Ellis Lau believes that fashion models are not merely tools used to present the image, but rather co-creators and stakeholders in the process. He wants to overturn the existing practice/concepts. Photographers have traditionally been seen as the dominant figure, with a strong sense of self-presentation, while models are often treated as the objectified subject, whose consciousness is rarely discussed or easily overlooked. But in his creative process, he hopes there is a dynamic interplay between the two. The models' autonomous emotions and reactions brought into the frame can also be a form of latent dominance, where they assert their own power and influence the direction of the work. They are co-creators.
On one hand, the camera can be a weapon, like the nails on a painting, where the photographer's gaze transmits a kind of oppressive fabrication, interpreting the subject from a position of superiority. On the other hand, by gazing into the lens, the models' eyes convey a certain aggressive power. This intuitive emotional expression is a clash of power between the photographer and the subject, a contradiction that breaks through the confines of the photographic frame.
A series of photographs imbued with tension and soul cannot be achieved solely through the photographer's control. It also requires the vivid, authentically-felt emotions from the subject, in order to create a truly three-dimensional work. The distribution of power in photography can be a two-way flow, like a tug-of-war, where only through the mutual pulling and pushing can tension be cultivated and a dynamic, non-formulaic work be created. Exploring the roles, power dynamics and their fluidity between the two parties is what he hopes to investigate through his work.
Ellis Lau (b. 2000, Hong Kong) recently received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology/Hong Kong Art School.