Her name is pronounced, “Catalyst”, and true to form, she’s here precipitating things… for the better. Often behind the lens—lately, she’s in the spotlight, and we are simply obsessed.
Is it wrong of us to start by saying you’re absolutely gorgeous and a bit of a celeb, aren’t ya?
Alyst: *laughing* I’m trying to take compliments better, so thank you, but I’m a little awkward and just happy to share art with others. Thanks. ☺
Well, we are big fans over here and think of you as complete star. Your new work is as colorful as your portfolio’s always been. Do you have a meaning behind the use of vibrancy?
Alyst: I am drawn to color for the eye-catching appeal. I enjoy juxtaposing what looks like cheerful pops of saturation with an apathetic meaning beneath. I want to get someone’s attention and encourage them to look deeper. I also personally love complimentary monochromatic color schemes.
What made you decide to be in the spotlight of your work? What’s the difference between photographing others versus you?
Alyst: I wouldn’t say I’m trying to be in a “spotlight”, but rather share my message as myself. I have personal experiences I want to share from vulnerable perspectives, and wanted to avoid accidentally putting someone in an awkward position and not realizing after the work was complete. When I’m shooting models, I enjoy collaborating on visions or if I seek them out, with inspiration of who they are. When it’s photographing myself, I drop the boundaries and let it all out so to speak.
Brilliant! We love everything you do too. Your messages do feel vulnerable and nostalgic all in one. Some of your work is a bit quirky innit? What’s your personality off the camera?
Alyst: I’m a bit sarcastic actually. A lot of times, my first impression feedback has been, “wow you’re so nice,” and yeah, I like being nice, but I think when people really know me, I enjoy improv and shocking humor. I definitely learned to laugh as a coping mechanism.
Wow! We can’t see that humor just yet. Maybe we got to go get tea and chat a bit more then? Coming over here anytime soon?
Alyst: *laughing* Hey, as soon as it’s safe, I’m in!
You betcha! Do you have any favorite shows from the BBC or part of our culture you love by chance?
Alyst: There’s a few great clothing brands who I am anticipating working with, couple of models, and I’ve always had love for lots of the culture. My mom lived there a bit as a firefighter, she introduced me to a lot of the TV shows, and nowadays, I love watching RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. I grew up watching Changing Rooms, and all sorts of British comedies. British humor is really the best.
Hey can you do us a favor?
Alyst: *laughing* Yes. I think so.
Promise you’ll stop by as soon as Ms. Corona is out of here?
Alyst: Absolutely, let’s do a shoot!
We fancy that! You’re a gem!
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