José Morraja: Madrid Multi-tasker.

Although I wouldn’t quite describe myself as an entirely redundant oaf, I’m no productive multi-tasker either, unlike the subject of this post who not only busies himself with fashion photography, but also somehow sources the time to make some of the most exciting fashion films I’ve seen, as well as art direct on projects from interdisciplinary projects to festivals.

Phew. No wonder, then, that it took José Morraja a few extra days to answer the lengthy list of questions I sent over in preparation for this Q+A. Having earned his BA in Valencia, Spain, Morraja has seen his work featured in big-time pubs like Harper’s Bazaar and has been commissioned for brands as disparate as Diesel and Mustang. It’s not difficult to see why; Morraja’s propensity for eclecticism and his evident enthusiasm both resonate in the works he produces, from a documentary on youth in Berlin to his latest endeavour – a photo and video shoot for the v. swish Spanish Neo2 magazine, which is equal parts sexy, forceful and disorientating.

Naturally, I wanted to know a little bit more…

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“In Your Room” by José Morraja for Neo2 Magazine feat. clothing by Luis Manteiga, styled by Leticia Orúe

MM: What drew you to film and photography?

JM: Photography and film are my ways of showing my feelings. I like to understand my work in an artistic way, using concepts and techniques close from different disciplines such as sculpture, performance and installation.

So, if you want to know more about myself, you have to first understand my work.

MM: Which medium do you prefer?


JM: Each medium has its own language, so it’s always very exciting to talk about the same concept via different forms. I think both of them are really important and are necessary in order for me to create interesting stories.

[vimeo http://www.vimeo.com/17154068 w=400&h=225]

“About Young People in Berlin” by José Morraja for Jet Lag BIO 10 Festival, styling by Leticia Orúe

MM: Did you study to become a filmmaker/photographer?


JM: I studied Fine Arts. When I was studying in France I understood that fashion is more than a brand or a business, it’s a social feeling that we should investigate and talk about. Because of that I’ve always been interested in finding a perfect balance between art and fashion in my projects.

MM: What’s been your favourite project so far?

JM: I’ve got very good memories of my most recent project,“In Your Room” for Neo2 Magazine. It was really important for my own evolution as a photographer and filmmaker. I’ve found a new way to develop new concepts in fashion because of this.

^ From the “In Your Room” photoshoot

MM: What’s been the highlight of your career so far?


JM: 2010 was a really good year for my life and career. After living in Berlin for one year, I decided to move to Madrid. Now I’m working in very interesting projects and magazines. Neo2 has been really supportive and they engage in risky projects that nobody else would publish. I’m very proud of that.

MM: Have there been any surreal moments that stand out so far in your career?


JM: Thinking about a new and crazy project is the most surreal and exciting moment in my life. I’m fascinated by how the mind puts all one’s thoughts together and creates a new story. That’s amazing!

MM: Do you have a favourite menswear designer?

JM: I’m obsessed with Karlota Laspalas’ clothes. In my opinion, she’s the best menswear designer in Spain nowadays. She’s found the perfect way to show a contemporary man and mixes romantic and sophisticated concepts in her work. I can really identify with her style.

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See more of Morraja’s work here.