Interview
Nilangana Banerjee
Introducing Nilangana Banerjee, widely known as Olive in the entertainment world, a distinguished photographer and artist based in Los Angeles, California. Growing up amidst the vibrant tapestry of Mumbai, India, Olive's childhood was steeped in photographs and cameras, igniting a lasting passion for the intricate fusion of science and artistry that defines photography. Embarking on her photographic journey, Olive earned her Bachelor's in Still Photography and Audio-Visual Production in Mumbai. Specializing in Industrial, Architectural, Interior, Portraiture, and Conceptual Fashion/Editorial Photography, she pursued her Masters at Light and Life Academy under the mentorship of the esteemed photographer, Mohammad Iqbal. Seeking further enrichment, Olive secured a coveted spot in the New York Film Academy's Masters of Fine Arts in Photography program, where she excelled, graduating summa cum laude and earning recognition as a notable alumna and ambassador.
Under the guidance of legendary photographers like Ralph Gibson, Aaron Rapoport, Nancy Burson, and David Mager, Olive honed her skills and vision, solidifying her status as a rising star in the photography world. Olive's portfolio has graced the covers and pages of prestigious global publications, including VICE, GOOD HOMES Magazine, MOEVIR Paris, L'ATTIRANCE France, MALVIE France, VOUS Spain, STYLE CRUZ LA, GMARO Paris, MOVEUX Paris, among others, earning her accolades, international acclaim, and respect within the global photography community. She has been featured in interviews and profiles by renowned publications like LA WEEKLY, MEDIUM, TINSELTOWN NEWS NOW, SHOUTOUT LA, ARTIST CLOSE UP, THE ARTPRENEUR, INDIA JOURNAL, NORTH HOLLYWOOD PATCH, LENS Magazine, and VoyageLA, highlighting her burgeoning influence in the photography industry. Olive's work has been exhibited globally, including Photoville in New York in 2017. On the commercial front, she has collaborated with industry giants such as Amazon, Walmart, Forever 21, Urban Outfitters, Target, Hanhoo USA, and Nordstrom, showcasing her versatile skills in fashion/advertising and skincare/beauty photography. Beyond her professional achievements, Olive is a multifaceted artist, indulging in music, painting, and cultural exploration. Her journey stands as a testament to her expertise, creativity, and unwavering passion for the limitless realms of photography and art. Currently, she serves as the In-house Lead Photographer, Art Director, and Head of Creative Productions at HANHOO USA (Comprehensive Sourcing Solutions) in LA, where her artistic vision continues to flourish against the backdrop of California's cultural richness.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“I didn't set out on my journey with the initial goal of becoming a photographer. Coming from a community where photography was predominantly viewed as a pastime and the pursuit of art dismissed as a mere diversion, the idea of venturing into these realms was not on my radar. The desire to express myself through art in any form had been simmering within me since childhood, unnoticed by both myself and those around me. The pressure to conform to conventional educational standards, which emphasized the relentless pursuit of high grades and the competitive ideals of the world, led me to suppress my love for art for an extended period. Creating art, through paintings and pencil sketches, became a secret endeavor relegated to my free time. Dedicating myself to the creation of art seemed like a distant prospect, especially considering the lack of opportunities for art-based subjects. Despite this, my deep affection for photography began to bloom during my high school years. During my childhood, my father had some photography equipment at home, which I would occasionally dabble with. Despite being surrounded by the tools of the trade, my understanding of art was initially confined to what could be produced on paper. It wasn't until after completing high school that I truly recognized photography as the artistic medium capable of bringing my imaginative realms to life.
While I still engage in sketching and painting, photography has now become the primary channel through which I express my creativity, constituting 95% of my artistic expressions. The enduring and timeless essence of photography provided the sanctuary and stability I had always sought. This realization marked the beginning of my unwavering determination to break free from societal expectations that initially pushed me towards conventional careers. Instead, I chose to pursue something I could dedicate my entire life to, discarding the stereotypical beliefs that once confined my aspirations. My professional journey in photography began with a Bachelor of Science degree in Still Photography and Audio-Visual Production in Mumbai. During this period, I discovered my interest in various photography genres, including industrial, architectural, interior, portraiture, and conceptual fashion/editorial photography. Further refining my skills, I pursued my first Master’s degree from Light and Life Academy in India. After completing my Master’s in India, I took on significant projects with renowned entities such as the Taj Group of Hotels, Four Point Sheraton Group of Hotels, and various projects spanning diverse genres both in India and abroad.
Despite gaining substantial exposure in the Indian photography industry, I felt the need to refine my skills and expand my horizons globally. This desire led me to the New York Film Academy, where I pursued a cutting-edge Master of Fine Arts in Photography, securing the prestigious Talent Award Scholarship—an honor bestowed upon less than one percent of international artists. Graduating summa cum laude from the New York Film Academy, I earned recognition as a notable alumna of the school. Since graduating from NYFA in Los Angeles, my expanding portfolio of commercial work has earned acclaim from esteemed photographic institutions and companies such as Amazon, Walmart, Forever 21, Target, Nordstrom, and many others, along with numerous global publications and editorials/magazines.”
What inspires you?
“Throughout my journey, my unwavering source of inspiration, both in the early days and to this day, has been the beauty and essence of nature that surrounds me. I firmly believe that nature, with its myriad elements such as diverse lighting situations across seasons and times of the day, as well as an extensive range of color palettes, serves as the most authentic, instructive guide and an intrinsic mentor for any artist and creative individual. This belief has profoundly shaped my artistic perspective. I have consistently leveraged the dynamic interplay of natural lighting and color palettes as fundamental pillars in optimizing my vision for the majority of my projects. Nature's inherent ability to offer a diverse canvas of hues and illuminations has been central to the conceptualization and execution of my work. In addition to nature, my artistic roots trace back to the rich nuances inherited from both of my parents. Furthermore, I draw inspiration from the works of world-renowned photographers such as Richard Avedon, Tim Walker, Erwin Olaf, Diane Arbus, and Vivian Maier, along with the imaginative storytelling of filmmakers like Tim Burton. These influences collectively serve as a profound wellspring of creativity for me as a photographer, guiding and shaping my artistic journey.”
What themes do you pursue? Is there an underlying message in your work?
“I firmly advocate for the creation of art that goes beyond mere aesthetic appeal, aiming to deliver profound messages to my audience. A substantial portion of my time is dedicated to researching and brainstorming innovative ways to artistically shed light on less discussed yet potent issues often overlooked due to their understated nature. This holds significant importance for me as the subjects addressed in my projects deserve heightened awareness. Upon closer examination, many of my projects, such as "The Selves," delve into the unspoken mental landscapes individuals navigate when grappling with societal ideals imposed upon them without request. These subtle internal struggles often go unnoticed or are dismissed until they manifest in more severe forms, contributing to mental health challenges. Adhering to the belief that a picture is worth a thousand words, I am compelled to create art that not only captivates but also serves as a catalyst for dialogue on these foundational issues. This conversation is crucial for societal transformation, aiming to uproot the seeds of unhealthy societal norms and foster positive change.”
“I firmly advocate for the creation of art that goes beyond mere aesthetic appeal, aiming to deliver profound messages to my audience.”
How would you describe your work?
“I am celebrated for my creative prowess in crafting photographs that invite viewers to challenge societal norms. What truly distinguishes me is my utilization of this medium as a catalyst for social change. I ardently believe in the power of creating art that transcends mere aesthetic allure, dedicating a substantial portion of my time to researching and brainstorming ways to artistically bring attention to less explored yet impactful issues. In my dual roles as a commercial photographer and conceptual artist, I explore a wide spectrum of subjects across genres, spanning editorial fashion/beauty, products, food, and conceptual fine art photography. Despite this diversity, my personal artistic signature often incorporates vibrant, bold colors set against a desaturated backdrop, coupled with moody and dramatic lighting. This harmonious fusion of contemporary and classic elements in my work enables me to convey compelling messages and effect meaningful change through my artistry.”
Which artists influence you most?
“My wellspring of inspiration is drawn from a diverse array of world-renowned photographers, encompassing luminaries like Richard Avedon, Tim Walker, Erwin Olaf, Diane Arbus, and Vivian Maier. In addition to these photographic influences, the works of painters such as Caravaggio, Vincent Van Gogh, and Frida Kahlo, as well as the cinematic brilliance of filmmakers like Tim Burton, Stanley Kubrick, and Martin Scorsese, have played a profound role in shaping and inspiring my journey as a photographer.”
What is your creative process like?
“In the sanctuary of my creative process, I immerse myself in the realms of literature, delve into extensive research, and accompany my thoughts with the symphony of classical music. During these contemplative sessions, I engage in creative writing, meticulously crafting narratives that serve as a blueprint for the projects I aspire to embark upon in the near future. This meticulous planning not only aligns my artistic endeavors but also ignites a continuous wellspring of inspiration. To sustain my creativity and cultivate an enduring motivation, I orchestrate a harmonious interplay of varied mediums. Beyond the confines of the photographic realm, I deliberately navigate towards alternate expressions of artistry. I find solace in the strokes of a paintbrush, the fusion of diverse materials in mixed media projects, and the exploration of alternative processes in photography. This deliberate shift not only offers a rejuvenating break but also ensures that my artistic spirit remains dynamic and productive.”
What is an artist’s role in society and how do you see that evolving?
“The artist's role in society is undergoing a transformation, and I ardently champion art that surpasses mere aesthetic appeal. It should function as a conduit for conveying profound messages to the audience, actively contributing to societal awareness and fostering transformation. A significant portion of my time is committed to researching and brainstorming inventive ways to artistically illuminate less-discussed yet potent issues, frequently overshadowed by their subtle nature. This commitment is pivotal as the subjects explored in my projects warrant heightened awareness and attention.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“My series, 'THE SELVES,' has graced both gallery and online spaces, making its debut in 2017 at the Squid Ink Gallery (Dark Arts) and the California Council of Art, Los Angeles. The same compelling series received further recognition at the Black Box Gallery in Portland, Oregon, during the same year. In a notable showcase, 'THE SELVES' was featured at the PHOTOVILLE 2017 Photo Exhibition in Brooklyn, New York, in September 2017. In that prolific year, another significant series, 'THE LULLABY' 2017, found its place in the spotlight. This collection was exhibited at the Schomburg Gallery in Santa Monica, California. Additionally, it took center stage as a Solo Artist Gallery Show with the esteemed Conception Events Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, CA.”
