Mob Journal

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Walk in Montmartre

Photographer: Romain Martinez

1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?

My studies in Montreal had a profound impact on me, as I was confronted with a vision of the world that was different from the French West Indies, where I grew up. This cultural duality has enriched my artistic perspective, blending Caribbean and North American influences.

2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?

During the “1+1=11” shoot, I discovered that working in a large group requires rigorous organization, but that this dynamic allows for unparalleled creativity. The more minds meet, the more ideas flow, creating a unique energy and unexpected results.

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?

The Ancré.e.s exhibition pushed my creative boundaries by seeking to make tattooing interesting while capturing the most natural faces to reflect the personality and history of my models. I discovered the importance of introspective work in photography, as well as the therapeutic side that it could have for some. The in-depth discussions with my models taught me how to better reveal their authenticity. Taking the photos on film allowed me to connect more with them, making the process even more meaningful. These two intense days from 9am to 8pm also taught me the rigor and endurance necessary to carry out such a project.

4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?

What makes my work unique is my way of mixing fashion and street. I love creating contrasts: ultra-fashionable poses in banal streets, where everyday life becomes an unexpected setting. I add touches of color and moments of life that make each image lively and authentic.

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?

My main goal is to live 100% from photography. More concretely, I dream of seeing one of my campaigns displayed in 4x5m in the streets of Paris. I also want to collaborate with people as passionate as me, who share the love of photography and art in general.