We caught up with Lucy ahead of the Arts House Trust – Secondary School Arts Awards in Auckland this week
Lucy Lu is a year 12 Visual Art student currently taking Level 3 Photography and Scholarship Photography.
Tell us about your art work that you entered into the arts awards:
“The Moon Will Always Rise” captures the moon in various forms and colours. It is in the shape of an infinite cycle, shifting from crescent to full, also represents the cycle of life of the moon: joys and sorrows, ups and downs, waxing and waning, the forever-changing nature. Yet no matter what happens, the moon will always rise. Its soft light calms the long night, sweeping away the shadows and tears of life, reminding us that we will always have a brand new tomorrow. So, even in the utter darkness, please don’t forget to look up.
What does ‘Photography’ mean to you?
Photography to me is not only a hobby or a school subject—it is my way of living and perceiving the world. Taking photos has become my unique way of recording life, capturing everyday moments that might otherwise pass unnoticed.
What is your favourite subject to photograph and why?
Sometimes, taking photos is like an experiment, especially when taking still lifes in a studio. By changing the position of the lights and props, adjusting the colours of the photo, there are always a lot of unpredictable outcomes that we didn’t expect. Just like science sometimes, some important conclusion falls out by an accident or even a mistake. Everything in photography is filled with possibilities and beauty.
Why do you think others should take photography (or visual art subjects in general)?
For me, visual art subjects are a way to express my feelings and a vehicle for communication with others. Photography is the simplest and quickest way for others to see your point of view. You don’t need complex composition or perfect lighting. As long as you are carrying your phone you can start taking photos.
What’s the most challenging photo you’ve ever taken and why?
That’s definitely going to be the photos of Mt.Taranaki! At first, I just wanted to take some photos like many people do (the mountain and reflections in the water). Unfortunately, the weather wasn’t helping me. After climbing for four hours I didn’t even see Mt. Taranaki because of the foggy weather. But just like I said, taking photos is like an experiment, you never know what your outcome would be. Luckily, through my hard work on Photoshop, I finally got some unexpectedly wonderful photos that I didn’t expect before.
What do you want to do after you leave school?
I want to become an art therapist. For me, art has always been more than just creating something beautiful — it’s a language of feelings. Many emotions are too heavy or too complicated to describe in words, but art gives them a voice. I hope to use this language of art to help people express themselves, feel understood, and slowly heal.
