artiste d'mon >>> camille mosely-pasley

Camille Mosley-Pasley
A photographic dialog on human existence
Interview by: Silverio Pantalla

Who is Camille Mosley-Pasley?
That varies with the time of day and day of week. I'm a photographer, a gallery director, independent curator, good deed doer, collector of stray cats and lazy slob when the opportunity arises.

Explain: A photographic dialogue on human existence
In conversation we share, compare and contrast life experiences, emotions and issues. These photographs do the same without a load of theoretical discourse to make you think there's more than meets the eye. Just people doing what people do. You can look at each of the photos and in some way say 'been there and done that.'

Why Clarke and Farris?
Farris was part of an exhibit that was canceled due to schedule conflicts. Around the time I realized the show wasn't going to happen, I saw Clarke's Ethiopian images at the Corcoran and asked to see more. Her work complimented Farris' on several levels. I wanted to show them together with similar images of DC. I didn't find a photographer that had what I was looking for so I did the job myself.

Describe your process and method?
I act like a tourist. I approach people and ask if I can photograph them when they're doing something very ordinary. I photograph dwellings, parks, cemeteries, market places, the ruins ... all the stuff you ignore at home but think is so quaint when you're 1000 miles away.

What is your most important goal in life?
To cultivate love.

If you could have just one wish; what could it be?
To have no physical needs. They take too much of my time.

If you could meet anyone living or dead; who would that be and why?
My grand and great grandparents. Everyone has amusing recollections of them. I'd like to have my own.

If you had to live in one room for your entire life, what would it look like?
There would be stacks of boxes with photos, negatives, CDs, books, papers, magazines and bills, an overcrowded desk with computer stuff, clothes piled high on a chair, dust bunnies under the bed and a small TV. Pretty much what my office and bedroom look like now.

What makes your work special?
An extra pat of butter and dash of onion salt.

Who have been some of your main influences as an artist and as a person?
My parents, husband and extended family. My father is a photographer. He taught me the basics. My parents and husband encourage my endeavors. A number of relatives are artists, musicians and collectors. Visiting their homes is better than visiting museums and concert halls.

Finish the following statement: Life is an illusion, and reality is...
probably not what you envisioned 10 years ago.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?
I'd like to have a few books published and celebrate the 8th anniversary of my own gallery.