Q&A
Sean Wyatt has produced a series of self-portraits that were inspired by his childhood memories. Acting out a kind of performance, Wyatt is depicting his relationship towards these objects and surroundings and exploring how this has changed from his youth to now.
What initially got you interested in photography?
I don’t really remember a specific thing or time when I realised I was interested in photography. However I do remember my Nan always telling me off for wasting her film. So maybe I pursued a career in photography just to spite her. Although im pretty sure I would have studied photography anyway.
Have you studied photography?
Yes, I first started my photographic education in A-Levels. After getting remarkably terrible in both Art and Photography (a D and an E), I managed to get myself an Interview at Oxford Brookes to do an Art and Design Foundation course. After successfully convincing them I wasn’t a complete waste of time, they gave me a place on the course. Brookes was where I decided to fully commit to photography. Finishing at Brookes, I got myself into Kingston University, and am just coming to the end of my course now.
What were your processes in taking these images?
Taking these images involved a lot of running backwards and forwards from camera, to position and striking a pose, whilst trying to listen out for the quiet beeps of the self-timer and hoping I had made my position in time.
What were your reasons behind this body of work?
To explore the relationships between myself and my local surroundings, and how it has changed over time.
Do you feel that through taking these images you learnt more about yourself?
Definitely! I think I learn more about myself with every photograph I take. Especially when they are self-portraits and autobiographical.
Are ‘self-portraits’ an area of photography that you visit often?
I have visited the area of self-portraiture a few times. I think it is important for any artist to practice self-portraiture, as it’s been a tradition for a long time and think it’s beneficial in understanding yourself and your practice.
Who and what are the people/things that inspire you most?
Hmmm, I have always been a huge fan of Francis Bacon. Mostly because of his charisma and presence in front of the camera, in portraits from the likes of John Deakin.
I am also inspired by subtleties and bizarre approaches to things that could be done quite simply, but still resulting in the same thing.
Where do you see yourself in ten years time?
I see myself owning my own gallery dedicated to photography that will show works from young new artists, also its the only way I can be sure that my work will be shown…
And finally, medium-rare or well-done?
Medium-Rare with English Mustard