Yann Fagotin, better known by his artist moniker Irlass, is a 24-year-old photographer from France. Yann’s work is a vivid tapestry woven from the threads of his diverse cultural background, a blend that has fueled his curiosity and passion for various art forms since childhood. His fascination spans across fashion, sports, and music, each element playing a crucial role in shaping his unique artistic vision.
Yann’s photographs are not just images; they are portals into a surreal and pictorialism-inspired universe. His goal is to immerse viewers in this world, to make them pause and reflect, to see beauty and vulnerability through his lens. One of his standout works, “La venue de Milo,” perfectly encapsulates this ethos. Inspired by the classic sculpture Venus de Milo, Yann reimagines beauty and vulnerability, infusing it with a sense of mystery. The result is a striking image that is both colorful and dark, inviting viewers to interpret and engage with it on a deeper level.
Growing up in a culturally rich environment, Yann was exposed to a myriad of artistic influences early on. This exposure kindled his curiosity and led him to explore different forms of expression. Whether it was the elegance of fashion, the dynamism of sports, or the rhythm of music, each art form contributed to his development as an artist. This eclectic mix of interests is evident in his work, which often blends elements from these diverse fields to create something truly unique.
In “La venue de Milo,” for example, Yann takes the classical beauty of the Venus de Milo and infuses it with a modern twist. The photograph plays with light and shadow, color and darkness, to create a scene that is at once familiar and otherworldly. The use of vibrant colors juxtaposed with darker tones adds depth and complexity to the image, drawing viewers in and encouraging them to explore the layers of meaning within.
Yann’s approach to photography is deeply personal and introspective. He uses his camera not just as a tool for capturing images, but as a means of exploring and expressing his inner world. This introspection is evident in his work, which often reflects his own experiences, emotions, and thoughts. By sharing these aspects of himself through his art, Yann hopes to connect with others on a meaningful level, to evoke emotions and provoke thought.
One of the defining features of Yann’s photography is his ability to create a sense of mystery and intrigue. His images often have a dreamlike quality, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. This is achieved through his use of surrealistic elements and pictorialism techniques, which add a unique texture and depth to his work. The result is a body of work that is both visually stunning and intellectually stimulating.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Yann is also deeply interested in the broader cultural context of his work. He draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, from classical art to contemporary culture, and is always looking for new ways to challenge and expand his creative horizons. This openness to new ideas and influences is a testament to his dedication to his craft and his desire to continually evolve as an artist.
Through his photography, Yann Fagotin, aka Irlass, invites us to see the world through his eyes. His work is a celebration of beauty and vulnerability, a blend of light and dark, a journey into the surreal and the pictorial. It is a testament to the power of art to connect us, to make us think, and to inspire us. As we immerse ourselves in his universe, we are reminded of the endless possibilities that art offers and the profound impact it can have on our lives.
