Finding solace and freedom in my own inner world
- Jan van Schooten
- Jul 25
- 2 min read
Photographer Jan van Schooten about his artistic journey
As a commercial photographer, I spent most of my career capturing sharp, realistic images. However, about 25 years ago, I stumbled upon Peinture de Lumière photography, which allowed me to experiment and create something different from my usual shots. It wasn't until three years ago, though, that I unintentionally began to translate my emotions into abstract images. This shift was largely influenced by a tumultuous relationship I was in at the time. The chaos and unpredictability of the relationship found its way into my photography, with vibrant colors and a chaotic life reflecting the rollercoaster of emotions I was experiencing.
However, as I navigated this challenging period, I discovered that my photography was not only a reflection of my external circumstances but also a gateway to my inner self. As I allowed my intuition to guide my lens, I embarked on a journey of self- discovery through photographic art. The process was therapeutic, and my images began to convey a deeper meaning and sense of purpose. It wasn't until the relationship had ended, though, that I realized the profound impact it had on my artistic journey. I had been chasing validation from others for most of my life, seeking happiness and self-worth through external sources. But as I reflected on my experiences, I came to understand that the only validation I truly needed was from myself.
One of the images that stands out from this period is "Shiva," which I shot in 2022 at a flower market in Mumbai, India. In Hindu mythology, Shiva is the god of destruction, and the story goes that in order to build something new, the old must die. This image has become a symbol of my own transformation, as I learned to let go of the need for external validation and instead, find solace in my own inner world. Through my photography, I have discovered a sense of freedom and creativity that I had been searching for my entire life. The journey has been unpredictable, but it has ultimately led me to a place of self-awareness and artistic expression.
My work, titled Peinture de Lumière, explores the transformative power of light as a creative medium. By harnessing light to "paint" directly onto my camera sensor, I create images that transcend traditional photography, blending the boundaries between science and art. This process allows me to craft luminous compositions that resemble paintings, where light itself becomes the brushstroke, capturing ephemeral moments and abstract forms with a painterly quality.
I refer to this approach as Quantum Photography because it acknowledges the existence of multiple realities beyond what the human eye perceives. Just as quantum physics suggests a universe of infinite possibilities, my work seeks to reveal hidden layers of existence through the manipulation of light. Each image is a visual exploration of these alternate realities, inviting viewers to contemplate the unseen dimensions that surround us. Through this technique, I aim to challenge perceptions and expand the understanding of photographic art. The interplay of light and sensor becomes a dialogue between the tangible and the intangible, ultimately revealing the profound beauty and complexity of the unseen world.
Webseite: https://www.instagram.com/jan.van.schooten/ Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/jan.van.schooten
