David Ellingsen photographs people for the advertising, editorial and corporate markets with a strong focus on contemporary portraiture and active lifestyle. His work has attracted commissions from publications such as the New York Times Magazine, Marie Claire, Men’s Health, and People. In the advertising and corporate markets he has partnered with clients such as DDB, MTV/Nickelodeon, BC Place Stadium, Translink, BC Hydro and the David Suzuki Foundation.
David also commits substantial time to his fine art collections. While a departure from his commercial work, they are motivated from the same point of departure and the photographs have evolved to a place of subtle commentary on society’s contemporary values. Two solo exhibitions in the US and the attendance as a guest artist at the Lishui International Photography Festival in China are recent highlights.
David is originally from Cortes Island, a small community of 1000 residents off the coast of British Columbia, where he was raised surrounded by his hard working family on an organic farm, a few draft dodgers and the other free spirits and independent thinkers on the island. This unique upbringing made clear the importance of pairing quality with practicality, people with the environment and the individual with the communal. These values inform David’s working life to this day, not only through his photographs, but his support of industry associations, mentor-ship programs and various charities.
Through his studio, donations of fine art work, photo assignments and financial consideration have been made to the following organizations to support fund-raising initiatives. If you would like further information on getting involved with any of these organizations please contact David or click on a title to be redirected to the organization’s website.
__
CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY
Two in five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer during their lifetime.
The Diamond Ball is one of the Canadian Cancer Society’s signature fund-raising events. This stunning themed black-tie dinner, dance and auction has become a leading date in Vancouver’s social diaries and always sells out fast. This annual event has raised more than $5.5 million dollars since it began in 1997.
__
UNITE WITH ART
A series of art auctions to benefit UNICEF’s Unite for Children, Unite against AIDS campaign. Each event will showcase high profile regional and national artists in several mediums. Through the generous contribution of artists, galleries and volunteers, Unite with Art aims to donate 100% of the art proceeds to this UNICEF campaign.
__
YALETOWN HOUSE
Yaletown House is a non-profit care facility for seniors with complex care. They provide health care and services to 130 elderly residents in a safe, supportive and home like environment.
__
CAPIC
The Canadian Association of Photographers and Illustrators in Communication is a national, not-for-profit association dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the rights and interests of photographers, illustrators and digital artists, working in the communications industry.
__
CANADIAN BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION
The leading national volunteer-based organization in Canada dedicated to creating a future without breast cancer.
__
PLAN
Plan (formerly Foster Parents Plan) is one of the world’s largest development organizations, working in more than 65 countries worldwide on critical issues affecting millions of children.
__
JHR
Journalists for Human Rights is an organization harnessing the power of the media to combat Human Rights abuses.
__
WINTER FAMILY BALL
An annual Vancouver Gala Fine Art charity auction from North Shore Family Services, supporting the Safer Places Initiative which focuses on stopping the cycle of family violence and abuse.
__
ART+
An annual gallery event donating partial proceeds to local organizations providing services for those affected by HIV/AIDS