When I first discovered Marissa Alper’s photography on instagram, I was fascinated by the youthful energy that she captures in her work. In this age the concept of youth has always been an obsession of mine. When viewed through another artists eyes a story emerges. I got in contact with Marissa and learned more about her process and the importance of her subjects in her work.
Introduce yourself. Why are you drawn to photography?
My name is Marissa and I’m an 18 year old artist from Maryland, USA.
I am drawn to the freedom that comes along with photography and art in general. It is the way I express myself and relate to others. I am able to channel mine and my subjects’ emotions into photographs in a way that I can only express visually.
In today’s digital age, you prefer to shoot film. Why?
Film has such a beautiful aesthetic to it. The rawness really works with the nostalgia I try to convey in my photographs. Since there are a limited number of photos on each roll, and I can’t view or erase them like I could with digital, I am forced to think thoroughly about each picture I take. All the effort that goes into film gives me a sense of accomplishment and closeness to my work.
Youth is a common theme in your work, what do you hope to convey in your photographs about the current culture?
I hope to convey the ephemeral nature of youth; how difficult it can be but also how quickly it passes. As a young person, it is so easy to be influenced by society. I capture how teens handle the pressure they experience.
Do you have a favorite subject or muse that inspires you? If so, who?
Since my theme aims to capture adolescence, my friends make perfect subjects.
My mind is constantly searching for photographs to take especially when I’m with them. Their general energy and the way they interact inspire me.
If you could give advice to someone starting to get into photography, what would you tell them?
Just shoot what makes you happy. Don’t limit yourself to one subject or worry about what others will think of your work. This is your creative outlet and your way to express yourself. Fake confidence until you actually feel confident.
Aside from photography, what else are you into? Favorite movies or music?
I also paint, but aside from fine art, I love listening to music. My favorite bands are The Strokes, JC & the Voidz, Pixies, Nirvana, Crystal Castles, Beach House, and so many others. I do a lot of exploring with my friends so I also love poking around abandoned buildings and adventuring in the woods. My favorite movies would have to be Spirited Away, What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, Pan’s Labyrinth, and Stoker.
1 comment
When I saw your interview and experienced your remarkable photography, I was struck by the maturity and unique insights revealed in the photographs themselves. What insights dothey provide? They stimulate a plethora of interpretations for an onlooker and, like so many other works of art, offer multiple opportunities in which to experience life itself. Is this not what art is supposed to be about? Obviously, you know this already, at the ripe old age of eighteen! Congratulations! With love from an admirer,