Eva Kmentova — juliewang

Eva’s photography is an exquisite blend of the ethereal and the tangible. Each image, meticulously crafted, resonates with strong visual elements. In her work, female models and landscapes often take center stage, wrapped in vintage aesthetics infused with her distinctive artistic sensibilities. With every frame, she unfurls her inner world, allowing her audience a fleeting glimpse into the depths of her thoughts and emotions. Her mastery lies in using each photograph as a canvas to paint the unsung narratives of her life.

Her work is undeniably inspired by the brilliance of Czech photographer František Drtikol, a visionary known for his avant-garde and artistic approach to photography. Have you ever encountered the work of this master's in modern time? It's a unique experience to explore this interview, bridging the timeless artistry of a photography pioneer with the contemporary vision of our featured artist.

Now, let's delve into the enigmatic world of Eva Kmentova, unlocking the stories behind the images.

1.Let's start by discussing your artistic journey. What initially inspired you to pursue photography as a means of creative expression, especially in a vintage style?

I make audiovisual snapshots because many thoughts and emotions take place in my mind, which I process this way. It's sort of a personal diary. For me, photography is not just an expression of the scene unfolding before me, it is an idea that is personal. First it materializes and then I listen to music, looking for sounds that express that feeling inside of me. I choose sounds mostly without words, as I look for the feeling in myself, seeking how to express it in words... Finally comes the visual side. The photograph itself usually emerges in the end... I listen to the music I have chosen, embrace the text capturing my feelings, and then it comes quite naturally to choose two seemingly unrelated photographs, from which I create the collage.

2.Your work intertwines seemingly diverse elements such as people, landscapes, nature, ocean life and architecture. Could you explain how you approach the to the process of combining these elements in your compositions?

My work is about capturing moments. The elements that I integrate are essentially records of my perception of the world and its diversity. I try to find beauty in the moments when reality and dream appear to merge. This way, I aim to show that in everything that surrounds us, there is something that can be perceived with wonder. I create images that reveal not only the physical, but also the intimate connection between deferent aspects of existence.

3.Your works are often characterized by low color saturation, which gives them the stamp of vintage, black and white or color, faded appearance. Can you elaborate on why this aesthetic choice is important in your photographs?

The aesthetic choice of low color saturation, which gives my work a touch of vintage, black and white or faded color, bears a deep personal meaning. It's a way to materialize my thoughts since they do have such an expression, that's how I see them. The aesthetic allows me to convey the feelings and moods I have in mind. Keeping colors to a minimum allows the viewer to focus on the projection of the moment and the emotional impact, rather than visual distractions. Colors are not just the surface; they carry the emotions and atmosphere of the moment. My intention is to express the intention through shades and contrasts, rather than an eccentric spectrum of colors.

4.Many describe your work as something akin to a dream. How do you manage to achieve this dreamlike quality in your photos?

I approach photography with an open heart and mind, without preconceived expectations. Moving moments and unexpected details create the illusion of a dream. I strive to capture the moments when the world seems to gently merge with our inner feelings. Through play with light and shadow, I create space where reality merges with desire. The results are like records of my own world, where the present moment and the inner reflection meet.

5.What is the significance of the artificial aging process in your work, and how does it contribute to the narrative or emotional impact of your photographs?

The process of artificial aging awakens the depth of time in me and transfers the feelings of time into my work. It creates a bridge between the past, the present and the future, opening up space for deferent layers of interpretation and experience. This aesthetic choice allows me to connect today with yesterday and tie the past with the present. With this technique, I strive to create an immersion in each frame, so that the snapshot brings about an emotion.

6.Let's delve into the deeper meaning of your art. What are the core themes or messages you aim to convey through your photography?

My intention is to capture the world as a process of constant transformation: either disintegrating and reassembling or emerging and gradually disappearing. The interest is in the way we see than in presenting ourselves with what is in front of us. Perfection, imperfection, fine detail. Every harmony is temporary, every conflict soon recedes. Rather than a conceptual approach, I choose organic, intuitive and specific objects of the world. I look for perfection in an emotional rather than a technical sense, given its constant change and the calls for re-evaluation. Through the play with textures, light and shadow emerges the poetry of what can sometimes be hidden from view.

7.Can you share your perspective on how photography, as an art form, allows you to express yourself and your inner thoughts in ways that other mediums might not?

For me, photography is not only an art form, but a kind of own language of the soul. Through the lens, I try to communicate when words cannot cut it.

8.What is the driving force or motivation behind your artistic creations? What compels you to continue producing your unique style of photography?

Looking at myself from the inside presents a constantly renewing inspiration. The journey I take in artistic expression allows me to share my personal view of the world and connect with people through my creative work. A desire to express what I cannot describe in words, and to create a connection between my thoughts and those who allow themselves to be addressed by my work.

9.Are there any specific artists, photographers, or historical periods that have had a significant influence on your work?

Among the photographers who influenced my perception, František Drtikol has a special place. His nude photos appeal to me on a deeper level, as does his way of expressing himself. He fascinates me as a creator, but also as a unique human being with his own mystical depths. In my view, it is not only important what works he left, but also how he viewed the world around him.

10.Lastly, where do you see your photography journey taking you in the future? Any upcoming projects or aspirations you'd like to share?

I see the future as an uncharted territory of stories waiting to be told, and I look forward to being their storyteller. In my work, I wish to continue exploring the subtle nuances of human existence and translate them into visual poetry. There are a few secret projects close to my heart, but they will open up their stories as time and light see fit. In my work, I live in the present moment. I hope that my thoughts transferred to my audiovisual work led some people to think and, above all, to feel. So that it is not just a nice picture.

Thanks Eva and please find more her works @eva_kment_

Thank YOU for reading!