We are thrilled to welcome photographer, Chaunté Vaughn to our Print Shop! Chaunte has been a personal friend for many many years and was absolutely instrumental in the formation of Craft the Rainbow. She took all the gorgeous photos in the book. She’s also our featured artist for this month’s Book Club Book, Yellow. Guess which one of these prints celebrates the color 😉
Raised in the heart of Las Vegas in a family of artists, Chaunté now resides in Brooklyn, NY. She can often be found dancing and/or scouring vintage stores for jumpsuits and pretty oddities to add to her collections. She recently photographed a book called Paris By Design that was published by Abrams in 2019.
Her collection in the Lars Print Shop is a selection of prints hand-selected to share with you! Keep reading to see the new artwork and for an interview with Chaunté Vaughn.
New work in the Lars Print Shop from Chaunté Vaughn
Click here to see the full collection!
Chaunté has the unique ability to capture beauty in the mundane. She focuses on the everyday, even decayed or traditionally non-beautiful subjects, but through her use of lighting and composition transforms them into stunning works of art.
Her color series in the collection highlights items from the grocery store and stuff that should be in the trash, but with the magical touch of stylist Kate Stein, they take on a new life where color is celebrated and lighting transforms them into an elegant still life.
“Yellow Mustard” is our featured art print for our book club, Yellow by Michael Pastoureau. It’s a celebration of all things yellow–the color of happiness and optimism made even more so through the comical smiley face.
“This collection of photos is an oddball selection of exercises I’ve done thru the last few years. It’s one of my favorite things to be able to uplift someones home with art I’ve made. I’m so happy these might make it to you someday!”– Chaunté Vaughn
Interview with Chaunté Vaughn
What do you consider yourself?
I consider myself a photographer. I like to do other creative things, but photography is how I earn a living.
How did you get started in your field doing what you do?
I started by taking pictures of my sisters when we were kids. I loved styling them and playing “photoshoot”. It feels like I’m still doing the same thing all these years later.
What did you study? Did you go to school specifically for what you do?
I originally studied painting and graphic design. I moved into photography because it was a faster medium.
What are you most proud of in your career?
My ability to repeatedly carry 50 lbs of photo gear up and down multiple flights of stairs.
What’s your work space like?
I shoot in different kinds of places all the time. Anywhere from big beautiful studios, to cramped offices, to muddy stormy beaches. It’s different every time.
What piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in a creative field?
Have fun and be nice. Draw or write what you think about, no matter what your medium is.
What’s coming up for you this year?
2020 has been really hard for everyone. Hopefully we can come out of it with a new and better perspective.
How has the current situation affected your work flow. Any pivots?
I’ve started shooting more from home. The crew is much smaller:)
Where do you live? How does that influence your work?
I live in Brooklyn NY. Luckily, being here provides me with tons of inspiration. The creatives here are excellent, and there is no shortage of galleries to visit and see it all.
What does your dream retirement look like?
A beach, a lime drink, and a cabana boy:)
What artists/designers/creatives do you look up to? Both historical or present
Not many- because I’m 5 foot 10:)
How has social media influenced your work?
It’s made me hate squares.
What’s inspiring you lately?
I recently watched documentaries on Andrew Wyeth, Franca Sozzani, and Slim Aarons. I love hearing their stories and looking at what makes their work special. Also, I saw a retrospective for Agnes Denes a few months ago, her work resonated with me and reminded me that all artists touch the divine when they create.
Where else you can find Chaunté’s work
At chauntevaughn.com and on Instagram here
And click here to find the perfect print to brighten your walls.