French artist Camille Walala is no existential philosopher clad in black cashmere. Explosively colorful, the muralist’s ambitious, large-scale designs transform cityscapes across the world into stirring spectacles of joy. Though Camille’s public work is open to international travelers, homebodies may prefer to pore over her geometric designs in print form.
Recently published by Counter-Print, Taking Joy Seriously (2021) catalogs Camille’s career over several stunning projects. The hardbound book is available in eight editions, each one inspired by Camille’s distinct patterns and bold color palette. Inside, the book houses an interview with the London-based artist, a mini-booklet of her sketches, and plenty of drool-inducing photos of her designs through the years.
Understanding joy as a direct route to creativity, Camille encourages viewers to rethink the role of public structures in modern life. She is passionate about making space for people to gather and socialize, without spending money, especially in cities where post-pandemic alienation remains high. Some projects covered in Taking Joy Seriously include the polka-dotting of a derelict Arkansas filling station, perspective-warping visuals inside a Canary Wharf tunnel, and a seven-story industrial building painted pale pink and swimming pool blue.
Committed to public art, Camille hopes to expand her brand of radical positivity beyond what’s included in Taking Joy Seriously. Whatever the next chapter holds, she remains a staunch supporter of free visual culture, insisting, design after design, that creativity belongs to everyone.
Head over to Counter-Print and choose from one of eight hardcover editions of Camille Walala’s Taking Joy Seriously. Tack on a limited-edition print (or two) for an extra punch of joy. In the meantime, scroll down for a peek into Counter-Print’s stunning layout.
Camille Walala: Website | Instagram | Purchase Work | Purchase Book
All photos published with permission of the artists; photos: Thom Atkinson, courtesy of Counter-Print.
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