Photos by Carlos De La Rosa.

As a first-generation American, my work is deeply influenced by the complexities of identity, belonging, and the American experience. Through photography and video, I explore the intersection of personal narrative and broader cultural themes, focusing on the evolving landscapes of America, immigration, and the vibrant energy of dance culture in nightclubs. My practice is rooted in a desire to capture and document the stories that often go untold, offering a lens through which viewers can reflect on themes of migration, adaptation, and the multifaceted nature of American life.

In my photography, I seek to evoke a sense of place—examining both the physical and emotional landscapes of America. I am particularly drawn to the decaying, forgotten corners of this country, where infrastructure crumbles and abandoned spaces speak to the decline of once-thriving communities. These decaying landscapes reflect the narratives of displacement, economic hardship, and the erosion of ideals that were once central to the American dream. My work explores how these sites, once symbols of prosperity and hope, now stand as poignant reminders of the shifting socio-economic and political realities of contemporary America.

At the same time, I am captivated by the beauty and complexity of the immigrant experience, which often unfolds within these environments. The immigrant’s journey is intrinsically tied to these landscapes—both physical and metaphorical—shaped by personal history, hope, and the pursuit of belonging. In these spaces, I strive to document the resilience and transformation that accompany the immigrant narrative, contrasting the decaying landscape with the energy of new beginnings.

Another significant theme in my work is the exploration of dance culture in nightclubs. Through both still images, I document the raw, expressive energy of dance and its role as a communal space for liberation and self-expression. The nightclub serves as a stage for individuals to momentarily shed societal expectations, embracing freedom, joy, and connection. My aim is to showcase how these spaces function as havens for marginalized communities and as a reflection of broader cultural movements.

My process involves a mix of candid, documentary-style photography, blending traditional and contemporary methods to create immersive, layered narratives. I aim to blur the lines between the real and the imagined, allowing for a nuanced portrayal of the subjects and spaces I engage with. Through these mediums, I seek to convey the power of shared experience and the complex histories that shape us.

As I continue to navigate the duality of my own cultural heritage, my work strives to open up conversations about what it means to be both American, Dominican and yet something else, exploring the often-overlooked experiences of immigrants, their stories, and their contributions to the American landscape. My art is an invitation to reflect on the intersections of identity, culture, and belonging, and to engage with the ways in which these themes shape our understanding of home, community, and self-expression.