Tina Salipante — juliewang

Through Tina's lens, we may uncover new vistas of understanding, where the beauty of art and the wisdom of literature intertwine to illuminate the path ahead.

Just as Proust’s prose invites readers into a stream of consciousness, Tina’s art serves as a portal to the innermost recesses of the human psyche. With a background in archaeology adding an air of mystery to her artistic endeavors, Tina’s photographs become artifacts of the soul, inviting viewers to embark on an archaeological dig of their own emotions and memories.

Adding to the allure of today’s interview is Tina’s recent achievement as the recipient of an international award, the Tokyo International Foto Awards (TIFA) The Fine Art Portfolio Gold Winner. The breathtaking photographs showcased in this interview hail from her award-winning project, offering us a rare and privileged glimpse into her artistic brilliance before they grace the digital realms of Instagram.

So, as we embark on this captivating journey with Tina Salipante, let us marvel at the magic of art that transcends time and space, and immerse ourselves in the profound beauty of the human experience.

1. Can you introduce yourself and tell us a bit about your journey as an artist using photography as your medium?

I am a self-taught Italian photographer who began her artistic journey several years ago. From the beginning, I have always seen photography as a powerful means of expression, a universal language that transcends language barriers. My background as an archaeologist has greatly influenced my artistic perception. Archeology has taught me to peer beyond the surface, to discover hidden stories and to enhance the cultural significance of every detail. This approach is reflected in my photographs, where I try to capture not only the visible image, but also the depth and story behind it.

Furthermore, my passion for art, cinema and theater has helped shape my visual aesthetic. I love incorporating dramatic elements such as light and shadow but also dreamlike atmospheres. Each shot thus becomes a visual representation that feeds on my multiple passions.

My artistic journey is a journey in search of connections between past and present. Photography becomes a bridge between different art forms, a way to explore the richness of human culture in new and exciting ways.

Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to explore different techniques and styles, and each shot I create is the result of a continuous search for inspiration, artistic challenges and a deep desire to share my unique vision with the world.

2. Your Instagram showcases intricate compositions with natural elements. What inspires your work, and how do you incorporate these inspirations into your photography?

Thanks for your observation and I'm happy to delve further. The complex compositions present in my photographic work are the result of a profound connection with the complexity and richness of the world around us. Trying to avoid repetition, I would like to focus on the "why" of these intricate compositions.

Archeology taught me to observe the world with a careful eye, to grasp hidden details and to appreciate the intrinsic beauty even in things. This perspective is reflected in my images, where I try to capture the history and essence of the subjects, be they natural landscapes or urban elements. My work on Instagram is a sort of visual diary that reflects my ongoing exploration of new perspectives and influences. Nature, with its changing beauty, becomes the stage on which I express my artistic vision, trying to convey the profound connection between human beings and the environment around us.

I try to incorporate elements of composition and storytelling into my photographs, creating images that go beyond mere visual representation. I like to play with light, shadows and natural elements to create compositions that evoke emotions and stimulate reflection. In essence, I try to create complex compositions that are steeped in story, art and storytelling. Each image is a visual story that feeds on my passions and experiences, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world of beauty and meaning.

3.Your artwork appears to be imbued with a recurring theme of time. Could you elaborate on how you explore this theme and its significance in your projects, as well as shed light on the presence of women’s portraits in your compositions?

Time serves as a central element in my artistic exploration. Within my works, I endeavor to encapsulate not only individual moments but also the ephemeral nature of time itself and its profound influence on our perceptions and experiences.

Drawing inspiration from Marcel Proust’s reflections, I integrate the concept of time as a narrative element within my photographs. Proust teaches us that the past is never wholly lost and that memories can be evoked through sensory stimuli. In my imagery, I seek to capture not merely the tangible reality but also the essence of what has been and what is yet to come.

Through the interplay of light, shadows, and natural elements, I craft a visual dialogue between the present and the past. The nuances of light evoke atmospheres reminiscent of memories or reflections on the passage of time. Moreover, the selection of subjects inherently tied to the concept of time, such as landscapes undergoing seasonal transformations or objects steeped in history, further underscores this connection.

Time thus emerges as a common thread weaving through my works, inviting viewers to contemplate the fleetingness of moments and the perpetual evolution of the world around us. Photography, in this context, becomes a means of capturing transient moments, establishing a visual archive of experiences that fade into the past.

In parallel, the recurring presence of portraits of women in my compositions extends beyond individual identities to symbolize the principle of the feminine as a universal concept. These women are not depicted as specific individuals but rather as embodiments of strength, beauty, and resilience.

Each portrait serves as a conduit for exploring the symbiotic relationship between humanity and nature, reflecting the natural cycle of life and its inherent beauty. The inclusion of women in my compositions underscores the intrinsic strength of creativity, intuition, and emotional connectedness with the world.

Ultimately, the presence of women’s portraits in my work underscores the principle of the feminine as a universal force, celebrating its transformative power and emphasizing its integral role in fostering balance and harmony within the world I portray.

4.Among your various projects, could you pick one and delve into the concept behind it? How did you conceive the idea, and what was the process like in bringing it to life?

"Orphic Evanescences" is a project that I conceived with the aim of exploring the fleeting nature of existence through the medium of photography, emphasizing the connection between the Proustian concept of time and the principle of the feminine as a creative force. The project comes to life through the fascinating technique of ink transfer, a choice that gives the images an ethereal quality and a feeling of ephemerality.

The idea was born from my reflection on the transitory nature of life and the desire to capture that fleeting moment in which beauty and poetry manifest themselves with greater intensity. Visual immortality, the key theme of the project, becomes the means through which to explore the boundary between reality and dreams.

The creation process involved several phases. First of all, I carefully selected the subjects and symbolic elements that represent the fragility and elegance of existence. The female figures wrapped in mysterious atmospheres act as an emotional anchor, while symbols such as stairs, eyes and evanescent faces create layers of meaning that challenge the linearity of time.

The ink transfer technique was chosen to add an element of blur and evanescence to the images. This process involves printing photographs onto transfer paper, subsequently transferring the image to a different medium, creating a sort of "visual transcendence". This method helps to make the images ethereal, almost like fragments of memories that dissolve into memory.

The Proustian concept of time is inserted through attention to detail, seeking moments of intense emotional resonance that can reveal layers of past experiences. At the same time, the principle of the feminine permeates the project through the choice to represent female figures as archetypes of creativity and strength in a world that escapes temporal definition.

In "Orphic Evanescences," I invite viewers to immerse themselves in a world where beauty and the ephemeral merge, a visual story suspended between the heartbeat of time and the eternity of the image.

5. Your compositions often seem to carry multiple layers of meaning. Can you shed light on the messages or narratives you aim to convey through your photographs?

Behind each composition, I try to weave a visual story that goes beyond the surface of the images. The multiple levels of meaning present in my works are an invitation to explore the complexity of the world and immerse ourselves in deeper reflections.

My photographs are often understood as windows open onto internal and emotional worlds. Through the use of natural elements, I try to create a symbolism that connects with universal experiences.

The compositions become a way to explore hidden layers of meaning and connect the present with the past. The presence of time and its effects on matter and nature translates into silent narratives, giving the images a deeper temporal dimension.

Ultimately, through my works I try to offer a space for contemplation and reflection, inviting observers to explore the multiple meanings that lie behind each image. The compositions are an invitation to interpret and connect with the stories that emerge from the complexity of the world I photograph.

6. Your visual style is distinct and recognizable. How do you believe your unique style contributes to the impact of your artwork, and what do you hope viewers take away from it?

My visual style is the result of a combination of influences and creative intentions. I believe that creating a unique style is essential to effectively communicate my artistic perspective and to leave a lasting impression on viewers.

My intent is to take viewers on a visual journey, offering them an experience that goes beyond simple observation. I seek a dreamlike atmosphere through the careful use of light, shadows and natural elements. This dreamlike element is not just an aesthetic aspect, but an invitation to immerse yourself in another dimension, to explore inner worlds and to arouse deep emotions.

The consistency of my visual style contributes to the impact of my works as it creates a recognizable narrative thread. Each composition is designed to communicate a story or evoke a specific feeling. Attention to detail, choice of colors and arrangement of elements all contribute to defining my visual signature.

I hope that viewers, by immersing themselves in my unique style, can experience an emotional connection with the images and embark on a personal journey. I want my works to be an invitation to the imagination, stimulating the mind and provoking deep reflections. In pursuing a dreamlike atmosphere, I seek to create a space where reality merges with dream, allowing viewers to lose themselves in a world of beauty and meaning.

7. As an artist, what challenges do you encounter during the creative process, and how do you overcome them?

Facing challenges during the creative process is integral to my artistic journey. One significant hurdle is maintaining a balance between creative vision and its practical execution. Often, my mind is full of ideas and concepts that I want to express, but finding the right visual form can be challenging.

To overcome this, I dedicate time to the planning and preparation phase. By creating mood boards, notes and sketches, I transform abstract into tangible projects. This structured approach ensures consistency in my creative vision and help translate it into concrete images.

Adapting to environmental conditions and technical limitations during shooting presents another challenge, particularly in outdoor photography where capturing a dreamlike atmosphere can be unpredictable. To address this, I develop flexibility and adaptability, readily modifying my approach based on the circumstances and find creative solutions to achieve the desired effect.

The perpetual quest for inspiration is both a challenge and a catalyst for growth. To tackle it, I constantly explore diverse artistic domains, indulge in reading, observe works by other artists and immerse myself in cultural experiences. This ongoing exploration keeps my creativity alive and guard against stagnation.

In summary, overcoming creative challenges requires a combination of careful planning, flexibility, and an open mind to continuous inspiration. Accepting and facing these challenges is intrinsic to my creative process, fostering artistic development and the creation of meaningful works.

8. With a background in archaeology, how does your past experience influence your artistic vision and the themes you explore in your photography?

My background in archeology has had a significant impact on my artistic vision and the themes I explore in photography. My experience in the archaeological field has taught me to observe the world with a careful eye and to grasp the profound connections between the past and the present. This is clearly reflected in the themes that run through my photography.

One of the main aspects is the awareness of temporal stratification. Just as in archeology one digs to reveal overlapping layers of history, in my photography I try to capture the complexity of time. The presence of historical elements, both natural and man-made, becomes a way to reflect on the past and the persistent effect it has on our perception of the present.

In my photography, I try to convey a narrative feel, inviting viewers to explore the hidden stories behind each shot and create their own interpretations.

The attention to detail acquired in archeology is also reflected in my visual composition. I try to capture the beauty in the details, highlighting the elements that often escape rapid observation. This helps create a richer and deeper experience for those viewing my works.

Ultimately, my background in archeology has enriched my artistic perspective, influencing how I explore time, tell stories, and bring detail into focus in my photography. Photography thus becomes a means to delve into the past and to transform my vision of the world into a unique artistic expression.

9. In a world saturated with imagery, how do you ensure your work stands out and resonates with your audience?

Artist Photographer: In a context where the world is saturated with images, the goal becomes to create work that not only stands out but also captures attention and has significant resonance. Joan Fontcuberta, with his reflection on visual overload, underlined the challenge of emerging in a world where we are constantly bombarded by images. To face this challenge, I try to adopt different strategies.

First of all, I try to cultivate a distinctive style that stands out from the crowd. Developing a recognizable visual signature helps create a unique imprint that can attract viewers' attention. This distinctive style is not just about aesthetics, but also about conveying a coherent and personal vision of the world.

Furthermore, care in the selection and presentation of images is crucial. Quality prevails over quantity, and I try to share only works that carry significant value. Each photograph should tell a story or evoke an emotion, helping to establish a deeper connection with the audience.

Visual storytelling plays a key role. Each series of images should have a coherence and continuity that allows viewers to immerse themselves in a complex story. Fontcuberta emphasized the importance of telling stories that go beyond mere visual representation, and I try to apply this principle in my photography.

Interaction with the public is equally crucial. I use social platforms to share my work, participate in conversations and create a community of interested people. Active participation with the public through exhibitions, workshops and discussions helps create a deeper connection with those who appreciate my photography.

In summary, to stand out in a world saturated with images, it is essential to develop a distinctive style, aim for quality rather than quantity, build engaging visual narratives and actively interact with the audience. Through these approaches, I hope to create a lasting impact and resonate meaningfully with people who come across my work.

10. Lastly, what keeps you motivated and inspired to continue creating, and what advice would you offer to aspiring artists pursuing their passion in photography?

My motivation and inspiration come from a combination of elements. Firstly, the continuous search for new perspectives and visual stimuli constantly pushes me to explore and evolve as an artist. The changing beauty of the world and the possibility of capturing unique moments always keep me connected to my passion for photography.

Furthermore, the desire to communicate and share stories is a powerful driver behind my work. Photography is for me a means of expression, a universal language that overcomes cultural barriers. Knowing that my images can spark emotions, reflections and connections with others motivates me to continue creating.

For aspiring artists pursuing their passion for photography, I would suggest cultivating your own unique vision. To be authentic in telling stories that you are passionate about, to develop a distinctive style that sets you apart. Diversity of perspectives is a precious value.

Continuously explore and observe the work of other artists, explore new techniques, and constantly seek to broaden your visual vocabulary. Artistic growth is an ongoing process of learning and discovery.

Also don't fear failure. Every failure is an opportunity to learn and improve. Perseverance is key to overcoming challenges and achieving long-term success.

Thanks Tina and Please Find More Her Works @tinasalii
Thank YOU for Reading!