Life & Work with Lee Metztli

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lee Metztli.

Hi Lee, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
From the hot lands of a small border town in South Texas to finding inspiration in midwestern America. Although both are in the same country, two completely different realms and realities. My parents both artists and adventure seekers concocted a cocktail of restlessness and curiosity that keeps my dreams and imagination going every day.

I find inspiration in mundane life scenarios and creating stories from muses I see, people I’ve met, and their stories. I capture these moments as enticing, provocative, and fun. My fascination with cameras and photography began at the age of 10. It’s almost innate due to, growing up in a technologically advancing world. From early 1999 to the present day. Since then it has been an outlet for my expression, documentation of life, a craft.

I like to incorporate other mediums of art that I enjoy such as styling, color theory, shapes, patterns, and atmosphere creation. Building a world and living in that as an escape is something I already do in my mind and in daily life. Bringing it to life is the experience I live for.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s not been the smoothest road. As a young adult financially supporting one’s creative and professional pursuits is tough in an economically challenging time in America but, there’s always away.

From 18 hours of the university and three jobs for a period of time to pay for equipment, It can place a creative in a cloudy spot mentally. Mental health is such a large contributor to the creation of art but, also to the hindrance of its expression.

It’s taken work, learning, listening, and love support from the community around me and my tribe (my family) to get to the place I am today and to be able to create and freely share what I can do with those around me.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a creative creating visuals through digital and film photography as well as, fashion styling, creative direction, graphic design, and the color grading/editing of digital images.

I’m most proud of my ability to communicate authenticity and story through images. My view on society, the way I see the world, the way I’m going through and experiencing relationships with humans I come to know.

I tend to communicate those motifs in my work.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
Grandmas house.

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/leemetztli/work
• Instagram: @leemetztli