The subjects of Angeleno photographer Mike Miller are icons of the West Coast Hip Hop scene, iconic supermodels and musicians. Miller’s oeuvre lies in the cultural historical roots of California when Tupac’s music invigorated the 90’s music soundscape and album art was still coveted. Installation includes images from Miller’s recent book West Coast Hip Hop, A History in Pictures.
Why did you decide to pursue your artistic practice on the West Coast?
My wife and I are from Los Angeles and decided to raise our family here. This is home base, but my photo shoots are worldwide.
Why not New York?
I was flown to New York many times for work. The first time Sony Music flew me to shoot an album cover for Jill Sobule. I remember bugging out on the plane ride, but I knew the biggest photographers are based out of NY.
What do you find distracting about your urban environment?
Traffic!
What do you feel is unique to your city? most appealing about your city?
The Cali lifestyle! The variety of locations.
What do you find most appealing about New York?
The people… the condensed multicultural population. They keep it real!
What artists have influenced your practice the most?
Javier Vallhonrat, Paolo Reversi, Nick Night, Mert & Marcus. The street artist from Los Angeles paint the walls and I use them as my backdrops.
Images from West Coast Hip Hop: A History In Pictures
Images courtesy of the artist
THE 20+20 PHOTOGRAPHY ISSUE
Mike Miller is featured within Installation Magazine’s special 20+20 Photography Issue, which highlighted 20 Los Angeles and 20 New York City photographers. Download the full issue on your iPad and iPhone.