Laurin Strele: The Austrian Travel Photographer
Congratulations to Laurin Strele for earning his place as a Winner in the Boynes Monthly Art Award [November Edition]!
Who are you?
I'm Laurin Strele, a 31-year-old travel photographer originally from Austria and currently based in Dubai. I have a profound passion for capturing portraits and exploring the diversity of our world through my lens. My work delves into various cultures, conflicts, and religions, aiming to evolve into a photojournalist.
Photography
By Laurin Strele
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO UTILIZE photography AS A MEDIUM?
My innate curiosity and quest to comprehend diverse circumstances led me to photography. It's a medium that beautifully communicates without words, allowing me to convey stories and emotions visually.
How would you describe your ARTwork?
My artwork revolves around people and their everyday lives, emphasizing the similarities and differences among us. I aim to showcase the multifaceted nature of our world, focusing on the nuances of cultures and the human experience.
Photography
By Laurin Strele
Can you discuss the inspiration and thought process behind your winning work?
"Generational Trust," my winning artwork, encapsulates a tender moment captured spontaneously during my travels in Ethiopia. It portrays the fragile yet profound connection between a blind grandfather relying on the guidance of his grandson. The photo symbolizes reliance, trust, and the intergenerational bond.
“Generational Trust”
Photography
By Laurin Strele
What do you hope to communicate to an audience with your work?
Through my work, I aspire to raise awareness about the incredible diversity of our world and provoke contemplation about life's intricacies. I aim to spark conversations about global differences and similarities, fostering a deeper understanding of our shared humanity.
Can you talk about your biggest learning experience during the process of creating your work?
Photography is an ongoing learning process. One significant lesson was understanding that failure is intrinsic to growth. Embracing mistakes and continuous practice are crucial for improvement.
Photography
By Laurin Strele
Can you discuss your biggest success since starting your artistic journey?
One of the most fulfilling successes on my artistic journey has been the expansion of my audience on an international scale. Witnessing people express how they felt deeply touched or moved by my photographs has been incredibly rewarding. Knowing that my work has resonated with individuals across borders and cultures is immensely fulfilling and motivates me to continue capturing meaningful stories through my lens.
Can you give us a piece of advice you wish you had known at the start of your career?
The best advice I received was to explore beyond comfort zones. Venturing into unfamiliar, even uncomfortable territories often yields the most profound inspiration and storytelling material.
Photography
By Laurin Strele
What projects are you working on currently? Can you discuss them?
I'm planning upcoming trips to Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Myanmar, and India. Additionally, there might be a photobook release next year, encapsulating my recent photographic journeys.
What is your dream project or piece you hope to accomplish?
My dream project involves delving into more sensitive topics like conflicts, wars, and significant global events. I aspire to document these narratives through my lens, fostering deeper understanding and empathy.
Photography
By Laurin Strele
As a winner, do you have any advice for artists who want to submit to awards, competitions, residencies, etc.?
Don't solely measure your worth by accolades or followers. Seek competitions aligned with your artistic vision and submit your work thoughtfully. Emphasize quality over quantity.
Photography
By Laurin Strele