The Paris Chong Show

Leica Gallery Curator Paris Chong. Hosts a talk show delivered by video + podcast talking with her artsy-fartsy friends...and don't forget Disco, her second son.

  1. Nov 4

    Sean Black’s Life in Photography, Art, AIDS Activism, and Storytelling

    Paris Chong sits down with acclaimed portrait photographer, photojournalist, and educator Sean Black to discuss his remarkable creative journey and his recent Emmy nomination as a producer for the Hulu streaming film *Living Proof*. Ranging from his roots in photography and his dad's Leica cameras to his enduring impact as an AIDS activist, Black shares candid reflections on community, resilience, and the power of visual storytelling. The conversation explores Black's striking street photography—including his celebrated Miami Pride portraits and work shown alongside Anthony Friedkin’s *Gay Essays* at Leica—as well as his pivotal experiences interviewing and documenting cultural icons. Reflecting on the profound losses and triumphs of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, Black and Chong celebrate the medical advancements and community bonds that allow individuals to live full, healthy lives today. Finally, Black shares behind-the-scenes stories from touring on the road with his favorite band, Erasure, capturing legendary artists like Debbie Harry, and balancing his creative endeavors with teaching at Antelope Valley. It is an inspiring, heartfelt, and humorous discussion about art, music, friendship, and staying true to one's creative vision through life's many hustles. Show Notes: www.theparischongshow.com/episodes/sean-blacks-life-in-photography-art-aids-activism-and-storytelling Chapters: 00:00 Theme Song Banter 01:28 Meet Sean Black 03:43 Pride Photo Story 05:07 LA Miami Life 08:32 AIDS Activism Talk 15:32 Drag Memories 20:58 Tour Bus Family 22:16 B-52s Walk of Fame 23:45 Debbie Harry Surprise 26:00 Back on Tour Plans 28:18 Emmys Outfit Talk 29:55 Where to Find the Work 🎵 Music by ⁠Andrew Raiher⁠ https://andrewraiher.com/ 📸 Shot & Edited at ⁠Visible Audio Studios https://www.visibleaudiostudios.com

    Sean Black’s Life in Photography, Art, AIDS Activism, and Storytelling
  2. Oct 7

    Stephen Vanasco, From 90s Skate Culture to LA Aerials: The Story of Van Styles

    Paris Chong sits down with photographer Stephen Vanasco, also known as Van Styles, to discuss his creative journey from '90s skate culture to fine art photography. Vanasco reflects on how his background in skateboarding instilled a strong "do-it-yourself" ethos, enabling him to build a successful career on his own terms without relying on traditional agencies or managers. He also breaks down his daily shooting approach, explaining why 99.9% of his current work is shot on film using his Leica MP cameras. The conversation delves into Vanasco's standout commercial and personal endeavors, including his permanent 25-print exhibit at the Kith store on Sunset Boulevard and his aerial workshops with Leica Academy USA. Stephen shares details about his main long-term project—a photo book cataloging over ten years of aerial flights above Los Angeles since 2014. Through these aerial views, he captures the changing face of LA’s architecture, landmarks, and urban development in the lead-up to the 2028 Olympic Games. Looking to the future, Chong and Vanasco explore ideas for upcoming exhibitions at Leica Gallery LA, brainstorming pairings between high-altitude aerial shots and ground-level street photography. Vanasco finishes with practical advice for emerging creators, encouraging young photographers to experiment with different mediums, avoid rigid routines, and utilize new digital tools to chart their own path. Show Notes: www.theparischongshow.com/episodes/stephen-vanasco-from-90s-skate-culture-to-la-aerials-the-story-of-van-styles Chapters: 00:00 Show Intro 01:09 Meet Stephen Vanasco 02:30 Film Leica Daily Carry 04:48 Aerial Work And LA Book 16:05 Leica Connections Worldwide 17:47 Pop Ups And Olympic Plans 18:34 Portraits Versus Landscapes 20:43 Zines DIY And The Book 25:35 Finding Your Voice And Wrap Up 🎵 Music by ⁠Andrew Raiher⁠ https://andrewraiher.com/ 📸 Shot & Edited at ⁠Visible Audio Studios https://www.visibleaudiostudios.com

    Stephen Vanasco, From 90s Skate Culture to LA Aerials: The Story of Van Styles

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
12 Ratings

About

Leica Gallery Curator Paris Chong. Hosts a talk show delivered by video + podcast talking with her artsy-fartsy friends...and don't forget Disco, her second son.

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