the muse in private spaces

In Shahnavaz’s new book ‘Aleko’, the photographer captures the muse in private spaces. The result is an intimate look at women in interiors, and a reflection on the concept of closeness versus special vicinity. Kate Eringer discuss the upcoming project with Rosaline. And enjoy exclusive photos out of the book here on C-Heads.

Could you talk us through your artistic process until this point?
My process has always been quite straight forward, and reflective of myself. I was first drawn to photography by photographing people and places I knew well. It was the trust and the closeness of the relationships that allowed me to get such intimate shots. I still do this when I’m photographing anyone. I’ll spend as much time as I can getting to know my subjects. With my personal work, the slower pace and natural progression allows for this. I can take my time and the relationship can flourish. I still do the same with my commissioned work but it’s at a faster pace. You meet so many people along the way.

What is your latest project?
I was asked to photograph a girl in the nude by a client and Aleko, who I’d met through a friend, sprung to mind. As soon as I first met Aleko I was completely compelled by her odd mannerisms and kitten-like stare. She was so lovely and interesting. She said she wouldn’t pose nude but I didn’t mind and wanted to photograph her anyway. I asked her if we could meet up more often to take photographs and she said yes. I photographed Aleko over the span of a year. We met up regularly and spent our time doing nothing and everything together. She wouldn’t mind if I came over as she was waking up, and we’d happily chat and take photos whilst she showered. The photographs are a documentation of Aleko through my eyes. But they are also about our relationship as photographer and photographer’s subject. I find it fascinating how photography can initiate relationships full of trust and intimacy. It’s always bringing new people through my doors.

What drew you to making a book for this project?
I always saw this project as a book. The photographs are personal and intimate, and the book form allows for the photographs to be viewed this way. It’s classic and calm, and the sequencing feels right when they’re taken over a span of time. Each book is hand made and comes with a print on the cover too, making them all unique.

What are your thoughts on the artist/subject dynamic?
It’s great. We’re all compelled by people for different reasons. It’s definitely a two-way thing. All of my subjects have been intrigued by what I’m doing too, and why I’m doing it. Aleko always asks to see prints and we spoke loads about the project together. It’s a good relationship to have when it works well. I make sure my subjects are really involved.

Do you feel differently towards Aleko, if you were to compare from the start of the book and now?
Definitely. The project has formed a strong relationship. It almost feels routine to meet up and take photos. Even though the book is finished, I can see us still meeting up and taking photos.

Talk us through your opinions on the ‘muse’ as concept.
I’ve always had my muses. It’s incredible to meet someone who inspires you and you can have a great working relationship with. Especially when they feel the same way. It’s fascinating seeing my muses transform from when we first met. They become so confident in themselves when they’re with me. They are so aware of their beauty and their power that they become comfortable with doing anything with you. They trust you a lot and it’s something that happens over time when they see you bringing the best out of them.

What are your thoughts on being a female photographer, shooting a female subject? Do you think this affects the images?
Definitely. I can feel a difference in how my subjects are even on shoots where I have a male assistant. I also feel like there are a lot of photographs I couldn’t have taken if I wasn’t female, they’d just seem too sexual or inappropriate. They’d be read differently.

What is your ideal environment to shoot?
I’m not sure if I have an ideal environment. I love adventures and journeys. It would be cool to go on a road trip with a bunch of people and document that.

What music should we be listening to, while we read Aleko?
Just Like Honey – The Jesus and the Mary Chain

My use of the word read – do you believe photography books are read or looked at? Is there a difference?
I could read a photograph for hours. But I can also look. It depends really. I guess when I really like something and I really want to take it in, I can spend hours looking at it and I depict elements that make the bigger picture and also the questions the photograph is asking.

Where do you gain reference from?
Everywhere. I feel like there is influence everywhere whether it’s in galleries, books, museums, instagram… we’re surrounded by a constant streams of culture. I’m always saving stuff I love online.

What advice would you have for a younger photographer?
Work hard, do what you believe in and gives things a chance.

What’s next for you?
The book is launching in the next month! Aleko can be ordered by mail