HUGH LIPPE

HUGH LIPPE (19) was born and raised in Texas. His roots are very recognizable when you look at his raw, cinematic photos which document gonzo road trips, girls gone wild, patriotism and other American stereotypes.
It leaves us with a sense of hunger,where we anxiously want to discover this free caring world of sin.
His work has been exhibited in galleries in New York, and in several fashion magazines.

Who are you and what do you do?
My name is Hugh, an artist, although most work of mine that surfaces are just the photographs taken
How did you start your career?
I began by taking basic photography classes at CCCC (Collin County Community College) to stay sane will doing my undergrad basics.
Painting supplies had become too expensive and the photographic process was exciting.
What were your first projects/ideas?
The first cohesive project came together for my undergrad thesis project at ‘Art School’ titled “Girls on Hoods From Inside Out”; it was my compromise with an extreme liberal arts program.
They didn’t take kindly to objectifying women and glorifying hot rods, so I set up these scenarios where I would photograph the process of making one of these ‘girlie’ calendars, shoot it dark and expose bits of equipment here and there while shooting ‘real women’ sexing it up against automobiles. The outcome was awkward and surreal.
What kind of project are you working on now?
I’m currently working on a project called “East”. Basically I’m shooting a majority in the Northeast US. I’ve always been Bias toward the NE being raised in Texas, but after marrying my Sweetie from Maine, she opened my eyes to the possibilities found through out the North East.
It is still resembles rural America but with an older sophistication,
New England erodes just the same.
I find it more challenging to capture, it’s not as literal as the Horizon line is out West.
Do you see life in greater detail than others?
I don’t know about that…? I know I often at stare at ‘nothing’ and think deep thoughts, maybe it’s just anxiety… : )
Have you worked with other artists or photographers?
For sure, I have worked with many talented and many untalented, enough to learn that talent plays a small part of becoming financially successful
Who or what influenced you?
All the great masters, those who lived on the edge back when Photography was a still considered a medium. Those great people who had the science aspect down but pushed a vision beyond what was conventional amongst their colleagues.
Mostly those folks with multiple books, thick books filled with lots of pictures.
What music do you listen to while working?
It all depends on the mood or what the subject requires.
I do feel Music and photography go hand in hand and have not met anyone who argues otherwise.
Music is a powerful thing and can easily dictate ones emotions and affect the outcome of the photograph.
Name a few people that you would love to work with?

There are so many talented people out there… where to start… I have learned one thing; a strong team (talent, hair, makeup, styling) means everything!
I have been so fortunate to work with some really great people.
I would love to work with Carine Roitfeld, she is ‘Fuck Off’. Consistent, Period.
What projects have you done that you are most proud of?
The portraits I’ve shot of people through out Texas and the Midwest touch me somehow, I truly love them.
Who were your favorite projects or clients?
I recently worked for a high-end denim company by the name of PRPS (Purpose).
They were super cool. I love working with denim companies, I find them to be more open to my ideal scenarios.
Although I have yet to shoot any couture, I love the edge and ambiguity that is projected within the market.
Where did you grow up and what was it like?
I grew up in a small town outside of Dallas. It was confused by the suburban sprawl of Dallas and the influence of the local lake and everything that comes with a manmade body of water that size.
I get anxiety just trying to elaborate on that… very stereotypical.
Any movie , book or music album that we need to check out??
I just read “Bright Shiny Morning” by James Frey; his portrayal of LA is impeccable.
What would be your dream project?

Pirelli Calendar.

Where do you find inspiration?

The bookstore, Amateur Photos of the web and often ideas come to me late at night when I can’t fall asleep
What has been your favorite artwork until now?
Richard Avedon’s ‘American West’, the prints are masterpieces, he was truly one of a kind.

Future goals?
Momentum, upon momentum with out any compromise

Famous last words?

It’s a small world.

more information about Hugh lippe:
www.hughlippe.com