Meet Samantha Salzinger | Artist and Professor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samantha Salzinger and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samantha, what are you inspired by?
I am inspired by the interplay between fantastical imagery and real-world issues. Nature’s intricate beauty and its delicate ecosystems drive much of my creative process, as do the complexities and consequences of consumer culture. The vibrant colors and whimsical elements found in everyday life, as well as the hidden stories behind ordinary objects, fascinate me and find their way into my work. My students also provide constant inspiration, offering fresh perspectives and creative energy that push me to explore new ideas and techniques. This blend of environmental beauty, social commentary, and the dynamic exchange of ideas within the art community fuels my passion and drives my creative endeavors

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
What sets me apart is my unique approach to combining handcrafted dioramas with photography and video to create fantastical landscapes. My work, which blends whimsical, candy-coated aesthetics with serious themes of consumerism and overconsumption, aims to provoke thought and dialogue.

I am most proud of the 20 plus years of art I have created and exhibited, all a labor of love. Additionally, I am excited about my role as a professor, where I find immense value in teaching art and photography. Sharing my knowledge and passion with students not only helps them grow but also continually inspires and challenges me to evolve as an artist.

Was it easy? Easy is a strange word to describe it. No, it wasn’t easy but I am very passionate about what I do so it’s pleasurable and fulfilling. Being an artist is the core of who I am. I suppose it would have been more difficult not to pursue it. Of course, there were numerous challenges along the way, but I overcame them by staying true to my vision and continually pushing through boundaries, both personally and artistically.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance and in refining my work, pushing it to new heights. Embracing the art making process, with all its failures and successes, has been crucial to my growth.

My brand is a unique fusion of art and social commentary, using handcrafted dioramas, photography, and filmmaking to explore various themes from environmental concerns to consumerism. Through my most recent project, “Sugar Coated”, I aim to create visually bold works that are fun to look at while also provoking thought and dialogue about our consumption habits and their broader impacts.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Since I’m an artist, we should start with some culture, visiting renowned art museums like PAMM in Miami or The Norton in West Palm Beach, both offering diverse and inspiring collections. If the weather permits, perhaps take a tour of the Everglades to immerse ourselves in its unique ecosystem. For a touch of south Florida history, we could explore the beautiful Vizcaya Museum and Gardens or the vibrant MiMo district in Miami. We should also take advantage of the fresh local produce, dining at farm-to-table cuisine at places like Michael’s Genuine in Miami or Farmer’s Table in Boca Raton. While my friend relaxes on the beach, I’ll find a shady spot under a tree to avoid the sun (I’m a fair skinned redhead!). Other places to hang out would be eclectic spots like Dada in Delray Beach and Orchestrated Minds Brewing in Fort Lauderdale for unique craft beers. Saving the best for last, let’s not forget shopping. We’ll hit Sawgrass Mills and the Colonnade Outlets for great deals, and maybe indulge in some high-end shopping on Worth Avenue in Palm Beach.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
John Szarkowski (1925-2007) was a renowned American photographer, curator, historian, and critic, who significantly shaped the field of photography as an art form. As the Director of Photography at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City from 1962 to 1991, Szarkowski was instrumental in elevating the status of photography through groundbreaking exhibitions and influential publications.

I was privileged to have the opportunity to study with Szarkowski as an undergraduate and again in Graduate school at Yale. This experience profoundly influenced my art and my work as a professor. His emphasis on the photographer’s perspective and the narrative power of images taught me to look beyond the surface and explore the subtleties of visual language. Szarkowski’s guidance encouraged me to approach my work with a thoughtful, critical eye, ultimately leading me to create dioramas that merge fantastical aesthetics with poignant social commentary. His teachings continue to resonate in my work, reminding me to always communicate my vision with clarity and purpose.

I am deeply grateful for the unwavering support and inspiration from the incredible people in my life. My mother, who passed away in 2018, was always my biggest fan. She believed in my abilities and was always there to cheer me on when I needed it most. Her encouragement and faith in my potential continue to inspire me every day. Additionally, my best friend Carolyn Allen is a constant source of support and inspiration. Her steadfast friendship has helped me navigate the challenges and celebrate the successes in my artistic journey.

I have also been so fortunate to meet, work, and study with many, many talented and inspiring creatives. There are too many people to mention, but if you personally know me and are reading this, you are most likely one of them. Each of you has played a crucial role in shaping who I am today, and I am forever thankful for your love and support.

Website: https://samanthasalzinger.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthasalzinger/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-salzinger-9b0199268/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/samantha.salzinger/