For the first time in Bangkok, Ananta Kama presents the photographic work of a new rising star in the world of photography with work published in prestigious publications such as Vogue International and GQ Magazine.
“I met Eric Dutocq, the gallery owner, through a friend who introduced me to him. It took us five minutes to talk and be convinced to organise an exhibition in Bangkok. We decided to do it in September and my first exhibition in Asia is here today,” says Frederic Monceau.
“I strongly believe in spontaneity and passion, in enthusiasm. I think that passion drives my work. Passion is indeed a strong factor to attract people around you. I reflect it in my vision of photography,” he explains.
Monceau’s exhibition is called “Vision” (until 31 January 2020), a word that does not only reflect the way the young photographer looks at his models, at the aesthetics or message behind each picture but also at his own projection in the future. “My photographic work is developed in a way that I can project myself in 25 or 30 years from now and take this Bangkok exhibition as part of my life,” he adds.
The exhibition shows 21 black and white portraits of models. They were all but two created especially for this exhibition.
The purity of the pictures, the sharp contrasts, the falling light, the refined aesthetics in each movement, the intense gaze of his models evocative of classical fashion photographers such as Helmut Newton or Richard Avedon. “I do not deny their influences on my work. Working in black and white gives my work a sense of timelessness,” says Frederic.
“Exhibiting Frederic Monceau to Bangkok public is almost a historical moment for my art gallery. Until now, I used to welcome only contemporary Thai artists. I want to open the Bangkok art world to more international artists and I hope also to highlight artists close to LGBTQ communities,” adds Eric Dutocq, the owner of Ananta Kama Art Gallery Bangkok.
Bangkok is the first step for Frederic Monceau who sees the city as a gateway to reach a large Asian public. “I think that Bangkok is the right place. It’s at the crossroads of cultures and movements from China, India and the rest of Southeast Asia,” describes the young photographer.
“I would love to also explore more of this city. I dream to visit the elephants’ camps and take pictures of the animals, to practice spirituality here, to take pictures of people, to get to know the locals. Each new destination changes us and teaches us more about ourselves. And as I always think about the future, I just met a 10-year old Thai boy that I took pictures of. I already think of coming every year to take a picture of him. And organise an exhibition of him in 20 years’ time!”
