Ik Willem #1 Feb. 2016 | Page 12

poetic eroticism What characterizes your work? A woman’s body has so much grace. A woman can be the most innocent thing, but also one of the most sensual things. I like to play with these two pieces of information in my images. It could be a screenshot from a romantic movie, or a slightly naughty self portret of the girl next door. What have you learned from the Willem de Kooning academy so far? I’ve been studying since one and a half years ago. During this time I have learned to look beyond myself. Especially my fellow students, who are very creative, ambitious and have their own way of thinking, inspire me in new ways. How and where do you find your limits? I cross my boundaries by reflecting on my own work. Romance can be sweet and innocent, but incredibly steamy, sensual and exciting, too. By combining these two aspects in one image, I create a tension curve between sensuality and innocence. It’s always a challenge for myself to seek and push this boundary. What is your ultimate life goal? A life long of shooting photographs in a country where it is always summer, surrounded by the sweetest people and more than enough wine for everyone.