Interview: Renato Cruz Santos, more layers than a Viennetta ice cream
Fisherman, diver, connoisseur of the Portuguese coast, photographer, DJ, actor, performer, there are many layers in Renato Cruz Santos.
Born in a small fishing village in the north of the country, Renato Cruz Santos tried to be a fisherman, but photography attracted him more. With three books coming out soon, an illustration about the sea, acting in a film with Tânia Dinis and working with David Bruno as a DJ and performer at his concerts, it's a wonder how he had the time to see us.
A romantic by nature, it’s in his homeland, that he visits constantly, that he draws his strength and from the people his inspiration. From places he relives and wants to show the world.
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in a small fishermen town called Caxinas.
What's your favorite memory?
It is very difficult to turn something into a favorite and it is quite unfair most of the time but due to something I’m working on at the moment I'd say the day my father told and taught me all the coastal rocks local nomenclature.
What would you name your boat if you had one?
Probably I'd follow the trend of fishermen by giving the name of my sons like Paulo Adriana.
What are you most excited about for the future?
NO EXPECTATIONS.
What are the differences and similarities between you and António Bandeiras?
I'd say that their personalities are quite diluted. There’s not much difference. It’s like 'I could easily be this if..'
What do you like to do in your spare time?
I like to go to the beach and watch things move with time.
What's something you've learned recently that completely blows your mind?
Well, I don’t know if it fits but I recently bought an underwater flashlight and started seeing a lot more! Which led me to some new species which is somehow a bit odd but quite stimulating.
Who always makes into your playlists?
The romantic ones.
Choose 5 songs for Darkside.
Erasmo Carlos - Grilos
Brian Eno - Sombre Reptiles
Bill Withers - Lean on Me
Earth, Wind and Fire - Beijo
Kevin Ayers - Puis Je?
What movie character would best describe this time of your life?
If summer extended more and more as sometimes I dream, I could be some Rohmer characters from his 80’s/90’s films.
What's the best advice you ever received?
Pedras no caminho, guardo-as todas.
Renato with our Icarus sunglasses on “David & Miguel - Inatel” videoclip
See his photography work at www.renatocruzsantos.com , as Dj Camembert , António Bandeiras and his personal journal
Also follow the amazing David Bruno and the talented Tânia Dinis