John Evans
Studio
ASH SUUDY
How would you describe yourself in three words?
Creative, optimistic and loving.
What inspires you?
There is inspiration everywhere. I tend to watch a lot of movies. (maybe too much!) Whilst watching a film, I may take inspiration from a particular colour palette, a prop, lighting or simply a feeling I felt while watching. An idea will always come naturally and should never be forced. Being asked by others "what's next?" doesn't pressure me. If an idea or inspiration comes, it will come and should not be rushed.
What are your thoughts on the creative scene in Cardiff?
When I started to delve into photography, it really opened my eyes to the ever growing scene in the creative community here. I for sure was blinded by the opportunities that are out there in
Cardiff and always felt like going elsewhere would aid in my creativity. I started to see more creatives showcasing their work and a strong community starting to build. A community I'm happy to be a part of!
Do you have a favourite quote?
I don't have a favourite quote but recently a quote has really stuck with me. I went to see 'Jojo Rabbit' (dir. Takea Waititi) in cinema and it concluded with a beautiful quote "Let everything happen to you: beauty and terror. Just keep going. No feeling is final." - Rainer Maria Rilke.
How did you get into photography?
In 2018 I was studying a heavily demanding healthcare course (which I dropped out of!) and had the urge to do something on the side to escape my studies. My brother gave me a point andshoot film camera - it pretty much grew from there. Simply catching candid moments with friends and family.
Tell me more about your photographic practice?
I shoot with film. Upgraded from a simple point and shoot camera to a 35mm film camera. I struggled with film at the start and still do as I do feel that there is new things to learn. Nothing worse than a blank roll!
Why is being creative important in today's society?
Creative is one's self expression, it should not be repressed but expressed. Society is starting to embrace one's creativity and originality.
Any advice for people wanting to go into photography?
I was always in doubts for how I wanted my photography to start. One day, I sat down and planned a series that pushed me to go out everyday. That series was 'East In Colour' and it strongly resonated to me as well as others. And then that became the narrative that I wanted to express within my work. Think about the narrative, feeling or story you want to tell in your work.
What do you hope to achieve with your work in the future?
I hope to continue to learn, grow and become more confident in the field of photography and storytelling. Simple.
