Interview
Roberto Pestarino
Roberto lives in a small town in the province of Alessandria, Italy.
While looking at a sunflower in 2011, Roberto came to the understanding that photography is a historical and communicative document. He started photographing then and hasn’t stopped since.
Roberto takes photos during his free time. He photographs what attracts his attention, and tries to develop those images into projects. He has produced a large number of photographs over the years, and has received several awards and publications for his work.
One of his works is a perennial guest at the National Library in France, Paris. You can see his latest project here.
What is your background and how did you start your journey in the art world?
“Before 2011, I’d never photographed before. Now, I dedicate time to photography every day.”
What does your work aim to say? Does it comment on any current social or political issues?
“With photos, I can say what I’m not able to say with words. It’s essential for a photographer to use their work to talk about important social issues. I’d like to express myself politically, but I’m not yet able to do so.”
Which current art world trends are you following?
“I don’t follow any particular trend because my interests are varied. However, lately I’ve found myself facing the difficult relationship between photos and painting, trying to follow my passion while entertaining the viewer as well.”
How would you describe your work?
“I try to exploit all photographic techniques because with them, I can best convey what I feel.
When I go around taking pictures, I love to go hunting with an elephant shotgun, but I also carry a butterfly net as well.”
What is your creative process like?
“The photographic process is simple, at least for me. I don’t alter or process what I shoot. Of course, I improve the contrasts and enhance light and shadows, but otherwise, I leave the image as is.”
What’s your favorite artwork and why?
“My favorite photo is the Fall of Geometry (above). It was taken many years ago and represents the signs of time on a door. I like it because I took it with great ease. I immediately saw that due to its shapes and difficulty in making itself understood, it had the potential of being a much loved photo, and it is.”
Have you had any noteworthy exhibitions you'd like to share?
“I’ve had a number of solo exhibitions, all in Italy, including two at the photography museum in Brescia.
Internationally, I’ve participated in group exhibitions and won competitions. I’m looking forward to one day having my first international solo exhibition.”
Website: www.fotorobit.it
Instagram: @pestarinoroberto
