CREATING IN LOCKDOWN WITH NONNY B
Meet Nonny B (aka Nynno), an artist and photographer who we're grateful to be able to collaborate with here at Obus.
With a penchant for exploring global culture through the arts, she gains inspiration and insight from the world’s vibrant subcultures. We caught up with Nonny to see how she's maintained her sense of creativity during lockdown and share her latest single, 'Defeat'.
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Earlier this year you shot our OLANA x OBUS collaboration - which seems like a lifetime ago now - tell us what it’s like to work with other creatives?
As a freelance photographer, time in between people-based shoots can be a bit isolating. So working with other creatives is a great opportunity to connect with like-minded people and get inspired.
The OLANA x OBUS collaboration was a great one to be part of because there were so many parts to it; Olana had his process for creating his masterpieces, Team Obus had their method of taking that work and making it wearable, then I took that work and helped to create some imagery.
Where do you get your inspiration for singing, songwriting and photography?
From everything and everywhere. I like to observe the world around me, whether that’s through documentary, music, my culture, personal life or the accounts of those closest to me.
With music, I like to let ideas swirl around in my head, sometimes I’ll reflect on my own experiences or give other people’s stories alternate endings. In the future, I’m hoping I can learn to challenge myself more by writing lyrics that are so outrageously far from myself and my personality, like a personal ghostwriting exercise.
Photography tends to be a bit more collaborative, so I often bear in mind the aim of the shoot and the skills of the people I’m working on the project with. I also try to see if there’s an opportunity with every shoot, to create something that challenges me technically and well as creatively.
Thanks for sharing your new single ‘DEFEAT' with us via IGTV [Watch here], tell us what it's about?
It’s mostly about walking away from the irreconcilable differences in a relationship. It speaks on the desire to allow for vulnerability but also reflects on the importances of knowing and respecting your personal boundaries.
How have you been keeping your momentum going during the Melbourne lockdown?
I’ve enjoyed certain aspects of isolation - having time to reflect, take in art and media, go on walks and create.
I’ve tried to embrace relaxation but I also have a slight fear of developing mental atrophy from extensive periods of inactivity [haha]. Ultimately I’ve maintained momentum by trying to keep balance in mind - making sure I’m productive with my time but also resting when I need to. You have to be kind but also honest with yourself.
What are you looking forward to the most this Summer?
Beers in the park. And hugging friends and family.
ABOUT NONNY B AKA NYNNO
Nynno Bel-Air Melbourne-based photographer, specialising in fashion, portraiture and social content.
She is also a creative singer and songwriter who is quickly becoming known for her broody brand of R&B. With verses that are paradoxical, her music delivery decidedly relatable themes in a casually esoteric yet playful way reminiscent of the soulful divas she's inspired by.
Get in touch via her website or follow her on Spotify.
Instagram: @nynnobelair
Website: Get in touch via her website or follow her on Spotify.
Nynno wears Obus Aster Wrap Dress. Image + Video courtesy of Nynno Bel-Air.