OR THE EXPLOSION OF COLOUR
Afrique – Gabon
The Gabonese photographer explores the diversity of the black continent and its diaspora in images bathed in colour, the battle to challenge the colonial stereotypes conveyed by the West.
Yannis Davy Guibinga is one of a new generation of rising talents on the African art scene who are taking their art head-on to break down the colonial representation and cultural imperialism of the West. This self-taught Gabonese photographer, based in Montreal, examines identities on the dark continent through the intersection of gender, sexuality and socio-economic status. The 28-year-old artist gave a TED talk at the University of Toronto on the role of photography in activism. Her images celebrate colour, movement and form, documenting the variations of her “powerful, beautiful and dignified” homeland.
TRANSCENDING TIME
Melting Daylight invites us on a journey into the changing nature of the setting sun via “a kaleidoscope of colours that paints the sky in a harmonious symphony”. Each image captures this transition between light and shadow, from fiery orange and passionate pink to serene shades of blue and yellow. “[This series] serves as a poignant reminder of the transience of life itself, urging us to cherish each passing moment and find solace in the ever-changing world,” explains Yannis Davy Guibinga. Equinox evokes astronomy, science fiction and the importance of the Moon and stars in West and Central African cultures. The images probe the mysteries of the cosmos and the lasting influence of cultural heritage.
MERMAID DANCE
With “Daughter of the Lake”, the photographer continues his observations, drawing on Gabonese folklore around mermaids and mystical aquatic creatures, such as Mami Wata. With “Nia Guin”, he pays tribute to the art of movement in sub-Saharan African cultures, drawing visually on abstract paintings, starring a dancer and choreographer from Burundi. Here, he depicts both the fluidity and robustness of movement, using textures and colours that create almost surreal images. Discovered on Instagram in 2018, Yannis Davy Guibinga thus continues his rise, celebrating his colourful roots in galleries and art markets around the world.
Nathalie Dassa
Photography credits & Creative direction: Yannis Davy Guibinga
« Melting Daylight » (2023)
Photography: Yannis Davy Guibinga
Featuring: Nick Desilus
« NIA GUIN » (2023)
Photography: Yannis Davy Guibinga
Featuring: Axelle Munezero
« Daughter Of The Lake » (2023)
Photography & Styling: Yannis Davy Guibinga
Featuring : Jenna Abeke
Make-up: Aissatou Mansaly
« Equinox » (2023)
Photography & Styling: Yannis Davy Guibinga
Featuring Karen Daoudak
« Daybreak at Crystal Mountain » (2023)
Photography & Styling: Yannis Davy Guibinga