W h a t M o t i v a t e s M e
I'm driven by curiosity about the world and captivated by photography's storytelling potential. My work, from abstract to straightforward, captures moments with the perfect angle and lighting. Photography fuels my imagination and offers therapeutic fulfillment. I hope my images inspire you to find your own stories.
The extraordinary exists in the ordinary.
It is a matter of perspective and curiosity that allows us to see it...
A r t i s t B i o
Raffi Bashlian's photography captures the resilience and depth of human experiences. Born to Armenian parents in Beirut and later moving to England, he trained as a nurse and earned a master’s degree from NYU before pursuing photography in the US, which unexpectedly blossomed into success. His art is influenced by his multicultural background, rooted in the vibrant landscapes of Beirut, San Francisco, London, New York, and now Paris, reflecting a unique blend of scientific precision and emotional depth.
Drawing inspiration from the contrasts of Lebanon's civil war—destruction and renewal—Raffi's work invites audiences to discover the hidden beauty in everyday life. Each photograph serves as a testament to survival and transformation, encouraging viewers to appreciate the elegance in both simplicity and complexity. His diverse, award-winning portfolio spans various genres, ignited by a transformative safari in Africa in 2013 that awakened his passion for capturing the beauty of wildlife, cityscapes, and street scenes.
With a keen eye for composition and balance, Raffi embraces both black-and-white imagery and vibrant colors. For him, photography transcends mere image capture; it’s about expressing a distinct artistic voice and inviting viewers to explore the extraordinary within the ordinary, celebrating the hidden treasures that surround us.
A r t i s t S t a t e m e n t
My photography reflects my journey of self-discovery, showcasing a collection of images that highlight the diverse facets of my evolving artistic voice. I chose photography as my primary medium for its ability to capture fleeting moments and emotions, allowing me to document life as it unfolds and create a tangible connection to memory and experience.
Influenced by greats like Henri Cartier-Bresson and Sebastião Salgado, I focus on capturing decisive moments and profound human experiences. Inspired by Van Gogh, I aim to evoke a painterly quality through vivid colors and emotive forms, conveying themes of resilience, transformation, and the beauty in everyday life.
As a generalist photographer, I explore various genres while appreciating the power of black and white photography alongside vibrant colors. My journey into photography, sparked by a life-changing safari, continues to guide me in capturing the extraordinary within the ordinary. Through my work, I hope to inspire viewers to find beauty in their surroundings and connect more deeply with the world and one another.
