Alma Desnudo: a new photography book uncovers Ibiza’s naked soul.
Drawn to Ibiza’s natural beauty and sense of freedom, Dutch photographer Eric van den Elsen was inspired to go back to basics with his recent book.
How did your interest in photography develop?
I saw the work from the Dutch photographer Anton Corbijn when I was 18 and I knew I wanted to become a photographer. It inspired me to study the craft further and at that time we were shooting on film and I really enjoyed the process of developing my photographs in the dark room. I started assisting a photographer for almost five years and then a magazine saw some of my work and gave me my first job in Los Angeles and from that moment, I started travelling and creating stories for fashion magazines and brands.
Which publications do you work with?
I have worked for magazines such as Vogue, Elle and Marie Claire in Italy, Germany and Holland for almost 35 years. I really enjoy working in Italy - I like the mentality there - very creative and open to new ideas. They also have a relaxed way of working - arrive in the morning, drink an espresso and then see what we're going to do.
What is your relationship with Ibiza?
Over the years many of my clients have sent me to Ibiza for photo shoots, I love the light and the energy of the island. But I also love to come to the island to relax as well.
Could you explain a little about your project, Alma Desnuda?
The project started as I wanted to capture the essence of natural beauty, so no make-up, no styling and in the end no clothes. I just wanted to go back to basics. I chose to shoot in Ibiza because I always feel free there and I get a lot of inspiration on the island. I started with different models but in the end I worked with the same one for almost five years. Gabriella was born on the island and always felt completely comfortable, even when other people were around. We had a great connection and every shoot was an amazing surprise. I showed the pictures to a great gallery in Amsterdam and immediately they said that we had to make a book out of the project.
What are you working on now?
I’m busy now with a documentary project in Havana, pictures of women on the streets, capturing real moments, like in the book by Garry Winogrand – Women are Beautiful. I have spent a lot of time in Cuba over the years and it's comparable with Ibiza - the way of life, the relaxed feeling, the people and the beautiful light. I love to be alone with my camera walking the streets and taking pictures – to capture a moment in time.
Images from Alma Desnuda will be on display at Atzaró Agrotursmo Hotel from 21st August until 30th August and at Aubergine by Atzaró from 8th October until 30th October
