Paul Mobley

Join award-winning photographer Paul Mobley on an extraordinary visual journey through the heartland of America, specifically focusing on the lives of American farmers. In 2005, Paul embarked on a mission to capture the soul of rural America, traveling over 100,000 miles across the country to document the stories and experiences of over three hundred farm families. Through his lens, he brings to life the true heroes of our nation—the men and women who tirelessly work to put food on our tables.

In his captivating presentation, Paul shares the fascinating and inspiring tales that lie behind his remarkable photographs of American farmers and ranchers. As a city boy immersing himself in the agricultural world, he offers a unique perspective, blending personal anecdotes, humor, and profound insights into the lives of these unsung heroes. From the southern warmth of Florida to the rugged landscapes of Alaska, from the vast ranches of Montana to the picturesque farms of Maine, Paul’s photographs and narrative transport audiences from one compelling story to another.

Prepare to laugh, cry, and be inspired as Paul unveils the intimate details and untold stories of the people he encountered on his three-year journey. Meet Walter Jackson, a remarkable 104-year-old citrus farmer from Florida, whose wisdom and resilience leave a lasting impression. Discover Patsy Fribley, a stockyard dealer in Montana, whose commitment to her work embodies the enduring spirit of the American farmer. And be inspired by Aaron Bell, a young 9th generation organic dairy farmer from Maine, who represents the future of sustainable agriculture.

Through Paul Mobley’s exquisite photographs and his heartfelt narrative, the true face of American farming is unveiled, reminding us of the values of simplicity, contentment, and decency that often go unnoticed in our fast-paced world. Paul’s encounters with these farmers extend beyond the lens, as he forms deep connections and gains an understanding of their spirit, both behind the camera and across the dinner table.

Paul’s remarkable work in capturing the essence of American farmers resulted in his celebrated book, “American Farmer: The Heart of Our Country,” which received the prestigious 2009 Western Heritage award for “best photography book” from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Prepare to be moved and inspired as Paul Mobley shares the remarkable stories and captivating images that pay homage to the extraordinary lives of American farmers. This keynote presentation is a testament to the indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication that sustains the heart of our country.

This is a ‘don’t miss’ program!

This program highlights the wisdom of more than fifty extraordinary Americans, who have all celebrated their one hundredth birthday. How can we live to be 100?

Paul Mobley has taken his camera on the road once again, this time to photograph America’s oldest and wisest citizens. Mobley traveled to all fifty states to find these indomitable, extraordinary centenarians. In this inspiring collection of intimate and powerful portraits, direct quotes, and personal stories, we learn that wisdom is the reward for perseverance. The centenarians in Mobley’s stunning portfolio are eyewitnesses to a century dominated by world wars and conflicts, space travel, and cultural and digital revolutions. Their stories are inspirational, educational, and deeply touching. In them, we are reminded that love, loss, hope, and grief are essential ingredients in a full life and that humor can get us through the worst of times. Mobley’s heartfelt portraits are a beautiful tribute to this unique assemblage of Americans. There are more than 70,000 centenarians in the United States alone. Each of them has touched others with their gift of long lives. This program is a celebration of this generation and an inspiration to the rest of us.

In 2010, photographer Paul Mobley and author and editor Katrina Fried set out to find fifty Americans who had made it their business to improve the lives of others. The result is a book and program profiling some of America’s leading social entrepreneurs whose energy and nonprofit organizations have changed the lives of millions around the world, very often one at a time. 

From activists who have rallied the support of hundreds of volunteers to bring such necessities as clean drinking water, economic support, and urgent medical care to developing nations, to educational leaders who are using their gifts to elevate the opportunities of the poor and disadvantaged, to crusaders of equal rights and women’s advocacy, these are remarkable everyday citizens. Fried  and Mobley interviewed this eclectic and passionate group of people and now share their stories, personalities, journeys, and causes. 

You will meet heroes such as infectious disease specialist, Gary Slutkin, who returned from Africa (where he reversed the Aids epidemic in Uganda) to reduce street violence in Chicago with stunning success through his organization CeaseFire; Geoffrey Canada, the founder and CEO of the Harlem Children’s Zone, whose pioneering efforts to reform education in one of New York’s most impoverished neighborhoods has touched thousands of students and families; Susan Burton who after fifteen years in and out of the justice system, rehabilitated herself and started A New Way of Life, which provides housing and support services to formerly incarcerated women in South Central Los Angeles; and Roy Prosterman, a man who has devoted an entire lifetime to securing land rights for the poor throughout the Third World.

Don’t miss award-winning photographer Paul Mobley who brings a grace and epic quality to his images of these remarkable people. Traveling the country to capture his subjects where they live and work, Mobley has created a body of images that harnesses the spirit and energy of giving.