Clubber Spotlight: Elliot Dennison

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  • Elliot Dennison

We caught up with Dazed Clubber Elliot Dennison about one of his latest projects 'Euphoric Pain', and how horror films are an important source of inspiration in his work

"My name is Elliot Dennison, I’m a photographer, filmmaker, and creative director located in London. My work predominantly focuses on merging spirituality and horror into one. I'm fascinated by the intersection of reality and fantasy, believing we encounter this crossover momentarily within our daily experiences, which I strive to recapture. Drawing from my Buddhist upbringing, I weave in spiritual concepts of liberation, redemption, and purity and juxtapose them against horror visuals of vacant liminal areas, blood, and ghosts.

‘Euphoric Pain’ is a project about reaching hedonistic enlightenment. The subject (musician Sofy Bilaya) is overexposed leaving just her silhouette, the obstruction of her form reflects how the hunt for euphoria can obscure and even erase ones identity.

In my creative process, I find my main inspiration from horror movies. For me the provocative visuals and narratives relate to the same sensibilities related to successful fashion photography; both requiring something striking and attention-grabbing. My relationship with horror films has always been turbulent. I vividly recall being traumatised at a young age while watching Ju On: The Grudge (2002). This initial trauma evolved into a morbid fascination that now significantly influences my creative approach.

I have a background in capturing the essence of underground music scenes in London through documentation. My passion lies in photojournalism, with a particular focus on the ever-evolving subcultures within niche microcosms.

I am showcasing my latest project, 'Making Sense of Disaster,' at the Greatorex Street gallery from June 20th to 22nd. This signifies the beginning of a new chapter in my journey, one that I plan to expand by organising additional collaborative events in the future."

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