Eliza Ollinger
The camera is an instrument that teaches people to see without a camera.
- Dorothea Lange
My work delves into the intricate connection between people and their environments. My images explore the deep narratives embedded in both rural and urban landscapes, capturing the beauty, resilience, and heritage of the spaces we inhabit. I work with a thoughtful and intuitive approach and seek to reveal the stories that shape our surroundings and how they reflect our collective identity.
In my exploration of rural settings, I work to highlight the enduring spirit of communities and the evolving relationship between tradition and modernity. My series documenting the Appalachian region, for instance, offers a heartfelt glimpse into the region's cultural legacy and the people who sustain it. Whether focusing on a quiet moment in nature or a bustling human environment, I invite viewers to reflect on the rhythms and textures of life.
My urban photography extends this narrative by uncovering beauty in unexpected places. My work in cities like Detroit reveals a poignant juxtaposition of architectural heritage and urban decay, encouraging viewers to see beyond the surface to the histories and resilience within. I work to use my lens as a tool to inspire deeper connections with the world around us, celebrating the enduring power of place and the stories that connect us all.