Camille Ross is an American photographer whose work is deeply rooted in her personal experiences and her commitment to social justice. Born in 1964 in San Francisco, California, Ross grew up in two very different worlds: the radical atmosphere of Berkeley in the 1970s and the rural landscapes of Mississippi. This duality of environments shaped her perspective from a young age, exposing her to the stark contrasts of cultural segregation and racism in America.
Ross’s grandparents were biracial, and she herself is part Cherokee, which contributed to her sense of being “other” in a predominantly Anglo society. This experience of being on the margins has informed her work, giving her a unique voice in the art world. Ross’s photography is characterized by its ability to capture the essence of marginalized communities, offering viewers a glimpse into lives that are often overlooked or ignored.
In addition to her work as a photographer, Ross is also a civil liberties activist, using her art as a means of advocacy. She hopes that her documentary work can continue to shed light on the struggles of those who are often silenced or oppressed.
Ross’s latest body of work explores the intersection of art and technology, specifically artificial intelligence. By using AI to create multiple avatars from a series of selfies, Ross has been able to visually translate her ancestral dreams, including her Native American heritage and the spirit guides that have guided her throughout her life. This work is a testament to Ross’s ability to adapt and innovate, always pushing the boundaries of her medium.
In addition to her work as a photographer, Ross is also a New Media Artist, exploring the roles of social media and globalization in her projects. Her work has been featured in numerous publications and exhibitions, both nationally and internationally. Ross is a graduate of Goddard College and Cranbrook Academy of Art, where she earned her MFA in 1991.
Ross has received several prestigious grants and awards, including the New Mexico Council on Photography, The Tucson Council on the Arts, and The International Women’s Foundation of Marfa, Texas. She has also been the recipient of a one-year fellowship from the International Women’s Foundation of Marfa, Texas.
Ross’s work has been acquired by several museums and galleries, including the Caravaggio Museum of Art in Sicily, the New Mexico Museum of Art in Santa Fe, and the Fenix Gallery of Taos. She has participated in numerous group exhibitions, including the Euro Art Expo, the Parma Contemporary, and the Museo Colle del Duomo in Milano, Italy.
Ross’s work is a powerful testament to the ability of art to provoke thought, inspire change, and give voice to those who have been silenced.
