Marcel Varela
Photo by Marcel Varela
Part of the Jay/Day manifesto is to support young artists. Here's my effort for the year:
Marcel Varela works behind the front counter at Republic on Union Square. (He's the one with the huge smile and the most amazing head of hair you've ever seen in your life.)
I was in the other day and discovered that he's a budding commercial photographer. I mentioned the Jay/Day website and he is thrilled to meet all of you. I told him that you were all movers and shakers within the industry and that several of you are art directors for major agencies. So, as your Jay/Day contribution, please read his bio below, visit his website, and then invite him to come show you his portfolio. (I'm absolutely serious about this. Remember how hard it was to get inside the door of your first agency!)
You can write to him at marcelsphoto@yahoo.com. Or stop by Republic. He's
the very personable young man behind the front counter at lunch time.
Marcel Varela:
Born and raised in the Dominican Republic, I was surrounded by natural beauty and physical beauty--beaches, bright blue skies, and the beautiful people in my life. My mother's modeling career influenced my interest in photography, as I was absolutely enthralled with the photo-shoots that she took me to.
I decided to move to New York after high school in order to pursue photography. I attended Laguardia Community College for two years and then I continued on to the School of Visual Arts for my bachelors in photography.
While I was at S.V.A. I had a rare and especially interesting (and often trying) internship with Mr. David LaChapelle. This was a tremendous experience for me--it opened my eyes to a whole different style of fashion photography and celebrity personalities. David really captured the personality of his models, something that was inspirational to me.
After David I worked for several other photographers, including Eva Mueller, Rodrick Angle, Steven Gross, and Robert Currant, among others-- each of whom I learned a lot from. So now, after school, after internships, after being at the whim of other very talented people, I am hoping to get my own work out there (and bartending to keep living!)
Comments
I know Marcel very well, and I vouch that he is not only an amazing person but also a very talented photographer. I'm glad to see that his work is being recognized; I hope someone will help him to get his foot, or even both feet, in "the door." Good luck, Marcel. You deserve it.
Posted by: M | June 21, 2003 08:49 PM
I don't know Marcel very well but by looking at his artwork you can tell he's an amazing talent. He's got that something special - but I don't know what it is. There's something about his photos that sucks you right in.
He's got that ability to capture raw emotions in a photo.
WOW .. I think I'm a fan of Marcel Varela now ! Can I get an autograph ?
Posted by: Lollie60 | July 9, 2003 03:44 PM
You go, Marcel... You deserve every opportunity that comes your way. Glad to see people are on your side. -Fawn
Posted by: Fawn | November 3, 2003 10:16 PM