INTERVIEW
May 13, 2020
EVERYDAY EXPLORATIONS
Photography by Vajradhar Acharya
Interview by Melanie Meggs
Vajradhar Acharya is an Indian photographer with a unique eye for the ordinary. From the hustle and bustle of street markets to the tranquility of rural villages, he has sought to capture the beauty of the everyday lives of people across India. Since relocating to the United Kingdom for university studies, Vajradhar has continued to explore his love of photography, creating stunning images that evoke a sense of nostalgia and wonder. Join us as we explore the world of Vajradhar Acharya, as he describes himself - “a lover of good light and a clicker of pictures”.
“I was always a creative person and almost went on to study art professionally. I still love woodworking and painting and they are something that I try to regularly do besides photography, but photography has been my main hobby ever since my dad bought me my first camera for my 15th birthday, six years ago.”
IN CONVERSATION WITH VAJRADHAR ACHARYA
THE PICTORIAL LIST: Vajradhar, describe your style of photographing to us?
VAJRADHAR ACHARYA: I haven't quite managed to get a signature style I can call my own and it is very much in flux at the moment and it does change slightly every day and I look forward to see where it takes me.
TPL: Where is your favourite place(s) to photograph?
VA: I don't have a favourite place because I haven't travelled a lot, but my home town called Miraj in India and South Bank in London have to be on top of my small list!
TPL: Do you have any favourite artists or photographers you would like to share with us, and the reason for their significance?
VA: My favourite artists have to be Edward Hopper, Van Gogh and Saul Leiter and they have influenced my photography the most along with all the numerous artists I follow on Instagram who have impacted my work in one way or another.
I think equipment is important in the sense that it shouldn't hinder your creativity but I find that most modern cameras are pretty good in that regard, so it doesn't matter much.
TPL: Have you ever been involved in the arts before photography?
VA: I have very much been into art since childhood and painting landscapes with oil pastels has been one of my favourite hobbies for a long time now.
TPL: Are there any special projects you are currently working on that you would like to let everyone know about?
VA: The current projects I'm working on are called 'Smoking Kills' which is about normal people looking cool when they smoke but at the same time, alluding to the dangers of the habit and 'People on Phones' which is obviously about people busy with their phones and tries to show our relationship with the ubiquitous gadget.
TPL: “If I wasn't photographing what would I be doing?...
VA: If I hadn't received my first camera 6 years ago, I would very much still be actively involved with woodworking and painting but I'm too busy these days to do either of those and photography is currently my most favoured just because it is much more accessible than either of those.”
Vajradhar Acharya has an unique vision that has enabled him to capture the beauty of everyday life in India and now London. His photographs are full of nostalgia and wonder, and his story provides inspiration for budding photographers everywhere. To experience Vajradhar's work in full, connect with him on Instagram and follow his journey as he continues to showcase the world with an eye for the ordinary.
