Justin Monroe - Shoot to Thrill / Exclusive Preview
When you think of Justin Monroe’s photography words such as Loud, Adonis, fairy tales, platforms shoes, naked, tattoos and sex probably come to mind. Love it or hate it this what you’ll come face to face with when entering Monroeland.
ES! recently caught up with Justin Monroe at his studio in Los Angeles, California for a sneak peek at some of his new work and to find out what new projects he has in store for us.
So, ladies and gentlemen, step right up, don't be shy. Come on in for MORE FROM MR. MONROE. And don't forget to click-the-pix for a better view (you know you wanna!).
A: I am focusing on two publishing projects currently. One is a sweet little book called "Cherry." Inside the book you will find many edible boys in super naughty poses with giant penis’ that leap off the page (laughs). This work has been a project that I hold so dear to my heart. There is even a section that is reminiscent of children's scratch-and-sniff book where you can almost smell the chocolate.
The other is a book called "Play Things" - which is a glimpse into a demented toy makers shop in downtown skid row Los Angeles. Its outrageous, a bit creepy, and very provocative for he makes sex toys for adult girls and boys. In this book you will find Orgasmobots, twinky sex dolls, dirty little piggies, Perez Hilton as Humpty Bumpty (see top of post) and much much more.
Q: How are these books different from your first?
A: I feel like with my first book I drove the car to the edge of the cliff and just took you to edge, just enough to raise your heart rate. In these two new compilations I take you straight to the monster truck show and blew up every motherfucking car in the arena. When I found myself wanting to question myself or go overboard, then a voice in my head would say HELL NO! I feel like we entered a time in art and photography, even the world, were it just does not pay to be polite as it is to say whats on your mind.
Q: What advice do have for new and up and coming photographers?
A: I would think I would have to say. If your work is valuable do not give it away. You see, being a new young photographer is like being the new boy in town. Everybody wants to fuck you but no body wants to take you to dinner so....MAKE THEM PAY!
Q: What inspired you from the very beginning to become a photographer?
A: There was an extension course in my high school an introduction course into photography. We had homework projects which included shooting birds, sunsets and family pets...but I didn’t get that memo. I used the class as an opportunity to get my friends naked. So, you can only imagine the open critiques I received (chuckles). I guess I haven’t changed much. I can get models naked in 3.5 seconds. In all honesty, nudity for nudity is just that...nudity. I feel like nudity is very empowering and, at the same time, nudity can bring someone to a point of vulnerability and a place of quiet.
We also talked about Facebook and their homophobic tendencies and prejudices. In response to Facebook'selective censorship, Monroe created a blog, www.monroe-land.com, to reveal exactly how his images are intended to be seen. Be sure to visit when you can!
"I guess I am just a freak because I have never been afraid or ashamed of my exhibitionism," Monroe says in conclusion. "Or, maybe, I just don't have any sense at all. (haha)"
For more of Justin Monroe Photography please checkout his website at www.justinmoroe.com and/or www.monroe-land.com
..i want a VIP -pass lol
GREAT WORK !!!!!
Posted by: gunnar | May 2011 at 08:02 AM
love the entrance to monroe-land: circus of sinners. lol
Posted by: dustin | May 2011 at 02:38 PM
f_ckin HOT. love justin's work.
Posted by: Jared | May 2011 at 12:59 PM
OMG I LOVE IT. Where can I buy a ticket?
Posted by: Joey | May 2011 at 12:19 PM