INTRODUCING: JOSEPH DORATO

ARTIST STATEMENT

Dreams and Nightmares

I think of my photos and films as statements on people and the inner workings of their mind. Specifically a look into the psyche of a person's darkest and brightest moments in life. I appreciate being able to visually show their journeys, struggles, hopes, dreams, and nightmares through these visually compelling stories of others personal experiences. My compositions are surrealistic and carefully crafted, bringing the viewer to another reality that is familiar yet unknown to them. From someone flying high above to them drowning in their own ambitions, these personal experiences from real people are what interest me, and what I bring to life. 
This is specifically shown through people’s experience with sleep paralyzation, night terrors, and depression. My work could be described as dark, but I see it more as a medium to conquer one's fears and inhibitions. To conquer weakness is a very powerful and uplifting feeling. That is my favorite part about working on these pieces, sparking change in people and inspiring some to overcome their own fears. Striking people with inspiration and ambition has always been, and will continue to be, the goal of my work.