⚠️ This episode contains discussion of distressing topics including animal cruelty and mistreatment in the racing and hunting industries.
Can beautiful photography change hearts and minds about rescue dogs? Elena Marchi, the award-winning photographer behind Pawtiqe, believes it can.
With a unique monochrome approach, Elena creates elegant, minimalistic black and white portraits that celebrate the subtle art of being a dog in London.
After several failed greyhound adoption attempts, Elena is committed to raising awareness around these dogs and their potential for adaptability, showing how they can thrive in urban environments if they are given the chance.
As an animal welfare advocate, Elena believes that "dog is art" and treats every subject with the same care and reverence as any fine art portrait.
Her work highlights the individuality of each dog, embracing their imperfections and quirks, while stripping away the unnecessary - including colour - to let them take centre stage.
In this episode, we explore Elena's journey from university photography student to creating stunning portraits that treat every dog as a living masterpiece.
Her current project photographs adopted greyhounds and galgos across London's boroughs, using art to advocate for animal welfare.
We also explore how her upcoming book aims to raise awareness without showing distressing images, and the therapeutic power of slowing down and working at a dog's pace.
Elena's work goes beyond traditional pet photography. She's creating collector's pieces that celebrate dogs as the sentient beings they truly are, whilst raising funds for Project Galgo rescue charity.
Find Elena: @pawtiqe on social media | www.pawtiqe.com