French artist, photographer, and writer Thomas Lélu juggles contemporary art, fashion, and pop culture. Exhibited at the Palais de Tokyo, the Fondation Cartier, and the Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, he challenges conventions with a universe where humor flirts with criticism and visual diversion. Pop, tender, and biting, he invents a unique language, blending graphic elegance with intimate reflections. In his books, as in his images, everyday life is replayed with irony, derision, and visual poetry. Reposted by Kelly Rutherford, Kendall Jenner, and Emily Ratajkowski, he has established himself today as a true global visual phenomenon.
What advice would you give to those who wish to remain true to themselves in a world that constantly pushes them to change?
My advice is to regularly disconnect from the media, news, and social networks to engage in outdoor activities, moments of sharing, connecting with nature, and creating.
What risk have you taken that you are proud of?
The risk of displeasing others and asserting who I am.
What are you currently trying to unlearn?
I try to disconnect as much as possible. I try not to feel the need to constantly learn more, the insatiable hunger for information and knowledge. Ultimately, we don't need to know a lot. I try to embrace simplicity, less.
What scares you more: being seen or being misunderstood?
I wouldn't call it fear, but perhaps anxiety. I think it's more the anxiety of no longer being seen or loved; rejection and contempt have always hurt me.
