Fashion photography is a massive deal, a huge massive big deal. Thats why i chose to study it at Leeds Arts University for the next three years. The way in which fashion based imagery is plastered everywhere in our society is both groundbreaking and completely progressive within the art movement and I’ve always wanted to be a part of that. My name is Elle, or Ell for short and i’m currently 18 years old, i’m originally from a North-Eastern coastal town called Hartlepool. Which although lovely and homely, isn’t the most inspiring of places, hence why i moved to Leeds in September.
In regards to my work, i love producing images that make the viewer uncomfortable or on edge. I get a rush from seeing peoples initial reactions and their later understanding of what i have produced. The work i tend to enjoy creating does usually have a political or socially relevant concept. For example, creating visuals that represent the taboo surrounding the topic of female masturbation. The aim is to bring these uncomfortable topics into the forefront of society by shocking the viewers with just as uncomfortable images. My main inspiration for my work is Alexander McQueen. In particular, his A/W 1995 collection, Highland Rape (reference images seen underneath blog). This show completely shocked audiences, yet the concept was not created with malicious intent nor was it created to poke fun at rape victims. It was a way of highlighting an uncomfortable yet very real issue that happens daily and in every part of the world. It caught the attention of many fashion houses and although sad to see, it made a statement that is still remembered nowadays. It is simply iconic due to its connotations, which is what i aim for when planning my imagery.
In short, i am inspired by the strange and the sexual. I love anything that has a sexual undertone and carries an anti-conservative message. One day i hope to be as big a name as McQueen, a big dream i am aware. However i feel that if something is hoped and wished for enough, it may become a reality.
I find beauty in the grotesque, like most artists.- Alexander McQueen
Highland Rape, 1995, Alexander McQueen.
ELL, FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY 