From Toronto’s Punk Scene to the Global Stage: My Creative Journey

Hello, friends. I’m Elena, a photographer, designer, and now, podcaster. I originally hail from Toronto, Canada and while I have lived and traveled all around the globe, I currently call Philadelphia, PA home. It’s been an amazing ride, and I wanted to take a moment to share my story and the experiences that have shaped me as an artist. If you’re a fellow creative or music lover, you’ll probably relate to the passion that fuels everything I do. Music—particularly punk—has always been at the heart of my creativity, and that’s where it all started.

The Toronto Days: 1996–2001

In 1996, I moved to Toronto to attend the Ontario College of Art & Design, where I quickly became immersed in the city’s electrifying punk scene. It was gritty, raw, and filled with a sense of rebellion that I couldn’t ignore. Punk wasn't just a genre; it was a lifestyle, an attitude, a “fuck you” to the norm. I wanted to be a part of that energy. Little did I know, that energy would shape me into the artist I am today.

I was hooked. I started photographing shows like it was a religion. Like a lot of my peers, I started shooting the local Toronto music scene, bands like Jersey and Grade, who would ultimately go on to sign to Victory Records, solidifying them as hometown legends. But it was around '98 when I met someone who would become an important part of my journey: Dan Burke.

The Elmo and the Rise of a Creative Partnership

If you grew up in Toronto during a particular era, it's likely you've attended a show at The El Mocambo (also known as The Elmo). This iconic venue was more than just a spot for live performances—it was a center for some of the city's most legendary and emerging bands. I was there almost every night, camera in hand, capturing the chaos, energy, and raw passion of the bands.

It wasn’t long before Dan Burke, the venue's concert promoter and music icon, took an interest in my work. What started as me snapping photos in the pit turned into a full-access pass to shoot any show at The Elmo. All Dan asked in return was a print from each show, which he could display in the venue.

Some of my most visceral memories from that chaotic era were spent capturing the electric chaos of shows like The Toilet Boys, Dee Ramone, the Lower East Side Stitches, and The Donnas. These were the shows that made me fall even deeper in love with the raw energy of punk and more importantly, they gave me the chance to connect with a community of artists and musicians who would shape my creative path for years to come.

The Evolution of My Creative Work

While the world of punk rock photography will always be a part of who I am, my journey as an artist has been a constantly evolving one. Over the years, I’ve moved from capturing live shows to designing artwork for bands, including some heavy hitters like Face To Face and Off With Their Heads. My art has branched out from photography to graphic design, and I’ve had the honor of showcasing my work alongside iconic artists like Shepard Fairey and Jim (T.A.Z.) Evans. But, as with most creatives, the work never really stops evolving. Recently, I’ve felt the pull to step into a new realm—podcasting. It feels like the next natural step for me, not only to share my journey but to give others a platform to tell their own stories.

The Call for an Anthology

As my work continues to evolve, I often look back on the images and moments I’ve captured over the years. Many of these photographs have never seen the light of day—except for a few that I’ve shared with close friends or collaborators. A part of me has always hesitated to publish an anthology, but as a longtime friend recently told me, “You should really consider putting it out there.”

So, here’s the thing: I’m starting to think that maybe it’s time. Time to gather the best of my photographs, the stories, and the moments that shaped me as an artist—and share them with the world. It's a project I’m slowly working on, and one that will, I hope, give a glimpse into the vibrant and unforgettable world of late ’90s and early 2000s punk rock.

What’s Next?

As I step into this new chapter with my podcast, the goal is simple: to keep pushing boundaries, to stay true to my roots, and to continue building a community of like-minded creatives. Whether I’m behind the lens, designing album covers, or interviewing punk legends on my show, I want to keep the spirit of music and art alive.

And who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll hear my voice alongside some of your favorite punk rockers.

Thanks for reading. Let’s keep creating, sharing, and pushing the limits of what art can do.

— Elena