- How would you describe your artistic style in three words?
Reconnecting to Nature.
- What has been your greatest source of inspiration recently?
The Seven Generation Principle, which encourages a shift from short-term gains to long-term sustainability. It fosters a mindset of stewardship, focusing on leaving the world in a better condition for future generations. This principle promotes care for the earth, people, and all living beings, shifting from exploitation to regeneration. As an artist, I aim to use my creativity as a tool to help people, brands, and organizations grow organically with integrity.
- Is there a specific message or emotion you hope to convey through your works?
I aim to convey the joy of reconnecting with nature—the energy derived from eating real, natural food, the invigorating harmony of being surrounded by living plants and beings, and the inspiration of regenerative living. I believe these emotions can fuel personal growth, and they can also be positively harnessed by brands that seek to grow with a long-term vision for the future.
- How do you keep your creativity fresh and innovative?
I stay true to myself. As I evolve, so does my photography. Innovation flows from my connection to my surroundings and my drive to create art that reflects the world I want to see. This ever-changing relationship with the environment and the discoveries it brings keeps my creativity alive and fresh.
- What are the main obstacles you’ve had to overcome in your artistic journey?
I have a confession: the name “Khayó” is a pseudonym I created to represent the transformation I’ve undergone as a photographer. Changing paths and embracing something untested is daunting— letting go of established clients and forging connections with new ones who share my vision. The challenge is to nurture this seed of change into a strong tree by fostering new and meaningful partnerships.
- What advice would you give to someone trying to break into the art world?
Haha, I wish I had a formula for success! My journey has involved breaking into and out of the art world so many times that it still surprises me. My advice: do what drives you, express what you need to say, and trust where it leads. Whether you reach stardom or find your granny as your audience, your voice matters. Keep going.
- Is there a technique or medium you’d like to explore more in the future?
I’m in love with my new Mamiya RZ 6×7 medium format film camera. I’m excited to explore the slow, deliberate process of analog photography for landscapes and portraits. This camera fosters a unique, contemplative connection with my subjects—something digital photography can’t replicate.
- Where do you draw inspiration for your creative projects? Are there personal passions or does your background influence your work?
Inspiration comes from everywhere. Sometimes, I can sit in the garden, stare at a leaf for an hour, and marvel at nature’s intricate patterns, colors, and textures. Other times, I’m inspired by the work of fellow artists or an unexpected burst of excitement while riding a horse. But most often, inspiration comes when I’m still and receptive, allowing ideas to flow naturally.
- What passions do you have outside of art, and how do they reflect in your creations?
I’m deeply inspired by craftsmanship. The Japanese arts of Kumiko and Tsugite—woodwork without nails—fascinate me, as do African woodfired pottery and natural architecture using materials like rammed earth. The care, precision, and respect these artisans show for their work is something I strive to emulate in my own art.
- What is the place, real or imagined, that inspires you the most?
There’s a tiny village in South Africa’s Eastern Cape mountains called Hogsback. Locals believe its forests and waterfalls are populated by faeries, and it’s a place where I feel most calm and grounded. Whenever I need rest, rejuvenation, or inspiration, that’s where I go.
- Is there a cultural, historical, or contemporary icon who has had a significant impact on your artistic journey?
I find my inspiration in the grassroots efforts of everyday people who create and inspire in countless small ways, contributing to the growth of communities and conjuring up million different ways of creating and relating. In that sense every encounter I have with people is an encounter with an icon I revere.
- Is there a project or collaboration that has truly reflected your personal passions?
My series “Grassroots” captures snapshots of young people planting trees and engaging in simple yet effective ways to regenerate nature. Being part of such a joyful and loving community was one of the most rewarding experiences, and I’m passionate about spreading this energy across the world.
- How do you translate your emotions and passions into a visual language that resonates with brands?
I sense exhaustion and estrangement in younger generations—they’re searching for alternative ways of life: food that nurtures, products that invigorate, activities that heal, and communication that connects. There is a thirst for these kinds of messages and I believe brands can tap into the energy of regeneration and become part of a positive, transformative wave that benefits both people and the environment.
- Where does your passion for art come from?
My drive comes from the humbling experience of participating in the universal process of creation. Adding a little facet to the endless forms of creative expression around us is humbling and rewarding. Strangely I wouldn’t call it passion though, a word that evokes a hot fire, because I feel much more drawn to the cool and calming energy of a mountain lake. Less of a hot burn and more of a still and calming state of relaxation.
- Is there a recurring theme that runs through all of your work?
Realness. After more than ten years as a lifestyle advertisement photographer, I’m increasingly drawn to authentic stories. While much of advertising focuses on idealized dreamworlds, I believe there’s a future for genuine storytelling rooted in lived experiences. It may be a niche, but it holds the power to connect deeper and more meaningfully.
- Is there a work you’d like to create but haven’t found the way to yet?
I’d love to create a global documentary series about people practicing permaculture and other regenerative lifestyles. If anyone has funding, feel free to reach out!
