The Turquoise Board Project by Odette Bettany
Odette Bettany's Turquoise Board Project celebrates everyday objects found around the home and was initially inspired by the photographer's artistic Grandmother.
After being introduced to the wonderful little project, we thought we would get the talented Odette to shed some further light on the story behind these images, as well as her process.
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Q: When did your passion for photography first bloom?A: I think in high school with art assignments. I use to attend cosplay conventions and take photos of people dressed up in their costumes. Photography is a medium that speaks to me because it can stir emotion within us. It allows you to create your own personal vision. Photography helps me to express myself as an individual.
Q: How would you describe yourself in just 3 words?A: I would describe myself as quirky, imaginative and creative (I am also really funny when you get to know me!)
Q: We understand that your Grandmother is a painter and she was the main inspiration behind your project. Please tell us a little more about this?A: My Grandmother migrated from the UK to NZ many years ago. She was firstly involved in window displays for a large department store before she left England. And an adiverstising illustrator for a newspaper. She then became a Potter of some note in NZ and taught. She has explored most creative mediums. I do believe creativity and the visual eye is genetic as well as learnt. We are a creative family. I grew up drawing with her as a child. My Mother also helps me to explore creatively and she makes creative suggestions.
Q: When choosing objects from your home to photograph for your project, what kinds of objects were you looking for?A: I was looking for everyday objects around the house that I could transform in some way and mix them together in a creative and colourful combination.The turquoise boards were such a great back drop for the items. Luckily my family had an interesting selection of items around the house. An old collection of Matchbox cars, books as my father has a huge collection, even the ice cream photo with my new pink vans. We even got the neighbours cat involved with his paw on one of the boards!
Q: Your Turquoise Board Project is fantastically creative! Overall, what did you want to convey or achieve with your project?A: It gained momentum over summer; it kept me inspired and challenged over the summer uni break. I'd wake up most mornings and think what can I place on the boards today that is unique? I soon discovered that every colour looked amazing against turquoise. I suppose it conveys, I would hope, a summer feel for most of the photos. Sunlight, long hot days, colour, books to read, drinking tea, ice cream....People dont realise that everyday objects if placed or arranged in a way that is unusual and off beat can be beautiful and thought-provoking. I try and look at the world with the eye of an artist. Anyone can!
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We want to thank Odette for taking the time to share her series with us, as well as for answering our interview questions! You can view more colourful and quirky images from the Turquoise Board Project by visiting Odette's Behance. You can also follow Odette on Instagram (@odettebettany). Enjoy!