Latest Opening Exhibition ‘Fatima’ held in New York City.
If there is one thing you can be sure about, South London photographer and filmmaker Gabriel Moses is never short in details. Even on the way to the grand opening of his latest exhibition, as New York City’s street lights appear dull, pipelines exhale smoke in every direction and skyscrapers fill up the night skies, the presence of ‘FATIMA’ is immensely felt. The scenery is something out of a movie and could have been taken directly for the background of Gabriel’s poster, if not referenced.
For the 26 year old visual innovator, this is only the beginning. Making his debut public show titled ‘Regina’ in London. Shortly after, followed by his unexpected Chicago visit ‘Marsha’ and now to complete somewhat of a trilogy ‘Fatima’ (excluding his Milan installation with Nike and Slam Jam). Gabriel’s come up can be best described as pure destiny, from the rawness of Lewisham’s football pitches to collaborating with the likes of Nike, Pharrel Williams, Kanye West, Travis Scott and many more visionaries inclined with his art of storytelling.
This man walks in triumph due to the undoubtedly gratefulness towards the women in his life, which not only informs his main focus but also, is where Gabriel uncovers his strength.
While ‘Regina’ is a take from the Latin translation which means queen, and ‘Marsha’, the name of his beloved hairdresser, perhaps ‘Fatima’ is a mixture of both. Situated on the 4th floor of WSA NYC’s coverless building, the entrance to the opening show truly can take one’s breath away. With artworks, a gigantic floating poster in the center and displays of his filmography all across the studio. One, if not careful enough, could get lost roaming through Gabriel’s own little wonderland.
Even the DJ seems to have found inspiration in this place, playing American classics such as Jay Z and new school music from the likes of YT, Fimiguerro and many more cult favourite. The art selection in itself is a reflection on how far Gabriel has come, showcasing recent music videos with Schoolboy Q and the FEIN piece of art on another corner, to the recognizable ‘Ijo’ short film directed by Gabriel Moses in a separate room sealed in the dark. On his side is his loving mother Grace in a beautiful warm dress, who through out the opening can not keep a bright smile off her face.
Perhaps the star of the show is not a piece of art; however, New Yorkers and how they choose to interact with Gabriel’s work. When ask Tremoine Emory, founder of Denim Tears and recent collaborator, what his favourite piece of art is, his eyes don’t leave the Ghanaian flag captured with a model posing at the front. He explains that he has not yet viewed Gabriel’s artwork in person and once he has accumulated the force to disperse from the crowd, he may find his way to the photo in question, which he has been staring at throughout our brief conversation.
It appears although Gabriel’s work is internationally known, many people can share Tremoine’s sentiment and have yet to experience his bonne a vivre in person.
As the night falls, the crowd grows larger. If you pay close attention, the opening night has now turned into a huge network hub, with loud chatters and dabs in display wherever you look. Come to think of it,Gabriel’s presence always had the power to forge worlds together; from his South London demeanor, to his African heritage intertwined with a diasporic interface that bleeds in the core of his audience.
As the magical opening must come to an end, a great number of attendees feel the need to show Gabriel one more time of their gratitude. That is when it becomes clear; a part of his endless accomplishments includes the community he has built around his work. His supporters each take turns to express their admiration and how much Gabriel and his story has impacted their lives. Carrying a tired face yet a humble heart, Gabriel takes in it all; making sure that everyone gets a fair amount of time with the artist and the opportunity to be heard.
What one can take away from the night is Gabriel is an artist here to stay and we are witnessing history in the making. His visuals whether it translate into photography or cinematography are more than just a distinctive approach and a sombre aesthetic. They tell you a story of a boy comfortable in his own skin and courageous enough to spread his message regardless if all odds are against him.
