In the Studio | Isaac Zoller
Isaac Zoller is a Southern California native whose work embodies the passion for oceanside locales and surf culture. His exploration of new cities in his works coincides with his search for the perfect wave, a constantly moving subject that he captures with a special closeness.
TAPPAN
When did you start calling yourself an artist?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I would say I started calling myself a true artist when I was in photo and art classes in high school. Maybe even middle school. I was always good at drawing at a young age. Before that I think it was still just something I did for fun. I may have called myself an artist as early as preschool but probably didn't understand the real meaning. Anyone can call themselves an artist but to actually be regarded as an artist by other artists is what really matters to me.
TAPPAN
When do you make your best work?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I do me best work when I am traveling and there is no stress from everyday life to hold you back from what you want to shoot or do on that day. When you are in different places you tend to think differently and that inspires me as well.
TAPPAN
Regarding your method of making, is it a case of the material or method dictating the idea of the other way around?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I think when I shoot landscapes and action then that subject is dictating what it is that I'm shooting but I always take framing into account as well as capturing certain moments that excite or interest me. It becomes a subjective process when choosing what to put in front of the lens.
TAPPAN
What are your other hobbies?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I surf as much as possible. Snowboarding in the winter is probably my favorite thing in the world but isn't as simple as driving to the beach to jump in the ocean. I also like to watch new films and travel when I can.
Isaac Zoller's Studio Philosophy:
“I WANT TO KEEP DOCUMENTING THIS GENERATION AND SHOW THE EVOLUTION...”
TAPPAN
Is art making therapeutic for you?
ISAAC ZOLLER
Yes I think that everyone should try a form of creating art as a means of therapy. I think it opens the mind as well as calming it.
TAPPAN
What are you most proud of?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I feel proud simply when people say to me that they like my photography. I think that it's because I never strived to make people like my work. I always shot photos for myself- as a way to record and remember the past times. I also feel Proud to see my photos printed in magazines or hanging on a wall. We tend to get so caught up looking at pictures on our computers and phones that when we look at images that are tangible pieces of art it becomes much more meaningful and important.
TAPPAN
Artist whose career you covet?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I think that I would like to live the life of Basquiat or Warhol. They lived and worked in a very free thinking time and created a world for themselves that was new and fun. It wasn't serious at all and that's what I envy about them.
TAPPAN
What do you see yourself doing in 5 years?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I see myself shooting more photos of surfing and traveling and creating films about the characters within the crazy world we live in. I want to keep documenting this generation and show the evolution of the unique music/surf/art culture.
TAPPAN
If you could travel anywhere to create for a while, where would you go?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I think I would go back to Bali. There are tons of likeminded people there creating and being themselves on a daily basis. Plus the waves are really good and it is a beautiful land and the people are so nice. Either there or maybe Paris since I've never been.
TAPPAN
Did you grow up around other creative people?
ISAAC ZOLLER
Both of my parents are artists at heart and from a young age they thought me to be a free thinker and that it was possible to make a life as an artist. Also a lot of my teachers and friends were very artistic and showed me that there are many roads in life and you can always make your own.
TAPPAN
If you could have a drink with one artist, who would it be?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I would have to say Picasso just because I think he would be the most insightful and outgoing. Who knows though.
TAPPAN
What influences you?
ISAAC ZOLLER
Other photographers and artists influence me everyday to keep creating for myself as well as others.
TAPPAN
What motivates you?
ISAAC ZOLLER
I am motivated by my friends as most of them are living the lives they choose to live and that takes courage to live a life that you genuinely want to.
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