Camden News - by TOM FOOT Published: 18 December 2008
Light fantastic: Artist Luka Mustapic captured in one of his artworks on the Heath
Night exposure: Flaming good pictures
HE is known as the “human fireball” and his spectacular images have been described as “genius” by his fans.
But Luka Mustapic – the Banksy of the night sky – owes a debt to the unique environs of Hampstead Heath.
With friends Owen Cutts and Luke Gardiner, the talented 29-year-old has kick-started an after-dark photography craze in the ancient wood and dozens are queuing up for a space on his weekly “painting with light” courses, held in secret Heath locations.
Mr Mustapic (pictured top right), a professional dog-walker and former pupil of William Ellis School in Highgate, said: “We use torches and bike lights and put the camera on a slow exposure. It’s just a cheap camera from Asda – it cost £75.
“It only really works when there is a full moon – that’s when you get the best shots.”
He added: “The Heath is the only place in London where there is no light pollution and the sky is bright at night.
“That’s the beauty of the Heath – there’s a KFC down the road but it feels like you’re in the middle of the country.”