Eltaj Zeynalov
My choice of subject comes from my interest in sociology; I want to create a kind of sensual directness in my artwork through primeval emotions while addressing issues within memory, eros, mortality and pain.
Eltaj Zeynalov was born in Azerbaijan in 1986. He began photography as a dilettante; he then became more enthusiastic in that field. He creates imagery around his own city where he grew up. Zeynalov is very active in social issues and has worked with communities suffering from physical and cognitive disadvantages. Currently he is working on personal long-term projects, corporate and editorial work.
My artwork deals with human emotions mostly. My choice of subject comes from my interest in sociology and I want to create a kind of sensual directness in my artwork such as primeval emotions while addressing issues like memory, eros, mortality and pain. When I take a photo of someone I try to be close to their own feelings. By using ambiguous, trimmed views of the human body, I hope to tap into the powerful uncertainties of pleasure and pain in my artwork aiming to help people examine their own erratic emotions. Why did I choose to photograph these things? Fear, laughter, passion, pain, love – all are beyond explaining and yet are everyday experiences shared by all of us.
Can you tell us more about your artistic practice?
I began as an amateur photographer and made significant progress within a short period of time. I photograph what I know and aim to improve my practice. After I gained experience in practice I began participating in exhibitions which helped with getting my work out there, my practice and artwork improved. I live in Azerbaijan; living conditions and life here is not easy. I’m not a pessimistic about my situation; I’m constantly trying new things here and developing my practice. Right now I’m working on a few social projects and some commercial projects. Most of my work is not centred around local issues currently and my exhibitions are mostly organised abroad.
What inspires your work in general?
Mostly different people inspire me. I think they’re all books to be read.
How does your work touch on mental illness?
A lot of my work is about mental illness in some form. I think of myself as a social activist here in Azerbaijan; there are a lot of issues in my country concerning prejudice around these mental health. People tend to see what they want or feel comfortable with, things that won’t disturb them. I’m trying to change this through my work. There is pain alongside disturbing themes in my work. I have received a lot of criticism for my work which is considered controversial where I’m from, but it has not demoralised me. Here people suffering are ignored with little to no effort made to better their lives, at times even making their living conditions far worse.
Any words for aspiring photographers, artists and journalists?
Photography is difficult to master. Right now everybody with a camera or a smartphone with camera has the potential to be a photographer making the art more accessible. I think it is harder now than ever to make work that stands out. I would say pay attention to self-improvement, never give up, educate yourself. This is how you can reach your goals.
Can you say more about the ethereal qualities within your imagery?
Every person has their own, individual look to the world and life. The camera is just a tool. Sometimes I feel it is impossible to show you what I see using photography and a camera, because of this I’m always looking for new ways of expressing a theme. Energy, people and myself as the photographer - this is vital for me within my practice. Via photography I can travel to intangible thought and feeling. The camera is my spacecraft and I, the captain.
More @ eltajzeynalov.tumblr.com & instagram.com/eltaj___
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