Public Republic

Vanya Nikolaeva’s interview with Vanya Mitova (Vanchella)

Translated from Bulgarian by Velina Vateva

Vanya Mitova (Vanchella) works as a scriptwriter and photographer for TV MAD. She has also studied Visual Art, and is a self-taught photographer, doing mostly ad work. Vanchella has also been exposed to the strict lens of the camera as a model: Her most recent assignment was with graphic artist, Waldo Lee (Walee). Not only should a photo speak, believes Vanchella, but it should also offer space for perception that is in accordance not only with the observer’s inner world, but also with his or her conception of the outer world.

What do you think fashion means?

It is a form of expression—a way to express, through your whole styling of the way you look, a response to the mainstream. I love details in fashion.

In 2006, Vanchella’s “Self-Portrait” (first photo) was one of 100 photos exhibited in the Lumix Awards Competition. There were 2700 submissions. Her photo also appeared in the competition catalogue. The Lumix Awards is an international competition supported by Panasonic all over the world; this photo was also on the catalogue of the competition. 2 700 photos were admitted for the competition, 850 of them were chosen by the organizers and those were to be valued by a jury. Only 100 of them were to reach the exhibition, one of which were these of Vanchella.

What is the most important trait in a model?

He or she should be photogenic, patient, and a hard worker.

What do you try to express through your photography?

It depends – photos are different. There is always an aim. I could say that through them I express, in some ways, myself. Through them I also express my point of view, my notions about the world around me.

In 2006 Vanchella participated in the first” Bodygraphia” naked body photography competition. It was held in Veliko Tyrnovo. During this competition she fell in love with photography. She says her days there were very emotional. “It was an unbelievable experience. I met so many people. Learned a lot, laughed, and felt such joy.” Each of the participants had the opportunity to show three photos in the final exhibition. (You can read more about the competition here)

Playboy’s editor-in-chief in Bulgaria was impressed with Vanchella’s photos from Bodygraphia and published them in the magazine. It was not, however, the first time she had been published by Playboy. Her works were presented in the heading Bulgarian Photo.

What is the most important thing you would like people to know about you?

I am a positive, but not naive person. In the extreme I am creative.

Is modern photography a challenge?

Yes, after all, the final result has to capture your attention. And what is more, to capture it where it should…

In 2007 Vanchella began working as a freelance photographer and fulfilled one of her dreams of shooting for ads and fashion.

In the same year she became a photographer for TV MAD, working at concerts, festivals, and interviews, even reviews. She says, “Photography is an ocean – it has no limits, and you can always find a challenge in it.”

What do you rely on more – on the effect of black-and-white or colour photos? Why?

It depends on what I want to express. These are two different forms of expression. It is like in literature – there are different ways to describe an object to affect the way it is comprehended.

What do you think is a synonym for success?

Success means to be happy with what you do and this brings you positive results. It means to feel inner peace. In one word – it means satisfaction.

Do you have a favorite brand or designer?

No, I do not have one favorite. But I prefer sport clothes. (Rip Curl, Protest, Circa, Globe, Pony…etc..)

What do you dream of?

I dream there is no pollution, nor global warming. I dream mankind will become conscious of itself and save nature. I wish to travel all over the world (especially the exotic places), to take very nice shots, and to reach some more personal goals.

Inspired by the photos of a colleague, Vanchella agreed to pose for his camera.

Снимка: Kosara

Снимка: Kosara

After this, she appeared on the cover of Digital magazine, as well as on the pages of EGO and Joy magazines. However, she says she does not stand in front of anyone’s camera.

In October 2008, French graphic artist, Waldo Lee (Walee), invited Vanchella to Paris as one of his models. Walee was planning an exhibition in the French capital. This was an intense process of creation.

In her free time Vanya Mitova photographs anything that impresses her. She loves to travel and says that Nature gives her creative strength. Perhaps because she has been painting since she was a child, hers is an original approach to the process of composition. “Everything depends on the point of view, and every object has so many perspectives that this offers an immense freedom for experimentation.”