Matthew Willman reflects on lifelong passion
The local photographer, acclaimed for his visually powerful work with Nelson Mandela, has released a selection of his most memorable photographs taken in the past 22 years.
CELEBRATED Kloof documentary photographer and author, Matthew Willman, presents a collective of more than 280 images in his latest book, 22 Years. The Highway Mail caught up with Matthew to find out more about this extraordinary visual account of his lifelong passion.
The cover is completely unexpected. What is the reason behind the cover choice for your collective work?
I needed an image that embodied a theme of being a myriad of stories and images. The image I took in Cologne Cathedral in Germany was a perfect fit with the colours and blocks of glass rectangles.
Why have you chosen to release a book of collective works now after 22 years of working in the industry?
I felt the timing was perfect in my life to do my first retrospective. In many ways to close a chapter and celebrate what has been explored and achieved with an eye on what’s to come.
How many images did you have to flip through before you settled on the ones published in the book?
One word: thousands
How many images are in the book? And how did you choose how much of your work you would showcase, without turning it into a 1 000-page body of work?
A few images short of 300 are in the book. I focussed on diversity of topic rather than pretty pictures. When I held that thought throughout my focus was always there. Diversity is more important than bulk. Diversity ensures the richness of each image.
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Is there a mental process you go through before you embark on a shoot, whether it is with a president, a sports personality or your Average Joe?
Not really. It’s more about having an imagination for what you are about to shoot (create images in your mind first) and to then allow yourself the flexibility to work under conditions you can’t control so as always to have a plan no matter what.
You have travelled the globe and have been exposed to many different cultures and mindsets, is there one place where you have not been but would still like to go and experience?
I’ve worked in 49 countries, there are still over 120 more out there so definitely no stopping now. Shoots on the horizon in terms of places would definitely be life around volcanoes in the South Pacific … that would be a great one actually!
Who, besides the late Nelson Mandela, have you enjoyed photographing the most?
Annie Lennox and the 88 ballet dancers from around the world. I love my dancers. I spent the past five years working with 10 ballet companies, representing 42 nations for my book on ballet, Private Space.
If there is one person you would love to photograph, who is it and why?
Donald Trump for sure. Definitely a winner in terms of character. I’m a bit late for Queen Elizabeth ll. But never say never.
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What is next for Matthew Willman?
Too much, I’m booked up for the next five years on projects, shoots, books, touring – all doing what I do best.
You recently spoke at Thomas More College’s speech day, and gave a thought-provoking and empowering speech, how does it feel to be able to impart that sort of information on to the youth?
That was one heck of a good night. Such a great group of matrics. I don’t think any of them remember what I said after I pulled a few strings with Trevor Noah! I take nothing for granted. I’m accountable for everything I say. Speaking publicly is a privilege. I’m trying not to teach but rather to share experiences and from out those stories I hopefully am able to strike cords with those I engage with.
What would you say to someone, young or old, that has an absolute passion for photography but doesn’t feel they are able to take that leap of faith to pursue their dream?
The greatest photographers are those interested in things. Photography or the camera becomes merely the tool they use to get to those places, to engage with communities or individuals vastly different or akin to one’s own world. Don’t strive for perfect photos strive rather to create images that hold an emotion, keep people’s attention. Most importantly shoot over and over, develop your skill through practice.
The book is available exclusively at www.matthewwillman.co.za/books/ for R350 per copy.
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