Elaine Sanders — Digital Images
prologue
digital image | 2020
in medias res
digital image | 2020
resolution
digital image | 2020
Tale of the Tragedian
Growing up an only child, I became an observer. I learned to pass time by watching people interact, noticing interesting colors and textures, and by making connections on how the world works. By working in the photographic medium, I can capture my observations. In much of my digital work I focus intently on expression and gesture as these are reflections of internal emotions on the outward physical body. In my analogue film photography, I tend to focus much more on shape and value rather than a subject. My background in black and white 35mm photography has directly impacted my digital and color film photography as I focus on using color to affect my work, often converting my photos to black and white when the color is not adding to the composition. My work in graphic design influences my photography as well and can be seen most directly in my studio photography. In this work I use the backdrop to simplify the scene and draw the viewer to the emotion of the subject.
Art was not on Elaine Sanders’ roadmap early in life; she was set to follow in her father’s footsteps and pursue a career in the life sciences. During high school she was a part of the BioScience Academy where she was rigorously trained in medical and lab techniques. From this training, Sanders developed an eye for accuracy and attention to detail which she directly applies to her work. Sanders’ methodology is informed by the scientific method, something that has been ingrained in her since childhood as she was raised by analytical and logical parents.
Sanders has travelled to five of the seven world continents, exposing her to a wide range of cultures and perspectives. From her travels she has gained a spark for sharing stories, especially those that are not often seen or heard. Much of her work is focused on sharing stories in a manner that allows her audience to relate even though they may be hundreds of miles away in location and perspective.
Both science and travel directly feed into Sanders’ passion of respecting the natural world. She is intrigued by the juxtaposition of natural and built environments which can be seen in many of her photographs.
Sanders is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in art with a concentration in photography and graphic design at California State University, Northridge, helping to inform her passion for communication and the arts.
Check out more of her work on her Instagram @elaine_sanders