Inspiration Feeder: Nik Mirus

Our “Inspiration Feeder” presents to you short interviews with interesting visual artists from around the globe. Today in focus: Nik Mirus.

How old are you?

38 years old.

Where do you come from?

I grew up in Winnipeg, a small central Canadian city and moved moved to Montreal to study photography when I was in my early 20’s. Montreal has a very vibrant creative community and has many opportunities for photographers. I’ve been here ever since.

How long have you been doing photography?

I’ve been interested in photography for about 20 years. Like many people who become interested in photography, I was given an old 35mm manual camera when I was 17 or 18. I played around with that for a few years before I decided to pursue it more seriously.

How would you define your style?

I would define my style as being bold, clean, graphic and calculated. I like taking my time when I make pictures. I like studio work, building sets and experimenting with lighting . I have always enjoyed working with my hands and the act of constructing things. This interest has had a defining influence on my photographic style and the way I approach photography.

How long do you think it took you to find your personal style of shooting?

My personal style of shooting has been evolving ever since I started taking pictures. Over the years, my tastes and interests have varied. Originally, I was drawn to the documentary aspects of photography. Later, I became interested in portraiture when I was studying photography in school. It wasn’t until more recently that became drawn to studio based still life work. It’s the type of photography that I find suits my personality the best. There’s a quietness to this type of work that I appreciate. One needs to be patient. As for developing my ‘style’ or ‘look’, this is something that has been in constant developement. I strive to produce work that is unique to me, but I am very open to experimenting and exploring new techniques and approaches to photography

What would you say is the thing that most inspires you? / What is your main source of inspiration?

What would you say is the thing that most inspires you? / What is your main source of inspiration?I am the most inspired when I am in the act of constructing. Oddly enough, I find that I get a lot of my ideas for pictures when I am working on a particular project. One idea leads to another and another. A chain reaction occurs and creativity flows. I also get inspired by things, objects or scenes that I pass by daily. I’m currently, working on a series of pictures inspired by the Montreal Subway Stations that I frequent. A mix of both observing my environment and actively working with my hands is is what fuels my work.