Ann Vincent: "I search for ways to use artificial materials to create the illusion of something natural"

Nominated for Futures by FOMU Fotomuseum of Antwerp, Ann Vincent (b. 1994) is a Belgian artist, based in Ghent. In this interview, she talks about her career and inspirations.

Words by

Futures Photography

March 2, 2020

Nominated for Futures by FOMU Fotomuseum of Antwerp, Ann Vincent (b. 1994) is a Belgian artist, based in Ghent.

“I’m constantly searching for ways to use artificial materials to create the illusion of something natural.” In her works, Ann plays a trick on us, and in doing so, touches upon one of photography’s most fundamental properties: its disturbing relationship with reality.

In this interview, she talks about her inspirations and career:

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Can you explain us a little bit about your inspirations? What are the main themes in your practice?

As a part of my work I want to test the make-ability of things. I’m constantly searching for ways to use artificial materials to create the illusion of something natural that resembles my visual memory. For example, a while ago I saw an image of a frozen waterfall, and the shape and colors of the water instantly made me think of solidified wax. That’s when the inspiration starts.

How do you see your relationship with photography? How do you deal with this medium to express your art?

Although I spend most of the time making the scale model, a lot of the credibility depends on how the model is photographed: the lighting, the point of view, the cut-out. It is the final image that can really test human perception, and I’m very intrigued by that. When I’m making the model, I’m concentrated and working straight-forward. But when I start photographing it, the game begins for me. All context disappears and the model becomes a whole new ‘playground’.

How has been the experience of being a talent selected for Futures? How can Futures help with your career?

It is definitely a good way to start showing my work, because this is something I find quite difficult myself. The focus on young artists is very inspiring. I not only get to show my work, but I also get to know other artists.

Can you share with us a little bit about your plans for the future after being part of the platform? Do you have any new project in mind?

To keep creating. Right now, I’m working on two new images, for which i explore aerial views.I will continue to work in the same genre of photography for a bit, because I feel that I have not yet fully investigated it. And who knows what the future holds after that.