Corte Madera Photographer Shares Unique Vision

Corte Madera photographer Joey Della Santina is taking on his own vision of the world around him, and he's sharing that vision with the communities where he grew up.

Della Santina is hosting a reception tonight, Dec. 13, from 6-8 p.m. at the Belvedere-Tiburon Library, where he works. The show continues through Dec. 31.

Della Santina's first solo show was at the Mill Valley Library in 2011. He's also been a contributor in the annual Town of Corte Madera photography contest.

He describes his work as contemporary. "It's a different look at everyday objects," Della Santina said. 

Della Santina says he was influenced by his instructor at Santa Clara University.

"My photography professor wore purple clothing, quoted Nietzsche, and photographed Nick Cave and Radiohead," he recalled. "She abhored anything remotely normal. In her class I learned to look at the world through a different lens. Now I filter urban landscapes and the natural world through my imagination, with the help of my camera.

"With my photos I aim to convey the beauty of our surroundings. We have created timeless urban sculptures, and we try hard to keep nature intact, especially in Marin. In the spirit of modernism, I believe that clever and timeless art and design can brighten up our lives and make the world a better place."

The Marin Catholic grad is actually part of two legendary restaurant families in the Bay Area. The Della Santinas made Marin Joe's in Corte Madera and Della Santina's in Sonoma local landmarks. His mother's family, the Aversas, came to America from Sorrento, Italy, and opened La Ginestra in 1964.

Della Santina's artwork traces his roots, capturing the nightlife of North Beach and the streetlife of Rome, Italy.

Della Santina captures scenes from around world that depict the enduring art that exists in architecture, textiles and nature.