G'DAY, GRÜEZI, HALLO!

Photography as a tool.

For many children, the 'I spy with my little eye' game was an early introduction to infinite exploration, turning our daily lives into a game. Those making unique discoveries and remaining patient were rewarded with seeing their surroundings in a fresh light. You may not have noticed at the time, but that simple pastime gifted you a lot more than your parents could have hoped for as they desperately tried to keep you occupied on long-winded journeys through life.

On a similar note, a camera is not only a tool that can freeze moments. It is a frame that helps us discover our surroundings, deliberately choose what to focus on and be surprised by what we may discover in doing so. What sits behind the camera is just as important as the scenery beyond its lens - if not more important. All of us view the world through a lens that has been shaped by a unique blend of experiences, motivation, emotions and energy. No two days are the same - neither for our environment, nor for us.

Research has increasingly shown that photographs are not objective means of documentation. Though we like to believe what we see, and can pretty safely say whatever was captured is 'real', the many subconscious or conscious thoughts and actions that led to choosing a certain setting remain a mystery to an outside observer. We may be limited or empowered by the angles we can physically shoot from, the equipment we are privy to using or the places we are welcome to visit.

One way to gain an increased understanding of what story (or stories) a photograph may tell is to add language. Or music. Or more photographs. Or anything else you can think of. To explain and interactively discuss. To leave room for fresh perspectives. To remember that every shot was taken at a unique place and time - in a moment that will never, ever return again. One that remains exclusive to that exact version of people, processes and places involved at the time. The same counts for the interpretation - no two viewings of a photograph are the same. Knowledge, feelings, emotions, contexts, lighting, memories, and so much more changes constantly, giving you a chance to discover a new story every time.

If you are interested in reading more about the use of photography in research, have a sneak peak at my thesis on 'Photography as a Methodological Tool in Children's Geographies' which I wrote back in uni.

A lifelong meander.

Having introduced you to some of the aspects that may guide our eyes and photography, I should probably also say hi personally and let you in on where I am coming from in creating art.

I have been lucky to call many places home throughout my life. As you may have already concluded, the majority of stories I have explored are based in Zurich, the Swiss Alps and Sydney. These places lay the groundwork for who I am today and continue to capture the majority of my attention. Nevertheless, I have been fortunate to carry my camera beyond those backyards and continue to chase angles all over our globe.

Moving between countries and communities, landscapes and traditions, I found a constant in my photography. In familiar places, my camera gave me a reason to go out, to see what else I could find, to get to know my homes down to the smallest details. It pushed me to see something seemingly familiar in a new light. It allowed me to filter everyday noise, to clean up a messy world, to focus solely on one thing for a change. In new, foreign or intimidating spaces, it held my hand exploring. It gave me a justification to be curious, a sense of belonging and a responsibility to look beyond the most familiar corners. Carrying it feels like a commitment to telling the story of a place, preferably from as many angles as possible.

My long-standing love for the outdoors, natural forces and science led me to pursue a degree in Geography and Geospatial Analysis. The world of satellite imagery and mapping opened my eyes to the possibility of combining art and science for the first time. Since, I have continued to pursue projects at the intersection of education & emotion, science & society and the visual & visceral.

A big part of both art and science is connecting - the dots, the people, the processes, the places. I am always grateful and excited to be able to find spaces to learn and share, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you feel the same way.

Stay curious, Ellen