The Yemen-born British artist and photographer, whose work usually focuses on conflict and identity, has permanent collections at the Guggenheim and MoMA, and is the author of several monographs. The images from Waplington’s most famous collaboration – a rare behind-the-scenes look at Alexander McQueen’s creative journey during the last fashion designer’s 2008 Horn of Plenty collection – were showcased at the Tate Modern last year and are on display in an exhibition at the East Wing in Dubai until March 3.
If you could wake up anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you be?
Easter Island. I love being there. I visited before they built the big runway to land the space shuttle. We were also the only foreigners on the island. The statues are endlessly fascinating and there is also a good surfing beach.
You're sitting down to the perfect meal. Where are you, whom are you with and what are you eating?
As it was [recently] the New Hampshire Primary, I would like eat to a scrambled-egg breakfast with Bernie Sanders, discussing strategies to get him into the White House.
What has been your favourite country or city to shoot in, so far?
I lived for many years in Jerusalem. I love the Old City and the surrounding hills. The sculpture I made with the residents of the Adu Dis refugee camp is currently showing at The Brooklyn Museum in New York.
What's your definition of a great photograph?
A picture of substance that questions and provokes thought in the viewer.
What are your top three travel essentials?
More recently a smartphone, though it used to be a short-wave radio so I could listen to the BBC anywhere in world. I try to travel light, though, and only carry hand luggage. I buy clothes as I need them, so I’ll just pack a laptop, a spare passport and a phone.
What was your first luxury purchase?
I’m still waiting on this one, as I lead a fairly frugal existence. A meal at Nobu every now and then is a luxury to me, and the odd piece of art or collectable vinyl. I want a copy of all the original punk and post-punk records, but they are getting expensive now.
Who inspires you?
People, mainly, and the need to try to make art that is new, thought-provoking and provocative. Working hard every day is important to maintain a sense of purpose in this life. Without work, it all becomes pointless.
What is your biggest failing?
Self-doubt and paranoia, coupled with a shyness and inability to deal with people on a personal level. The old mantra “Do I look like a people person?” rings true with me.
What is your definition of good style?
Watching Steve Caballero skateboard. He’s 52 now, and is still the most stylish skater ever.
Do you have a favourite moment from shooting with Alexander McQueen?
Having only 20 minutes to get the pictures necessary for the book to work, during the show. I enjoy [working under] pressure.
What do you hope audiences will take away from the Working Process exhibit?
A sense of wonderment and understanding of both art and life.
What was your favourite book to publish?
I just published my book We Live as We Dream: Alone, with text by my 97-year-old grandfather, who recounts his time as a medic during the Second World War. The show was at the Tate Modern in 2014.
If you were stranded on a deserted island, what is the one album you'd want with you?
The Velvet Underground & Nico. It is the album that started the music I love, and without it there would be no punk, post-punk or experimental music as we know it.
If you could offer your 20-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Have as much fun as possible, now.
Look for this and similar stories in Luxury magazine, out with The National on Thursday, March 3.
alane@thenational.ae
