Shelly Mosman: Currents
on view January 11, 2025 - April 27, 2025
Shelly Mosman, American, b.1972, Back Yard (2015). Digital capture, printed on canvas. 50” x 40”
Minneapolis based photographer Shelly Mosman has evolved her craft from an 18-year career in commercial and wedding photography, to a focus on expressive and imaginative portraiture. Mosman’s work captivates viewers through its bold diversity, weaving together rich influences from European art history with modern pop culture. Her series ranges from raw, black-and-white images, to vibrant, theatrical compositions, each one an exploration of identity, expression, and storytelling. Whether photographed in her studio or surrounded by nature, her subjects – both people and animals – are often adorned in quirky props, unique costumes, and set against vivid, stylized backdrops. Currents showcases twenty of Mosman's striking water-inspired portraits, offering viewers an immersive experience of her bold and distinctive vision.
Shelly Mosman
Shelly Mosman’s (b. 1972) photography career spans over 20 years. A graduate from the Minneapolis College of Art and Design, her work is recognized around the world, has been published in Germany, France, Australia, Brazil and the U.S., and with works in the permanent collections of the Plains Art Museum, Rochford Art Museum, and Eiteljorg Museum. She was invited to show in conjunction with Art Basel Miami at Aqua in 2017. She has earned a reputation as a visionary in portrait photography whose contributions enrich the contemporary art scene.
Mosman is known for her narrative-driven imagery that captures the essence of her subjects. With a deep appreciation for storytelling, Shelly seamlessly blends elements of stylistic fashion, nostalgia, and the natural world to create striking portraits that resonate with a timeless quality. Her portraits often feature vintage-inspired props with animals and timeless environments or studio backdrops that enhance the narrative and transport viewers into a world of memories and dreams. Her signature series, Animal Child, epitomizes her unique approach by harmonizing the innocence of childhood with the powerful symbolism of animals, crafting works that are both whimsical and profound.
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Support Comes From
This exhibition project is presented by the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, a nonprofit mission-driven art museum located on the shores of the Upper Mississippi River. MMAM gratefully acknowledges sustaining support from generous contributions from foundations, corporations, individuals, members and volunteers.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts & cultural heritage fund.