Willy Cartier : Chameleon.
Willy Cartier is a versatile artist, born into a family steeped in art in all its forms. His father, a classical dancer, painter and writer, and his mother, also a dancer, undoubtedly influenced his artistic path. From an early age, he felt different, with his long, eye-catching black hair, sometimes considered too long by some, but ultimately becoming an integral part of his identity.
Navigating backstage in theaters and on television, Willy Cartier sees his life only in artistic circles. His singular allure first opened the doors to modeling, where he seduced such big names as Riccardo Tisci, Jean-Paul Gaultier and Karl Lagerfeld. His spectacular physique, the result of his Vietnamese, Senegalese and French origins, earned him numerous advertising campaigns and prestigious magazine covers.
However, cinema remains a constant aspiration for him. Although he shines in the world of fashion, Willy Cartier is not content with this success and explores other forms of artistic expression. Convinced that it is impossible to limit himself to a single means of creative expression, he asserts his need for diversity. He has been drawing since childhood, and also excels in painting and photography. These different mediums offer him a broad palette in which to freely express his creativity.
Much more than a famous model, Willy Cartier embodies artistic diversity and proves that creative expression knows no boundaries, whether it manifests itself through the strokes of a brush, the clicks of a camera or a dancing step.
Instagram : @willycartier / @aerastudi0
What was your first photographic breakthrough?
Willy Cartier : The first film I had processed.
The man or woman who inspired you?
Willy Cartier : Willy Vanderperre.
The image you haven’t made yet that you’d like to make?
Willy Cartier : A fashion editorial in the clouds.
The one that moved you the most?
Willy Cartier : Generally speaking, it’s portraits of strangers that move me.
Which one made you angry
Willy Cartier : All photos of surviving children in war zones.
A key image in your personal pantheon?
Willy Cartier : A double-exposure portrait shot with a Hasselblad.
A photographic memory from your childhood?
Willy Cartier : My mother had a camcorder. As a child, I used to plug it into the television to film the screen and create psychedelic projections.
The image that obsesses you?
Willy Cartier : It’s so complex that I can’t describe it in a few words.
In your opinion, what’s the one quality needed to be a good photographer?
Willy Cartier : Spontaneity.
The secret of the perfect image, if it exists?
Willy Cartier : Imperfection.
The photographer by whom you would like or would have liked to have your portrait taken?
Willy Cartier : Jack Brigdland.
An essential photo book?
Willy Cartier : “Olga” by Ellen Von Unwerth.
The camera you use today?
Willy Cartier : It’s a secret. (laughs)
What’s your favorite drug?
Willy Cartier : No drugs, only passion!
The best way for you to disconnect?
Willy Cartier : Parachute jumping.
What do you see when you look in the mirror?
Willy Cartier : I never recognize myself, I’m always surprised.
What’s your greatest quality?
Willy Cartier : It’s not for me to say!
Your latest folly?
Willy Cartier : Falling in love.
An image to illustrate a new banknote?
Willy Cartier : A garbage can.
The job you wouldn’t have liked to do?
Willy Cartier : Banker.
Your greatest professional extravagance?
Willy Cartier : Shooting a special project for John Galliano.
The city, country or culture you dream of discovering?
Willy Cartier : Japan.
The place you never tire of?
Willy Cartier : Paris.
Your biggest regret?
Willy Cartier : No regrets, it’s a rule.
In terms of social networks, do you prefer Instagram, Facebook, Tik Tok or Snapchat, and why?
Willy Cartier : Myspace because it’s the only social media I feel free to do anything that suits me.
Color or B&W?
Willy Cartier : Color.
Daylight or artificial light?
Willy Cartier : Daylight.
What do you consider to be the most photogenic city?
Willy Cartier : New York.
If God existed, would you ask him to pose for you, or would you opt for a selfie with him?
Willy Cartier : If he existed, he’d be in all of us, so I’ve probably already taken a photo of him without knowing it!
If I could organize your ideal dinner party, who would be at the table?
Willy Cartier : A tête-à-tête dinner with Charlie Chaplin.
The image that represents the current state of the world for you?
Willy Cartier : The photo of the 5 women in their underwear on their telephones.
Final word?
Willy Cartier : Always create new dreams.
