5 Minutes with Amelia Soegijono
Q & A WITH AMELIA SOEGIJONO
HELLO AMELIA! WHERE ARE YOU FROM AND WHAT DO YOU DO?
I’m born in Indonesia, but have lived in Australia for over 20 years.I am a passionate storyteller, and I do it through the power of photography, writing and interior design.
HOW DID YOU FIND OUT ABOUT YOUR CREATIVE PASSION?
Growing up, I realised that when I am doing academic subjects like maths and chemistry, I yawn a lot haha! Being raised by Asian parents, I work hard and I still do well academically but I can’t deny that when I am painting, I feel alive, I feel brave and my teachers noticed and they let me know of what they saw in me - that really encouraged me!
IF YOU WERE A COLOUR, WHAT WOULD YOU BE?
Is gold considered a colour?! I am not into solid colour but touches of gold mesmerises me!
WHO OR WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Sebastiao Salgado’s powerful storytelling moves me, Horst P Horst’s classic and timeless film photography mesmerises me visually. Gospel music lights up my spirit, France makes my heart burst with love and romance…. But the people who inspires me to live life to the fullest are my little children - I feel responsible to pave the way for them to live their best lives - And for them to chase their dreams!
DESCRIBE YOUR ART IN 3 WORDS
Tender, heartfelt and beyond beautiful
WHO ARE YOUR CLIENTS AND WHAT IS THE MOST INTERESTING PROJECT YOU HAVE DONE?
My clients are those with dreams and stories… they are romantics and they are very kind and gorgeous human beings! I have done so many unforgettable projects but one that impacted me the most was the fine art workshop I hosted in Paris in 2019. All of our lives were touched so profoundly and we had shared many tears - of joy and found courage for our next chapters!
WHAT CHALLENGES HAVE YOU FACED AS A PHOTOGRAPHER ?
Having to learn to manage the business side of things which are not fun for me and to maintain my focus so I don’t lose track in my journey!
WHAT WOULD BE YOUR TOP TIP FOR CHILDREN WHO WANT TO BECOME LIKE YOU ONE DAY?
Search the purpose in your life… as you go through life, be aware of what makes your heart beam, and use what has been gifted in your life to fulfill that. You are uniquely placed in this earth for a journey that belongs to you. And for a divine purpose that the world needs - so yes, you are a gift to the world - don’t give up because you are irreplaceable for your purpose!!! If you don’t have a purpose, it is only a matter of time before you will feel lost and burn out!!
WHAT EXCITING PLANS DO YOU HAVE FOR 2021 / 2022 ?
If Covid is kind to us, I would love to host a beautiful charity/exhibition soirée at Summerhope House’s gardens for women in business who are passionate about pursuing their dreams and make a difference. I love fostering communities so I think this will be a very heartfelt event!! In 2022, I am excited to return to France to photograph a few weddings and host another long awaited workshop!!
Thank you so much for introducing yourself to us Amelia! If you want to say hello to Amelia, you can email her at: Amelia@ameliasoegijono.com or see more of her beautiful works below.
