#phil meyer

South London’s LeoStayTrill returns quicky with something a bit different for his On Me video. Adding singing to his bag the kid shows he got all the skills. Taken from the “Home Alone” EP. Directed by: Phil Meyer LeoStayTrill https://www.instagram.com/leostaytrill https://soundcloud.com/leostaytrill https://open.spotify.com/artist/3Ut1IKlpXHBQwxklMxBsPX

Many artists struggle because they feel like they’re trapped in a creative box, because of their association with a certain genre, style, or medium.  Many artists feel like this confinement limits their ability to fully embrace their craft, in all its forms.  Phil Meyer, however, is not “many artists.”  

A New Jersey native, Meyer’s photography embodies the rawness that can be found in serenity; his work borders on simplicity, with a dash of urban edge, a combination that matches his lifestyle as a street photographer who also does editorial work.  

Meyer’s use of irony makes his photographs striking to the audience.  He mixes edge with sophistication, in both directions.  You might see a polished photo of a rapper, or a chic still-life with some added spice.  This disjunction between what the audience expects and what Meyer delivers makes a strong and memorable impression.  

A sign of his true artistry is Meyer’s ability to create pieces that each have their own bold personality.  He creates movement without movement, such as a swirling cloud of smoke from a rapper’s cigarette that lies still on the paper, but eloquently dances within the frame in the eyes of the audience.

Although he originates from next door in New Jersey, this Temple University graduate is now fully immersed in the community and culture of Philadelphia.  He’s even ventured into a few art and clothing galleries in Old City during First Friday.

His first experience had a lasting effect on his attitude towards Philadelphia:

“I was invited by designer Erik who runs Culture Couture Vintage,” Meyer said. “This was one of my first experiences with ‘thrifting’ and it really changed my perception of fashion and the history of Philadelphia.

“Deep is such an understatement,” he said.

Instead of frequenting the more traditional art galleries, his favorite places to go are the pop-up galleries he stumbles upon by accident.  These have an essence of exclusivity that makes the evening much more enjoyable and unique for him.     

“There’s so much culture and expression within the city that often gets overlooked,” Meyer said. “Exploring is so important in any city, but specifically Philly.”

On the reception of an artist’s work, especially in Philadelphia, he noted:

“There’s a sense of appreciation when one looks, hears, experiences someone’s art. Someone took careful time and energy into a piece. Someone did research about the history of the subject before acting on his or her expression. I think there is great value in this and something that the community definitely understands.”

For more information about Meyer’s photography and other ventures:

Instagram: Philtmnj

Tumblr: Phillmatic.tumblr.com

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Candice Nicole