ICP Member Spotlight: Q&A with Angela Wang
What first brought you to ICP, and why did you decide to become a member?
I am interested in delving deeper into images and participating in a dialogue with other photographers about the role of images in storytelling, politics, and humanitarian affairs. A FOCUS ICP membership provides “insider access” to photo exhibitions, workshops, and special events that give me an opportunity to experience photography as an interdisciplinary subject.
What has been your favorite ICP moment?
My favorite ICP moment was attending the private tour of Sebastião Salgado’s Genesis. The exhibition alone was incredible! Salgado’s chiaroscuro palette of black-and-white images was not only breathtaking, but also served as a reminder of the importance of protecting our environment. The fact that it was a private tour made the experience even more meaningful. The curator spoke with us about Salgado’s life as a photographer and the treacherous journeys he took to capture the beauty of nature, animals, and indigenous peoples.
Do you take photographs? If so, what type of photographs? And what inspires you?
I love the challenge of taking photos of people in an urban environment—especially locals that I encounter while traveling around the world. I was lucky enough to travel to five countries last year. My DSLR camera accompanied me on long walks while I studied my surroundings before capturing the perfect shot.
Whenever I am in search of inspiration, I turn to independent films. Plenty of movies have spectacular cinematography, like Federico Fellini’s 8 1/2 and Pawel Pawlikowski’s Ida. If you can find a really good film, the framing, the colors, and the overall feel can inspire you to come up with amazing images.
If you could meet a photographer, who would it be and why?
I am a big fan of Jamie Beck. Her From Me to You Tumblr photography blog is what got me interested in photography in the first place. I am inspired by Jamie’s ability to capture elegant images filled with emotion.
What inspires you to want to become more involved with photography? What do you love about taking photographs?
Learning how to shoot was a creative rebirth for me. I am not an artist by trade, but I had music and art training growing up, and I have always wanted to incorporate creativity into my life: professionally and personally. I love the energy and the creative thinking behind taking photos. It serves as mental relief for me—a kind of freedom that takes me to my imaginary world.
View Angela’s photography portfolio.
