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Dionna Bright - Self-Portrait Artist

Biography

Dionna Bright is a self-portrait artist and portrait photographer based in Charlotte, North Carolina, who uses photography as her primary medium to delve into the layered realms of memory, vulnerability, authenticity, and resilience. Through her practice, she reclaims personal history and reshapes the narrative of self, employing materials such as fabric, relics, wood, and vibrant colors as tools of transformation. Whether captured in the studio, at home, or within nature, her self-portraits are meditative acts that reveal the complexity of the human experience, inviting both tension and release.

Infused with whimsy and a surreal atmosphere, Dionna’s work invites viewers to reflect on their own temporal journeys. Her visual storytelling is enriched by unique props, creative set designs, and intentional color grading that amplify the depth of each image. Demonstrating an appreciation for distinctive landscapes and backdrops, she seamlessly integrates these elements to craft compelling visual narratives that capture not only her boundless existence but also the essence of those she photographs. Her art empowers introspection, healing, and unbridled self-expression, resonating as a testament to authentic and diverse experiences.

Artist Statement

My art stands to explore and document personal growth, evolution, and emotions that reflect a deep connection to spirituality, authenticity, history, play and unrestrained expression. The depth of my visual storytelling is enriched by unique props and attire, creative set design, and intentional color grading, complemented by thoughtful posing. My appreciation for distinctive landscapes and backdrops is intentional as I incorporate these elements into visual narratives, capturing not only my boundless existence but also the essence of individuals as my subjects with my Nikon camera.

 

I invite viewers to reflect on their own temporal journey. At the core of my artistic pursuit is the empowerment of individuals while my work serves as a catalyst for introspection, healing, engagement, and the unapologetic exploration of new dimensions. I am dedicated to capturing authentic moments, and each piece in my portfolio stands as a testament to the diverse range of experiences I unfold through my lens.

Education 

2018

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Residencies

2024

Goodyear Arts, Charlotte, NC

QC Family Tree, Charlotte, NC

Exhibitions 

Solo & Two Person Exhibitions

2023

SIGNS, Solo Show, Flux Galleries

Glimmers of the Hidden and Seen, Dionna Bright & Ashley Kauschinger - The Light Factory

Group Exhibitions

2024

Fall Residency Showcase, Goodyear Arts

QC Family Tree Residency Showcase, Arts Factory

2023

Local Street, The Mint Museum

Our People, Arts Council of Fayetteville

Selected lectures, publications, radio

Charlotte is Creative gives out HUG Grant, WBTV QC Life, Charlotte, North Carolina

Black Women Behind the Lens Panel, Harvey B. Gantt Center for African-American Arts + Culture, Charlotte, North Carolina

Photography and Authenticity Artist Talk, The VAPA Center, Charlotte, North Carolina

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