Dual Perspective in Action: Lottermann&Fuentes 

A camera and two perspectives; why wouldn’t these two elements bring about miracles? The Frankfurt-based artist duo Lottermann and Fuentes, pushing these miracles even further, skillfully combine two distinct viewpoints, giving birth to an entirely new narrative. Through their Ping Pong project, where they push the boundaries of art by merging action and reaction, they weave a broad visual communication network that reaches from friends to colleagues, and even to names whose work they admire but might not yet know. Inviting us to Pilevneli Yalıkavak until September 17th, this unique project beckons us to step into the poignant realm of art.

A camera and two perspectives; why wouldn’t these two elements bring about miracles? The Frankfurt-based artist duo Lottermann and Fuentes, pushing these miracles even further, skillfully combine two distinct viewpoints, giving birth to an entirely new narrative. Through their Ping Pong project, where they push the boundaries of art by merging action and reaction, they weave a broad visual communication network that reaches from friends to colleagues, and even to names whose work they admire but might not yet know. Inviting us to Pilevneli Yalıkavak until September 17th, this unique project beckons us to step into the poignant realm of art.

How does this partnership enhance your creative process and influence the final outcome of your projects?

Lottermann&Fuentes: We are lucky to have found each other. 4 eyes and 2 hearts simply see and feel twice as much. Our work and our projects benefit extremely from our partnership. A constant exchange with a person you like to have around you and with whom you usually come to the same denominator in the end is something that no one can imitate. We also think that this is what is special about Lottermann and Fuentes. 

The ‘Ping Pong’ appears to blend various emotions, styles, and perspectives through the collaborative process. How do you navigate the balance between maintaining your artistic identity and integrating diverse influences?

Lottermann&Fuentes: To be honest, we don’t think too much about it and don’t rack our brains when it comes to choosing the work or the motifs that we photograph. We always look for photos that we personally find great and that fit. Ping Pong should continue to be fun and not cerebral. In this way we can also retain our identity and not be distracted by other influences. And of course there are other influences that inspire us, which we then incorporate and create a new image in our own style.

The ‘Ping Pong’ seems to emphasize interaction and collaboration between artists. How important is this aspect of connection and communication in your creative process?

Lottermann&Fuentes: We love to work and communicate with people and different characters. That’s what we love about photography too. We also believe that you can achieve more together as a team. With Ping Pong we have actually realized our wish to play and to communicate with each other. it brings a lot of joy everyone works together. We love it.

Could you share an unforgettable memory from this project?

Lottermann&Fuentes: Yes, when the Palais de Tokyo wanted to exhibit Ping Pong at Foto Paris and we actually exhibited. That was special.

Could you share the backstory of how this idea emerged and evolved into the captivating project it is today?

Lottermann&Fuentes: I think I remember that at the beginning of our partnership we said we would send each other a photo every day from our vacation that we spent separately in front of each other and send the other a photo in response so that we could stay in touch. Somehow exactly to this tent we had spun the idea further and invented Ping Pong. the principle and the idea is nothing new, we just made it bigger and just keep playing it. Ping Pong should wander and tell many new stories.

What is it like to work as a duo? Could you share one advantage and one disadvantage with us?

Lottermann&Fuentes: Working as a duo has many simple and forgotten principles in an ego rich world. We are never alone we always have our backup with us and don’t have to travel lonely and sadly eat alone at productions. We can always talk, even if the other person feels insecure. The downside is that we share everything, including the money, but even that is ok.

The world is becoming increasingly consumerist, especially in terms of visuals. How does the ‘Ping Pong’ encourage deeper engagement?

Lottermann&Fuentes: It’s the communion action that is created. it’s not about consumption, it’s about interaction and love.

Given the mention of consumerism, what consumes most of your attention or time?

Lottermann&Fuentes: If eating falls under the question of consumption then definitely food, otherwise social media is quite clear. We both try not to waste time with it and do nicer things in the time. But of course we still catch ourselves doing it. The desire to just leave my phone behind is still great. 

“4 eyes and 2 hearts simply see and feel twice as much.”

-Lottermann & Fuentes

How does the use of two cameras enhance your ability to capture a moment from multiple perspectives?

Lottermann&Fuentes: We have two cameras and four eyes means always looking at the object from 2 different directions. You have a situation with two points of view. However, we often shoot from the same angle, but there is still a small difference. We have more material to choose from. That makes it interesting for customers, of course. 

What strengths do each of you bring to your projects?

Lottermann&Fuentes: We don’t really have different strengths, at least in terms of technology. Otherwise, everyone has their own special features. This is our double trouble secret.

Can you reveal a behind-the-scenes glimpse into your process of selecting and matching images for the ‘Ping Pong’?

Lottermann&Fuentes: Once we have the selection of artists we like, we look at their work and create the first impression. Then we send a photo of ourselves which we have specially selected or specially produced for the respective artist. We always try to get into the person’s head before we send a photo. But as explained before, it doesn’t take much time, we have a good feeling for it. Then we wait excitedly for the artist’s answer. That’s the best part of the project. You wait for the answer to your dear letter.