Purposely Random
selected works by Jason Travis
Asymmetric Magazine: Tell us about your submission.
Jason Travis: My submission is a varied mix. I’ve included some portraiture, some shots taken with my drone, some exploratory work, a look at my ongoing Persona series, and some shots I took purely for the fun of it.
AM: What's your biggest inspiration?
JT: I find inspiration in my surroundings and those around me. Lately, I’ve been inspired by basketball and sports documentaries. I generally draw inspiration from subject matter outside of the art and design world. I’m constantly looking around me, exploring and experimenting. I moved to Los Angeles just over six months ago, and it's been an all new playground. I’ve met so many new faces and started to explore this huge city a little bit at a time.
AM: What role does LA play in your work?
JT: LA has been a new chapter for me this year. I’ve thought about that question quite a lot lately. Its been a transition from Atlanta and a huge learning experience. I’ve faced new challenges and also had a ton of growth. The attitude, the weather, the landscape–it all plays a part. I’ve taken what I do and what I’ve learned from childhood through adulthood and thrown it on all together with this new experience of living in Los Angeles with so many other creatives. It's been steadfast and refreshing and arduous and rewarding all at once.
AM: What themes do you typically pursue in your work?
JT: I have a background in design and music and that generally always plays a part. I love photographing people and learning from the experience. I pursue color and composition exploration just about everyday. I’m always looking for new ways to express a mood or idea.
AM: How do you conceptualize the environments you create for your portrait work?
JT: Most times, it stems from wanting to try something new. I want to push something further than I had previously. I’m constantly looking at light and shadows. I’m always thinking about what would excite me to see. What could I try that would make the most visually eye popping fantastical image? On the flip side, I’m also looking for poses or environments that feel as natural as possible. Sometimes the marriage of the purposeful and random pair well together because it creates something altogether unique.
AM: What music is currently inspiring you?
JT: Last year leading into this year, I’ve been really into mid-80s era pop music. Music I call “shiny”. Whitney Houston, Phil Collins, Billy Ocean, Midge Ure–to name a few. My bandmate back in Atlanta has always been into that era, but for some reason, I’ve really been diving deep lately. I’ve always loved the 90s and always will–it's my safe place. Nirvana, Dinosaur Jr., The Breeders, Pavement. As far as new records I’ve been listening to, I’ve been enjoying the new Blood Orange, Radiohead, and Diiv albums.
AM: What can we expect to see from you next?
JT: I’ve been busy shooting freelance with many different clients this year. I have some exciting projects coming up in that realm. I’m thankful I've been handed more projects lately that are right up my alley with lots of creative freedom. I also have a personal project I’ve been working on that I plan on sharing soon. It involves my personal journey, and I’m really excited about it! I also hope to get better at shooting hoops!
Jason Travis is an LA-based photographer, videographer, designer and illustrator from Atlanta, GA. You can find more of his work at jasontravisphoto.com.
