Courtesy of Gabriel Moses

A picture is worth a thousand words—a saying that holds true in the world of visual storytelling. An image can represent emotions, capture moments, and reflect cultures. It embodies the essence of conveying a message through its medium, leaving a mark. Director and photographer Gabriel Moses isn’t new to making such a mark.

Gabriel Moses began his career at the age of 18 with Nike, marking the start of his journey in visual arts. His early work with the brand demonstrated his skill and potential. He achieved a milestone by becoming the youngest person to shoot a cover for Dazed, which set the stage for his future work. Throughout his career, Moses has worked with a range of clients, including brands like Louis Vuitton, Burberry, and Dior. His work has been featured in magazines like Vogue, highlighting his impact on the fashion and media industry. Additionally, Moses has collaborated with influential figures in music and entertainment, including Pharrell Williams, A$AP Rocky, and Kanye West.

Moses’s work is distinctive for its rich and deep color palettes, as well as his innovative play with shadow and light. His use of these elements creates a visual language that can embody a range of atmospheres, from fantasy to playful. Through his manipulation of darkness and light, Moses crafts images that evoke a wide spectrum of emotions and settings, further defining his unique style and approach to visual storytelling.

Moses’s most recent work represents a significant milestone in his career; the release of his first monograph, titled Gabriel Moses: Regina. This publication aligns with the exhibition he presented the previous year, continuing the exploration of themes and visuals that were highlighted in that showcase. The monograph offers an in-depth look into Moses’s body of work, providing readers with a comprehensive view of his artistic evolution and creative process. The book is not just a collection of images but an insightful examination of his contributions to visual storytelling. Here’s the cover and a sneak peek inside, providing a glimpse into the rich visual narratives and artistic depth that define Moses's work.

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Courtesy of Gabriel Moses

Courtesy of Gabriel Moses

Courtesy of Gabriel Moses

Gabriel Moses: Regina brings art to paper, a physical medium that often feels overshadowed in our heavily digital society. In an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, Gabriel emphasized the importance of creating a time capsule of his career that he could pass down to his children. The title, Gabriel Moses: Regina, is also shared with his first-ever exhibition, Regina, showcased last year at 180 Studios in London. The exhibition consisted of 50 photographs and 2 short films, providing a comprehensive view of his creative journey and artistic vision. Through these works, Moses explores themes of identity and heritage, inviting viewers to reflect on the intersections of culture and personal experience.

Regina functioned as an ode to the women who have profoundly influenced Moses’s life and work. The title, derived from the Latin word for queen, reflects the central role these women have played in shaping his perspective. This name, which is also that of his studio, underscores their significance in his life. By dedicating this work to them, Moses paid homage to their impact on his artistic expression and personal values, affirming their importance in his creative narrative. The decision to use this title reveals a deep respect and gratitude for the women who have been instrumental in his journey, both personally and professionally.

Moses’s upbringing in London, where he was raised by a single mother, deeply influenced his views on beauty and representation. Growing up in a diverse environment with limited resources, he developed a nuanced understanding of the complexities of identity and representation. His mother’s resilience and strength became foundational elements in his worldview, shaping his approach to art and how he represents subjects in his work. He explains that naming his projects after the women who inspired him, including Regina, is a testament to his respect for them and his dedication to presenting positive representation. This personal connection to his work highlights Moses’s commitment to honoring the women who have shaped his worldview and artistic endeavors.

Moreover, Moses’s dedication to positive representation is reflected in his broader artistic goals. He strives to challenge conventional norms and provide a platform for voices and stories that might otherwise be overlooked. By focusing on themes of identity and heritage, Moses seeks to create art that not only celebrates individual experiences but also fosters a deeper understanding of cultural and personal narratives. Gabriel Moses: Regina is more than just a book; it is a powerful statement of Moses’s dedication and inspiration for future generations.

Courtesy of Gabriel Moses

By adding Gabriel Moses:Regina to your collection, you’re not only enjoying a beautiful piece of art, you’re also opening yourself up to a journey that acknowledges and celebrates the influential women in your own life and heritage.

Article by Shawna Small, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Bradley Duley, Graphic Design Intern, PhotoBook Magazine

Queens and Dreams: Gabriel Moses’s Regina