Minted x PBteen

What's the story behind your "Wave Patterns" photograph?

I took this photograph in Turks and Caicos. I was amazed by the water and how clear it was and how shallow it could be far from the shore. I took this photo when the sun was shining and the light was creating these subtle webbed patterns on the surface of the water.

Who is your favorite artist?

One of my favorite artists is German photographer Wolfgang Tillmans. I love his ability to capture everyday moments that have an otherworldly feel and beauty to them, like his still lifes of fruit, hanging clothing, folded paper, and portraits.

Where and what inspires you when you are creating art?

I'm drawn to quiet spaces and vast environments in nature. I am often traveling back to Iceland to explore different areas and other parts of Scandinavia, including Lapland in Sweden and Faroe Islands. I also like shooting in the time period just before night sets in—it has this quiet and anticipatory feeling where things are barely visible and have this ethereal quality. It is also fun to shoot at this time because the light is quickly changing the forms before you, and you need to work fast. For my next project, I hope to travel to Chile or New Zealand to photograph the stars and night sky.

What is your advice for artists who are just getting started?

To work whenever you have your most productive energy. If you're a morning person, try to wake up a little earlier to do work, and if you're a night owl, try to stay up a little later.