Hey there, I'm Vicky Polak.
I invite you to step into my world, where I wear many creative hats. I'm based in London, and I'm a visual anthropologist, photographer, and filmmaker. I work alongside artists and art galleries and other institutions as a producer and image maker.
My journey into the world of visual storytelling was ignited by a deep passion for cinema, photography, and contemporary art. Before I ventured into my current role as a creative professional, I dedicated myself to studying these artistic disciplines.
My journey began to take shape in 2010 when my work was published in various prestigious publications. During this time, I collaborated with Harper's Bazaar, using my lens to capture the essence of working women. This experience ignited my interest in portraying people and documenting diverse cultures and movements, forming the foundation of my unique approach to visual storytelling. I focus mainly in doing artist’s portraits as I have a good rapport with them. I believe that being in the studio with someone in front of my camera is a ritual.
My love for cinema is evident in every frame I capture, and I thrive both on set and behind the scenes in the editing room. When working with brands and clients, I add my personal touch to every project, infusing them with my creative vision. Notably, I was entrusted with setting up in-house studios for renowned brands like the Cambridge Satchel Company and Feelunique (formerly Sephora), working with luxury brands across various industries. Currently, I hold the position of Producer and Events Coordinator at Victoria Miro Gallery, where I collaborate with some of the most celebrated contemporary artists. I also have my own studio where I create portraits for other artists.
My journey is deeply intertwined with the pursuit of well-being, both for the body and the soul. To me, the camera is more than just a tool; it's a powerful instrument for self-expression and a means to explore the world. I furthered my skills by completing a master's degree in Visual Anthropology at Goldsmiths University in London. My thesis, a 20-minute video about pilgrimages in England, laid the foundation for my exploration of short films and video essays, with a particular focus on topics like environment using archive footage and soundscapes. You can explore my work in this realm on my YouTube channel.
Each image I create is the result of in-depth research, allowing me to craft narratives that delve into the human body as both a landscape and an identity, using light and shadows as my storytelling tools.
If you're seeking an artist who seamlessly blends visual anthropology with photography and filmmaking to craft captivating narratives, I'm the ideal choice. Don't hesitate to get in touch with me at vickypolakstudio@gmail.com to explore potential collaborations and projects.
Contact Information:
Studio: Vicky Polak Photography
Address: Unit 21 J, Perseverance Works, 38 Kingsland Road, London E2 8DD, United Kingdom