ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Jeff Wall on Photography, Observation, and Illusion

artist · 2026-04-27

In a video interview with Artribune, Canadian photographer Jeff Wall discusses his approach to image-making. Wall, born in Vancouver in 1946, describes his work as simple and direct, yet meticulously composed. He emphasizes the importance of being "observant," finding satisfaction in looking at everyday objects like trees, faces, or sidewalks. Wall explains that the camera creates a wonderful illusion, so similar to natural vision that it gives the impression of looking through a surface. The interview explores his unique ability to see and show the world, resulting in images that carry an inexplicable visual power.

Key facts

  • Jeff Wall is a Canadian photographer born in Vancouver in 1946.
  • The interview was published by Artribune.
  • Wall describes his photographs as simple and direct but meticulously composed.
  • He uses the word 'observant' to describe his attitude.
  • Wall finds satisfaction in observing everyday objects.
  • He states the camera creates an illusion similar to natural vision.
  • The interview covers Wall's ability to 'see' and 'show' the world.
  • The interview is in video format.

Entities

Artists

  • Jeff Wall

Institutions

  • Artribune

Locations

  • Vancouver
  • Canada

Sources