In 2016, Julien Mauve won the Professional Conceptual category of the Sony World Photography Awards with his hugely successful series, 'Greetings from Mars'. His work has been awarded by several prizes, including the SFR Jeunes Talents (France) in 2013 as well as his win in the Sony World Photography Awards. He has published two books together with Poursuite Edition: L'Indifférence Des Étoiles (2016) and Titanic Orchestra (2017).
Hi Julien, please introduce yourself and tell us a little about your photography
I am a visual artist based in Paris, creating cinematographic and narrative photography series dealing with human interactions and conditions. Silence, vacuity, darkness, and solitude put in perspective with the rise of new technologies are recurring themes in my different projects.
Why photography? What does the medium mean to you?
I like the idea to freeze time and I like the imagination that surrounds every photograph. Due to their personal experiences, people will react differently in front of the same picture which makes it really interesting.
Remind us of your successful series 'Greetings from Mars'. What has been the reaction to the work since your win?
'Greetings From Mars' has quickly become one of my most popular works so far. It has been received really well by the public and the Sony World Photography Awards in 2016 brought a lot more of attention. I have done several covers of international magazines and books and have been published and a lot of websites and social networks since then.
Do you have a photographic philosophy?
I try to share feelings and emotions with my photographs. I like the fact that people will talk about it or ask questions.
What has been your most memorable shoot or location?
In terms of planned shooting, the Grand Canyon picture was amazing.
I'm in Paris right now. I just came back from South Korea and heading again to Japan in a few month to pursue my next project.
julienmauve.com
worldphoto.org/swpa
