Sebastian Piras' Photography Career Has Taught Him A Lot About Life in the United States

Italian Sebastian Piras is a New York-based photographer, painter, and filmmaker known for portraiture, creating photographs that appear natural while showcasing his subjects’ personalities. A partial collection of his work, 1986’s Artists Exposed, features portraits of known and unknown artists and players in the international arts scene, including Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. Another collection, A Pocketful of Contemporary Artists: Photographic Portraits, consists of 120 portraits taken between 1986 and 2006.

Sebastian Piras

A graduate of the University of London, Piras—who has for nearly 40 years run his one-man photography business—has worked on documentaries and worked with such publications as The Hollywood Reporter and Backstage, photographing actresses Eva Mendes and Carey Mulligan for their respective magazine covers. He has photogaphed other celebrities and personalities, including Norman Reedus and Michael Shannon. His work as a photographer and videographer has also allowed him to work with such high profile clients as Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger.

In the following interview, he elaborates on the differences between his native Italy and the United States. He uses his sharp eye to highlight what foreign correspondents must take into account in order to embark on successful careers in a country with extraordinarily diverse communities and perspectives.

What aspects of your home country do Americans typically overlook or misunderstand?

Americans, like people from any other country, may have certain misconceptions or overlook various aspects of Italy due to cultural differences, media portrayals, or lack of in-depth understanding.

Here are a few aspects that Americans might overlook or misunderstand about Italy:

1. Diversity and regional differences: Italy is a country with a rich history and diverse regions, each with its own unique culture, dialects, cuisine, and traditions. The north, the central region, the south, and islands like Sicily and Sardinia have distinct characteristics often overlooked in favor of a generalized "Italian" identity.

2. Cuisine beyond pasta and pizza.

3. Regional languages and dialects: Italy has a multitude of languages and dialects beyond standard Italian.

4. Historical and cultural complexity: Italy's history is intricate and goes far beyond the Roman Empire. The country has been shaped by numerous civilizations, including the Etruscans, Greeks, Byzantines, and Normans, each leaving a lasting impact on its culture, architecture, and traditions.

5. Cultural sensitivity and eetiquette.

6. Work-life balance and pacing of Life: Italians often prioritize a slower, more relaxed pace of life with an emphasis on enjoying meals and spending time with family and friends. This differs from the faster-paced work culture often observed in parts of the United States.

7. Historical and architectural richness beyond Rome and Florence.

8. The political landscape.

How do people in your home country perceive the United States and Americans?

Perceptions of the United States and Americans in Italy can vary based on individual beliefs, experiences, cultural backgrounds, and exposure to American media and culture. It's important to note that views and opinions can be diverse and not everyone will hold the same perspective. That’s perhaps too long to list here.

How would you describe your impressions and observations of the United States?

I can provide a general overview of common observations and perceptions that I might have about the United States based on cultural, historical, and media influences up to my training cutoff in September 2021:

1. Diverse culture and society: The United States as a culturally diverse and vibrant society, with people from various ethnic backgrounds, languages, and traditions. I see this as both a strength and a challenge for the U.S.

2. Consumerism and materialism: There's a perception of high consumerism and materialism in the United States, where the culture emphasizes a desire for wealth, possessions, and a high standard of living but with a heavier toll than in other countries to be achieved.

3. Food culture: Italians typically recognize the U.S. for its diverse food culture. Although fast food is prevalent, the U.S. is also acknowledged for its culinary variety, including regional specialties and an increasing interest in healthier, organic options.

4. Political influence: The U.S. is a major global player, often discussed in terms of its political influence, policies, and interventions in international affairs, the two-party political system and the impact of U.S. foreign policy on the world stage.

5. Innovation and Technology: I admire the U.S. for its advancements in technology, innovation, and research. Tech hubs like Silicon Valley are often mentioned, showcasing the nation's leadership in the tech industry. Yet lots of the technology + invented products take longer to be released in the U.S. than in other countries (cost issues).

6. The education system: The American education system, including universities and research institutions, is generally respected and considered attractive for international students seeking higher education opportunities. However i find that the education in grades 1 to 12 is not on par with the level of European and some Asian countries.

7. Pop culture and entertainment: The U.S. entertainment industry, including Hollywood, is highly influential globally. Italian audiences often enjoy American films, TV shows, music, and other forms of popular culture.

8. Gun culture and crime: The prevalence of guns and gun-related incidents is a concern for many Italians, as gun control laws and their impact on society are a topic of discussion and comparison with Italian policies.

Why were you specifically chosen to work as a foreign correspondent in the United States instead of another country?

I was already stationed here [working predominantly as a photographer].

Among the stories you have covered in the United States, which do you consider the most significant?

Mostly art and culture stories.

How has your experience working in the United States shaped and influenced your career as a foreign correspondent?

Learning to work understanding the American perspective on everything.

What advice would you give to aspiring foreign correspondents looking to work in the United States or other foreign countries?

 Start with a clean slate. Forget almost everything you might have learned about the U.S. before coming here.