‘Magic on Earth’ is on exhibit at M-I-A Gallery in Seattle until October 25.
From the ‘Magic on Earth’ series.
About:
When you enter the world of French photographer Jean-Claude Moschetti you’re visiting a place that isn’t usually accessible to most people. In Moschetti’s first solo exhibition, Magic on Earth, he provides an intimate view of secret societies in the West African countries of Sierra Leone, Benin and Burkina Faso. In the process he helps to demystify a different culture and spiritual practice that co-exists with daily life.
“I wish to question the reality we see, and to inspire doubt in our minds, what we see is not always what we believe it to be.”
From ‘The Magic on Earth’ series.
The photographs are diptychs and triptychs, often juxtaposing the figures together or with landscapes to reproduce a balance between the elements, which enhances a sense of mystery. The photos are mesmerizing – you can’t help but be entranced by the bright colors and textures of the masks and costumes. You feel as though you are right there experiencing the moment. These are figures that connect the supernatural and material world, and this detour into African spirituality takes us on a journey into rituals that extend back to the beginnings of voodoo and continue on today. Moschetti, who himself is a member of these secret cults, as well as an independent press photographer in Africa, has a unique insight: “Everything in life depends on a point of view and African spirituality teaches us to look at the world in a different light.”
Quote from the artist:
“ I have travelled throughout West Africa as a press photographer. My first visit was to Benin, the cradle of voodoo. I shot a story about the Celestial Church of Christ, an afro Christian church, spreading all over Africa but also in Europe and the USA. At the same time I began to photograph voodoo ceremonies for myself (I mean for my own pleasure), most of the time in black and white in a photo-journalistic style. I made many more trips to Benin, enjoying witchcraft stories such as tales of humans changing into animals and lighting punishing robbers. I have learnt to see the ocean as the house of maritime deities, and rivers as shelter for peculiar aquatic creatures. I became accustomed to offering ‘Sodabi’ to Legba, to eat a spark of gunpowder in order to protect myself against spells. I have accepted the presence of this parallel world.”
From ‘The Sierra Leone’ series.
Courtesy: M.I.A. Gallery Seattle
Copyright: the photographer.