Interview: Roy Schweiger
Luca Curci talks with Roy Schweiger during THE BODY LANGUAGE 2025 at Palazzo Albrizzi-Capello in Venice.

Roy Schweiger, a photographer and director based in New York, has an unwavering fascination with the human face. He perceives the unique diversity that exists between each countenance as both inspiring and enigmatic. Over time, Schweiger’s captivation shifted toward the interplay of light and shadow – the transformative qualities that shape and sculpt the face. As an artist, he yearner to express this dynamic. 

Initially, Schweiger embarked on his career as a videographer, creating short documentaries that presented people’s personal stories from a cinematic perspective. However, he soon felt unchallenged and unsatisfied within this medium. Something was missing. It became evident that he was drawn to capturing significant moments, forsaking movement in favour of finding the perfect instant – a frozen narrative encapsulated in a single frame. 

In Mr Schweiger’s own words, “I believe I became a photographer the moment I stopped looking”.

Luca Curci – When you take photos, are you usually inspired by the situation, or do you find inspiration in yourself?
Roy Schweiger – I would say both. As a photographer, my inspiration can vary depending on the client, as it’s typically derived from the specific product or entity I’m asked to enhance through photography. I find inspiration in the small details, whether it’s the location, colors, textures, or even the overall environment. These elements excite me, and I let them guide my creativity. Nevertheless, I always infuse my unique perspective into every project I take.

LC – How important is the editing process in your work? How’s yours?
RS – Retouching and post-production are integral components of the creative process. These tools help bring ideas to fruition. Depending on the nature of the project, they can be of great importance, especially when it comes to brand identity, creative fashion shoots and ad campaigns. The creative director typically guides the direction and overall details during pre-production, laying the groundwork for the expected elements in post-production.

LC – What do you think about art on social media? Are they turning into the new showcases of contemporary art? 
RS – Social media has made art more accessible worldwide, even allowing people to view contemporary art pieces showcased in the most exclusive exhibitions. It has also boosted sales significantly.  However, I personally prefer experiencing art in person to appreciate the full scale, materials, and techniques used in the making of the creations.

LC – Which art themes do you pursue? What is your preferred subject, if there is any?
RS – My preference leans towards light, forms and shapes that constantly create unique subjects. The storytelling I typically emphasise involves high contrast, playing with and creating light and shadows, and enhancing the subject’s form. While symmetry has always intrigued me, I am even more captivated by asymmetry, where broken lines elevate the dynamic nature of the composition. I am drawn to human interactions, often exploring themes where the human body tells its own story through body language and engagement.

LC – How is being an artist nowadays?
RS – It’s the story of my life, it’s both exhilarating and challenging. Nowadays, I’m evolved and secure in my work and presentation. With social media and digital platforms, I feel like I have more opportunities than ever to showcase my work to a global audience, which is exactly how I found ITSLIQUID. However, the digital age also means there’s a lot of competition, and standing out can be tough. On the bright side, technology has opened up new creative possibilities, allowing experimentation with various media and collaborating with others worldwide.

LC – Your last artistic production attracted us. Has the artwork presented been created for the exhibition or as a part of preexisting works?
RS – Both artworks were preexisting commissions, created at different times for different clients. The vertical piece, titled ‘JeanPG’, is a distinctive project I created for Jean Paul Gaultier. This work was photographed in my studio in Milan and was featured in Gaultier’s 2009 womenswear collection, showcasing its unique appeal and creative vision. The horizontal piece, ‘Refined Vista’, is part of a captivating underwater series. This series features multiple models gracefully posed by the poolside, encapsulating a sense of elegance and tranquillity. ‘Refined Vista’ was photographed in 2017 at an 1837 mansion in Irvington, New York, adding a touch of historic charm to the enchanting underwater theme.

LC – Do you agree with our vision of art, and what do you think about the theme of the exhibition?
RS – I was not present at the opening; however, the organisers were gracious enough and shared a lot of photos. I find ITSLIQUID’s vision of art as a dynamic and immersive experience that explores the multifaceted identities of contemporary society. The BODY LANGUAGE theme was exciting for me, as it provided a fantastic opportunity to showcase my preexisting work. Storytelling through body language has always been my greatest inspiration, and this theme allowed me to explore that passion in new and exciting ways

LC – What do you think about ITSLIQUID Platform?
RS – I have only one great thing to say about ITSLIQUID. From personal conversations I’ve had with friends and artists who exhibited in the past, I think it is well-regarded in the art community. This was my debut presentation with the platform. I was under the impression that they’ve had a reputation for high-quality and professional organisation, they have offered me valuable opportunities to showcase my work, and for that, I’m very grateful.

LC – What do you think about the organisation of our event?
RS – I appreciate the efficient and pleasant cooperation with the staff, as well as the quick response times and clear communication both via text and phone calls, and so I was extremely pleased with everything they were able to do for me.