INTERVIEW
May 17, 2020
CURIOUS BY NATURE
Photography by Felicia Olivares
Interview by Karin Svadlenak Gomez
We are surrounded by unique stories that add a unique flavor to our lives. Everyone has a story to tell us. It could be of joy and sorrow, of struggle and success, of love and loss. We may not always remember these stories, but they remain a part of us - a part of our culture and identity that brings us together as people.
Felicia Olivares has made it her mission to capture the stories of the people and places where they live. Through her work as a photographer, she is able to document the daily activities of people in their social environment, giving us a glimpse into the lives of others in ways we might not have seen before. From capturing the beauty of nature to the hardships of everyday life, Felicia’s lens brings us closer to understanding the diversity of human experiences.
In this interview for The Pictorial List, we will explore the work of Felicia Olivares and learn how she uses photography to capture the stories of people and places around the world. We will also delve into her journey as an artist, and how her passion for people and places has shaped her work. So join us as we take a journey through Felicia’s photography and discover the stories that make us unique.
“Everyone has a story to tell us...we like it more or we like it less. Photography is the magic tool that can capture that unique moment.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH FELICIA OLIVARES
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Felicia, could you please tell us when you first became interested in photography?
FELICIA OLIVARES: When I was a teenager, next to books there was also a camera in my environment, belonging to my older brother. I used to torture my friends by taking pictures of them.
TPL: Where do you find your inspiration?
FO: In real life and in my imagination. I tend to think of situations, places and moments and create scenes that I photograph. I am curious by nature. And above all I enjoy looking at the work of classic photographers from the 1940s, 50s and 60s. I am very interested in their work and life.
TPL: Do you have any favourite artists or photographers you would like to share with us, and the reason for their significance?
FO: As a teenager, the first photographer to impact me the most was Cristina García Rodero. Her photos are magical, like taken from a world I had never seen or imagined. She was the one who marked the beginning. And I started to look for and be interested in other photographers... of course, the founders of Magnum and all the other members who were joining the agency. They brought photography to the street and directly to the lives of ordinary people. I especially love Josef Koudelka and his lifestyle, Bruno Barbey, Martin Parr. And a Spanish photographer that fascinates me, among others, is Carlos Pérez Siquier. But the list is long and almost infinite because also through Instagram I have met impressive photographers.
TPL: Describe your style.
FO: Frankly I don't know if I have my own style, because many topics interest me, and I see and treat every one of them differently. In reality I follow my instinct. Every day is different, and I do not always feel the same. Everything changes all the time.
TPL: Where is your favourite place to photograph?
FO: Always outside, in any place or situation that catches my attention
Curiosity, motivation and observation. See with your own criteria, without prejudice and be relaxed about it.
TPL: What characteristics do you think you need to become a 'good' photographer? What’s your tips or advice for someone in your genre?
FO: Curiosity, motivation and observation. See with your own criteria, without prejudice and be relaxed about it. Even if I don't have the camera with me, I like to look like I have it and I always capture moments. We actually see in slow motion because an instant lasts only tenths of a second and the difficulty is in capturing it.
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the artistic world before photography?
FO: Since I was a child, I drew, painted and designed. Later, in high school, instead of going, - not always - (laugh), I drew the teachers or whatever came to mind (my student books were full of them).
TPL: Do you think equipment is important in achieving your vision in your photography? What would you say to someone just starting out?
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
FO: Bodies and faces of the elderly. that time when the inner age does not correspond to the body, but shows in the eyes. We turn our backs to the elderly and on a life-stage that is full of wisdom and also of great satisfaction. With my photos I want to look at old age with dignity and admiration.
TPL: "If I wasn't photographing what would I be doing...
FO: I would be a gardener and a goldsmith. And always adventurous."
Felicia Olivares has given us an important gift with her photography. Through her lens, we are able to get a glimpse of the lives of individuals and communities that we may not have known before. From the beauty of nature to the struggles of everyday life, Felicia has documented the stories that make us human. Her dedication to capturing the human experience helps us to better understand the diversity of our world. If you want to learn more about Felicia Olivares’ work, take a look at her portfolio for more information.
