Camille Walala
Camille Walala’s ‘Turn The Light On, It’s Dark In Here’ is a dynamic melange of colourful architectural forms that seem to play with depth and dimensionality like a trompe l’oeil, creating an abstracted cityscape of light.
Outlined in vibrant primary colours, curves and rounded contours collide with rigid right angles of squares and steps, semicircles jostle among grid patterns, and cuboids tower like skyscrapers. An evolution of the ‘Putting Things in Perspective’ series of 2D/3D investigations that Camille Walala has been exploring for the last two years, this explosively energetic light sculpture takes the artist into a new medium: programmed LEDs.
‘Working with light as the base of the piece has been an exciting challenge for me as it’s the first time I have used this medium before. It’s a very different approach for me, and I’m delighted with the new dimension that light has brought to my work. I can’t wait to see the piece in place – I hope it brings a touch of playfulness and delight to the Docks.”
– Camille Walala
Hi Camille, welcome to our “five minutes with…” series! Your artwork, ‘Turn The Light On, It’s Dark In Here’ is appearing publicly for the first time here at River of Light – how do you feel about this being your first artistic piece in light?
“I’m quite nervous about it as I’m very much out of my comfort zone.”
There’s no need to be nervous, we’re a lovely bunch in Liverpool! Could you tell us a bit about your inspiration behind Turn The Light On, It’s Dark in Here?
“The inspiration is taken from my work process from the Putting Things In Perspective Series. It’s a series of artworks based around a lexicon of shapes I developed over the course of a year. I utilise these when I create collages. The light is based around my collage making and the adding and subtracting of form in space.”
This sounds very exciting! We are delighted that you chose to showcase your first light installation at River of Light, could you tell us what it’s been like working with us at Culture Liverpool to bring this work to River of Light?
“It has been really lovely to work with the Liverpool Culture team. So accommodating, friendly and professional!”
Oh you make us blush! We’ve loved working with you too! Have you enjoyed being in Liverpool so far?
“Its been great! I love Liverpool.”
So, bearing in mind you’re enjoying your time in the city, iff anyone is thinking about coming down to River of Light but is unsure, what would you say to them to explain why they should come and see your artwork?
“They should come down as viewing artworks by night is quite unusual! Its a very different experience.”
Aside from your own creative works, is there any other artwork that you’re particularly keen on seeing?
“I’m looking forward to seeing the entire roster of works! There are some very talented artists showcased.”
We couldn’t agree more! Speaking of other artworks and artists, you’ve been working with other River of Light artists in our communities with Make Bank. Could you tell us a bit more about what motivated you to get involved in this community engagement and what you’ve been doing?
“I really love what they stand for. Creativity is in all of us and should be encouraged as much as possible in children. By giving children access to these creative outlets you are giving them opportunity to explore their imaginations!”
Your work is inspirational, and you clearly have a keen interest in supporting the next generation of artists, do you have any advice for anyone wanting to get into the creative sector?
“Just go for it! Anyone can be an artist. Just draw or paint as much as you can. Practice makes perfect!”
We couldn’t agree more! Final question Camille, where can people go to find out more about your work and where you will be next?
“My instagram page @Camillewalala Or sign up to my mailing list through my website www.camillewalala.com”
