to all the Star Wars films growing up thanks to my dad, but I believe at the age of 9, my parents took me to see Star Wars Episode 1: The Phantom Menace. It was then I realized how much I loved costumes and film. Every film I would watch after I would run to the credits and the videos that showed behind the scenes. I tried to piece together how much work it takes to create a film. After the viewing of the Episode 1, I was completely mesmerized by the idea of creating galactic worlds through clothing, the way each garment gave life to the characters, I was hooked. Since I was so young, I knew if I could not create films, I can still create stories through photography. That day, as soon as the film ended, my younger cousins came over to our home, I grabbed some towels and manipulated the towels on them enough to create a Jedi silhouette and pinned them with a safety pin. I wanted to copy and bring a little piece of the Star Wars in front of my eyes, I realized I did not need fancy equipment to create a world, all I needed was my imagination and the resources I already had.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
When I was 20, I had the idea of creating a photoshoot about a post-apocalyptic world. I asked my younger sister to go on a walk with me and to bring our family dog, a schnauzer name Morocco. It was wintertime, close to nighttime, the canal near our house was completely dry and we snuck into the canal. I gave her my long black coat to wear which overtook her entire body, I had her stand in the middle of this empty canal with trash everywhere and when I asked her to face away from the camera, her side profile created an eerie atmosphere. Morocco was part of the shoot as well. One of my favorite shoots until this day. So quick and simple, I managed to captivate a very strange, very Constantine like photo created within 5 minutes from my house and around 20 minutes total. I enjoy creating photoshoots with natural backdrops, I am not fond of studios because it limits you to one space, for editorials I love shooting outside, preferably early morning.
3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?
Each Photoshoot I have shot for primarily has been for my vintage shop that I run on my own. I’ve had many challenges because I wear many hats, from recruiting models, training models, being the photographer, editing, sourcing clothes, being the stylist; it can cause one to become uninspired rather quickly. What I have learned throughout the years is to plan and work a little each day to reach the end goal, write down your plans and execute slowly but surely daily. Surround yourself with individuals who you respect and admire, we tend to surround ourselves with humans who dim our light and that causes problems in not only our own life but our creative one as well. Another tip I learned along the way was to not care if others approve or not, there is no right way to create art, it just is. I was very self-cautious about releasing photos that may not reach enough eyes, or not receive enough likes. In the end it does not matter, your social media currently is a resume, post whatever work you like, you never know who is watching.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
My favorite question so far, I simply admire women, I must thank my mom for that, I always think of my mother and how much of strong force she is in our family. Each picture I take I put thought into what a powerful woman looks like through my eyes, femininity is power. Being in a feminine state creates power in everything we touch. Women have the capability of creating life, that alone is remarkable. Women and my love for vintage clothing have perfectly meshed to create the world where women rule all until the end of time. We are power. All the models I work with, I let them know this is a photoshoot in which they are in power, and I guide them to find the perfect angle to create the perfect shot. I base most photoshoots on certain moods, films and colors surrounding women. I believe that sets me apart because I am not only showcasing clothing but also a story, a brief film.
5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?
I am currently working on owning a brick-and-mortar vintage store in my city of Fresno, CA, while also creating a safe space for models to showcase their talent. I believe in frosting a harmonious environment that embraces feminine energy. The forthcoming vintage store is poised to become a hub for fashion enthusiasts and creatives alike, offering a carefully curated selection of timeless pieces that reflect Leshawl Vintage. My focus is to create a meaningful impact within the community and beyond, through my dedication of supporting emerging talent and fostering a sense of empowerment. I consider it my duty to empower individuals to shine in the spotlight. I am embracing the limitless possibilities that lie ahead. My ambition and passion for storytelling through the lens will continue until the end of time. One last goal would be to shoot a Halloween editorial for Vogue as a stylist and photographer. With that being said, I would also like to acknowledge the unwavering support of my family and my beloved fiancé, who have been pillars of strength throughout my creative endeavors.
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The calmness women transmit, curates a world where peace and happiness blossom, when women unite, they are unstoppable.
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Wardrobe Stylist: Selina Poulsen
Model: India Day
Model: Sofia Zepeda
Wardrobe Stylist/Creative Director/Photographer/Retoucher: Melissa Sanchez