ART | Local artist Lauren Bamford

lauren bamford

Years ago I came across a fabulous Melbourne photographer via a series called “Locals”. I’ve always been drawn to artworks that are a little bit quirky so seeing a beautiful arrangement of Australian natives in a beer can definitely ticked that box. I first contacted Lauren in 2014 and six years later I still love this series!

Lauren Bamford is a local Melbourne artist who has worked on some incredible projects with a variety of brands and businesses. I also found out she did the photography for one of my favourite cafes Hardware Society in Melbourne, nice surprise! She also sells prints of some of her works. I caught up with her to hear a little more about what drives her as an artist.

What got you into photography in the beginning?

My love of photography was born in high school, after an art class found me in the darkroom. The old cliche of the magic of the printing process is what got me hooked, and was encouraged by my father who had always been a hobby photographer. We built a darkroom at home together when I was 14.

What has been one of your favourite projects so far and why?

I have shot a couple of cookbooks in Italy, for Emiko Davies and Hardie Grant. To be on location, immersed in the culture of another country, creating work and forging friendships, it is a dream come true.

Do you have any other creative hobbies?

At the moment, I don't! I am so busy with work and home life (I'm mum to a 2 year old), so all other hobbies have taken a back seat. However I dabble in sewing, and went through an obsessive pottery phase a number of years back.

Where do you find your inspiration from?

I get a lot of inspiration from travel. It doesn't have to be across the seas, or to anywhere glamourous - I just like to experience new environments as much as possible. Another source is film (TV, Movies) - I try to create cinematic lighting in my photographs, so take endless mental notes from the silver screen.

Are there any particular photographic projects you are dreaming of?

At the moment I am dreaming about all of the photographic projects that were planned for 2020, that are now unfortunately on the back burner. There were a couple of documentary shoots abroad, for an American client, that I was really looking forward to. Any opportunity to wander a new city with a camera is very much welcomed.

What is your most and least favourite part of being a photographer?

My favourite part is the variety of work that comes my way - no week is the same. When shooting reportage etc, you get to see behind the scenes and have access to places, people and experiences that the average person doesn't get.

My least favourite part is relying so much on good weather here in Melbourne! A lot of location shoots rely on sunshine, and when you are trying to coordinate peoples schedules, project deadlines and the weather - it creates a lot of pressure!

Thanks to Lauren for taking the time to give me an insight into her practice. Finding this connection with an artist and their work is one of the best ways to make sure you are buying a work you will love for a long time to come.

Keen to know more? Check out my Workshop page to register for the Art for interiors workshop or message me an image of your wall on instagram for some assistance with your art selections.