Of course, there will always be those who look only at technique, who ask 'how', while others of a more curious nature will ask 'why'. Personally, I have always preferred inspiration to information.

- Man Ray

My practice views art as a body that includes genres, mediums, and forms. For me, there are no divisions or strict genres, which is why I identify myself as both a formalistic and non-formalistic photographer. While I acknowledge that categorizing art into genres can help with understanding, I believe that storytelling should not be confined to any single form or medium.

I see every form of art as unique, offering its own distinct experience. By blending different mediums, I create richer and more impactful stories. I compare this approach to what cinema achieves today, where combining various elements elevates the final output to a whole new level. I experiment with ideas like poetic photography, where visuals and poetry merge seamlessly, and photography poetic, which blurs the line between photography and poetic expression. I believe similar approaches can be applied to painting and other forms of expression.

For me, genres and forms are merely mediums to express ideas. What truly matters is the final creation—the story or work that effectively conveys emotions. I believe every story and every emotion is unique, and this belief inspires me to connect with people, understand their lives, and their experiences.

Using an ethnographical approach, I delve into people’s stories, cultures, and traditions to understand their true essence. My journey is driven by a deep desire to explore, experience, and learn more, and I am committed to continuing this journey for as long as I can. My practices embrace interdisciplinary approaches, allowing me to experiment with various forms of expression and to create deeper connections between the work and the communities I engage with.

Biography

Born in 2000 and currently based in Uttarakhand, India, Vijay completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from Himalayan University, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, with a specialization in documentary photography. He worked with the Forest of Life Fellowship program at Azim Premji University, Bangalore, with more than two years of field practice in documentary and travel photography.

Vijay’s expertise extends to sports photography, where he showcased his skills at the National Games in Goa, India. He gained professional experience working on diverse projects in commercial and fine art photography during his time with Sepia Advertising Pvt. Ltd. As the founding member of Fabula magazine, he continues to contribute to the field of photography. Additionally, at Photontology Art Center in Himachal Pradesh, he worked as a storytelling photographer and visual artist, leading experimental visual projects, conducting interdisciplinary research, and curating exhibitions and educational initiatives that integrate photography with other art forms.

Artist statement