ARNO ELIAS PHOTOGRAPHY

The artist uses photography and hand-painted photography to explore philosophical discussions about culture, humanity, and wildlife, drawing inspiration from his diverse experiences and extensive travels across various continents. This selection of Elias’ work reflects his desire to preserve the originality of the natural world and the indigenous and ancient cultures that still exist.

He emphasizes the simplicity and purity of the lives of indigenous peoples, who are deeply connected to their environment and rely on its natural resources for survival. Through his photographs of people, wildlife, and fleeting moments, Arno captures the relationships and connections that ignite his spirit. This journey has deepened his appreciation for humanity and heightened his awareness of the power and beauty found in diverse cultures and the natural world.

Painted Photography

Photography

The Lost series is an ongoing film and photography project that showcases the unique and endangered cultures of the world. In the twenty-first century, globalization and technology have become dominant themes. However, we must ask: is globalization and technology a positive change, or are they jeopardizing the diversity that enriches our world? As cultures become more homogeneous, we risk losing the distinct traditions and artistic expressions that make each community special and worth exploring.

This series highlights various cultures and tribes as the last living links to the ancient roots of human civilization. Their unique cultural practices and beliefs provide a window into a world that is vastly different from our own. These communities are a testament to the incredible resilience and adaptability of the human spirit. They offer valuable lessons in the importance of cultural diversity.

*Wild and untamed animals only

Arno Elias

Born in Paris France, Arno Elias is a French American multi-talented Artist, Painter, Photographer, Musician and Activist.

For the past 30 years, Arno's driving passion has been to explore innovative ways to create with diverse media, The non-careerist approach he adopts has substantially enriched his creativity and contributed to a profound sense of artistic freedom.

Work

The artist utilizes photography and hand-painted photography to explore philosophical discussions about culture, humanity, and wildlife. Since 2007, Arno Elias has exhibited his work internationally and has participated in numerous prestigious art fairs and galleries across North America, Europe, and Asia.

In 2022, Elias chose to pause his art career to focus on creating a film/documentary that spans 26 different countries.

Before transitioning to a successful visual artist, Arno Elias made an indelible mark in the music industry by composing and producing over 100 songs and numerous albums. His final album, Buddha Bar Nature, released in 2004, continues to resonate with audiences today, showcasing his lasting influence as his music is celebrated and played around the globe.

He has produced and composed notable songs such as "Amor Amor" and "Corazon." Additionally, he composed the musical score for a United Nations campaign for UNICEF titled "For Every Child," collaborating with recording artist Shakira. Elias was also selected by Brigitte Bardot to create music for the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, which aims to protect animals from abuse.

Early life

As the son of a professional musician, Arno began attending music school at a young age. He started playing the guitar, drums, and piano at 12, and quickly honed his skills as a songwriter. At 18, Arno enter the fashion industry as a model in Paris, becoming the face of a worldwide campaign for fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier. Working with renowned photographers like Mario Testino greatly influenced his artistic direction and fueled his passion for photography.

Activism

I'M NOT A TROPHY

In 2016, Elias created the worldwide campaign "I'M NOT A TROPHY" dedicated to creating greater awareness of the rapid extinction of endangered species, around the world. For the campaign, Elias created a series of photographs with fashion icon and actress Cara Delevingne and singer Suki Waterhouse. The awareness initiative achieved worldwide recognition, featured in outlets such as Vogue, Harpers Bazaar, Marie Claire, The Times, El Pais, and Paris Match to name a few.

In September 2019, Elias was invited to speak at the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he discussed animal welfare and sustainable development.

In 2018, "I'M NOT A TROPHY" began collaborating with the art publisher YellowKorner to further raise funds and awareness for the cause. This partnership featured a series of unsigned photo poster editions offered at affordable prices, reproducing the original painted photography. YellowKorner boasts a global network of 130 galleries and attracts millions of visitors each year.

The "I'M NOT A TROPHY" initiative has also formed partnerships with various brands, personalities, and wildlife organizations.