Tshepiso Seleke, known as “TheDarkRoomArtist,” is a visual storyteller who conveys narratives through his camera.
Hailing from Soweto, where he was born in 1988, TheDarkRoomArtist captures the true essence and genuine stories of South Africans across Johannesburg and its surroundings.
Soweto, the largest township in South Africa, serves as the birthplace of his artistic journey, where he began to refine his photography skills.
The intersection of art, energy, emotion, and expression is truly captivating. Upon my initial encounter with the Instagram account @Thedarkroomartist, I found myself unable to look away. A sense of envy washed over me as I admired the remarkable work being showcased. I thought to myself, “If only I possessed the ability to capture images in such a manner.” It is important to note that I do not consider myself a photographer in the traditional sense; I merely take photographs.
For those curious about where to discover the talents of TheDarkRoomArtist, he can be found in the streets, where he skillfully documents the untold narratives of everyday citizens—those who serve as the backbone of this nation’s economy. His photography reveals the inherent beauty of the country, even amidst its evident challenges. Through his art, he endeavors to amplify the voices of the marginalized and narrate the myriad stories of the working class.
The breathtaking quality of his work defies description, prompting one to ponder why such artistry has not gained mainstream recognition in this country. His talent is truly exceptional.
In essence, he serves as a source of inspiration for the broader South African community. He provides an authentic representation of the realities of life within this nation.
Tshepiso emphasized the importance of never compromising the integrity of the individuals you portray as a creator. He advised being conscious and consistently recalling the motivations that initiated your journey.
What is the origin of the name ‘TheDarkRoomArtist,’ and what significance does it hold?
Tshepiso reflects on the origins of his craft, noting that it was conceived in a dimly lit environment. From an early age, he developed an affinity for a seldom-used room in his home that lacked illumination. “Occasionally, I would enter that space and capture images in the darkness, and for me, that marked the inception of something significant.”
One of Tshepiso’s most admirable traits is his humility. I encountered an individual who is remarkably grounded and enthusiastic about collaborating with people of all ages.
I once came across a quote that encapsulated Tshepiso perfectly: genuine humility fosters confidence rather than arrogance. There exists a distinction between the two. Tshepiso embodies confidence, which is evident in his work as he allows his photographs to convey their own narrative instead of boasting about his remarkable creations.
Tshepiso emphasizes the importance of authenticity. “Regardless of whether I ascend to the pinnacle as the foremost visual artist in the nation, I will always remain humble because that is my true nature,” he stated.
“Regrettably, similar to other places, we find ourselves in a nation populated by gatekeepers, yet we cannot continue to echo the same sentiments. We must simply do what we can and cherish our craft,” Tshepiso remarked.
As emerging youth in this country, our responsibility is to embrace our passions, honor our creations, and pay tribute to those for whom we design, he asserted.
TheDarkRoomArtist is enthusiastic about his upcoming projects. Above all, he aims to perpetuate the sharing of the knowledge he has gained and to serve as a lasting source of inspiration for future generations.