András Ladocsi is a Hungarian Photographer and Visual Artist who explores the fluid essence of humans and the interconnectedness of our existence in a sensitive and poetic manner.
Can you share with us your journey into photography? When and how did you first pick up a camera? What subjects or scenes were you most drawn to?
During high school, I was enrolled in a class focused on biology and chemistry; however, most of my friends were part of the art class. Influenced by them, I began to explore photography, documenting graffiti found on streets, trains, and within abandoned buildings, among other places. Subsequently, a project initiated with my sister led me to the realization that this was a field I wanted to explore more in the future.
Before university, I attended a preparatory school specializing in photography, where I was introduced to the world of analogue photography, spending all my days in the darkroom. Later, while pursuing my BA at the Moholy-Nagy University of Art in Budapest, I experimented extensively with both digital and analogue photography. From the beginning, my primary focus remained on smaller groups, primarily my friends and other willing contributors, to bring my ideas to life.
Your project “There is a big river, in which there is a big island, in which there is a lake, in which there is an island, in which there is a small house, where a life is growing in a womb” is truly captivating. Can you explain the story behind it and what inspired you to embark on it?
My current project focuses on an exploration of the relationship between a person and their environment. It is an examination of our interconnectedness within a shared space and a study of how individual actions and behaviors are shaped by collective influences. The water depicted in my work—rivers, lakes, and islands—serves both as a literal and metaphorical representation of the fluid essence within each of us. The pursuit to explore within is a consistent theme in my work, unraveling the ties between the human body and the natural environment and exploring one’s profound essence in the process.
My creations focus on the profound realms of human existence and the influential aura of our surrounding environment, portraying our enduring connectedness, regardless of the distances or the isolation we experience. This mutual connection and the experience thereof are unique, yet universally recognized. I aspire to highlight the intensity and resilience inherent in the human spirit, as presented in moments of pushing our physical and mental boundaries to achieve our utmost potential. At its core, my work is a homage to life and the woven interconnectedness of our mutual existence.
I perceive this project not as a premeditated concept but as something that flowed naturally to me, compelling exploration to its fullest extent—an ongoing exploration.
While there are several other projects that I am concurrently working on, this particular one intrigues me the most, explaining my continued dedication and work on it.
The portraits you take are very intimate and personal. How do you approach and establish this trust with the individuals you photograph?
I may not have an exact response on how or why I approach things the way I approach them, but I believe that with my genuine curiosity, I can reach others, help build trust, and lead a shared moment through photography.
You made the decision to move from London to Paris. How has the transition influenced your work, and what are your thoughts on the Parisian art scene?
Currently I’m in Paris, and while it’s all very new to me, I’m not sure if my experiences can serve as a reference for others. Nevertheless, I’ve been enjoying my time here immensely. Paris reminds me of Budapest, where I’m from, but it has a more diverse and lively energy that I find fantastic. The art scene is bustling and exciting, with so much happening. I’m currently searching for a good language school to pick up French quickly. My language skills aren’t stellar, but I’m giving it my all.
You are going to start a lecturer position at the Moholy-Nagy University of Art and Design in Budapest. What do you hope to convey to your students?
Yes, I’m teaching at MOME. I’ve held three classes so far and it’s been a great experience. Our discussions often revolve around the student’s interests and how best to emphasize their ideas. While I’m not certain that I can “teach” them in the traditional sense, I’m there to support and guide them with the knowledge and experience I have. I imagine our classroom as a playground, much like a kindergarten, equipped with an expansive toolbox. Together, we determine the ideal tools required for each project.
Your projects can be seen as controversial in your home country Hungary. How do you view the role of photography in commenting on or influencing societal narratives or political dimensions?
Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to be present and engaged. The existing political climate continues to build huge barriers that appear almost impossible to destroy. However, the art scene has been producing increasingly impactful exhibitions and performances in recent months. This gives hope for even bolder and more courageous projects in the future.
Dance seems to be a recurring theme, especially in your video projects. Can you speak about your connection or relationship to dance and how it has influenced your work?
Dance has been a part of our existence since the beginning, hasn’t it? There were times when I felt embarrassed or hesitant to dance, even though I’ve always had a deep love for it. I often danced when I was alone at home or with close friends. As I delved deeper into photography and experimental music, I began to connect more profoundly with the therapeutic essence of dance.
You’re currently in the process of publishing a book based on your project, “There is a big river, in which there is a big island, in which there is a lake, in which there is an island, in which there is a small house, where a life is growing in a womb.” Could you share some details about the journey so far and where things stand right now?
It’s coming closer, but I’m not in a hurry. Everything will fall into place as it’s meant to in the end.