Roberta Dorsett, Sleepwalking, 2023, Archival Inkjet Print, 13’’x19’’
ROBERTA DORSETT
Artist Statement
My photographic practice has evolved over time but has always been anchored in the central theme of presenting a view of what is both captivating and disquieting.
Whether through subtle, delicate colors and dreamlike compositions or stark monochromatic images, I aim to photograph moments that reveal the complex beauty and darkness of the human experience.
In my earlier work, Intimate Moments, I sought to offer a portrayal of black individuals, challenging negative stereotypes and capturing the warmth and complexity of family life. This project, in turn, led me to the recent work, Sleepwalking, which draws inspiration from slasher horror films. Here, I aim to translate the visceral thrills of these films into visual form, creating images blurring the line between assumed safety and terror.
My creative process is influenced by a diverse range of artists, including Hitchcock, ’70s and ’80s slasher films, and photographers such as Carrie Mae Weems, Weegee, and Deana Lawson. These influences have shaped my approach to art-making and the techniques and strategies I use to create my images.
Ultimately, my hope is that my work resonates with viewers on a visceral level. Whether photographing abandoned industrial wastelands, capturing intimate family scenes, or juxtaposing idealized depictions with an undercurrent of danger, I aim to create images that offer a glimpse into a world where allure and risk are intertwined.