Afropolitans
2013-present
internal colour diffusion transfer printing (Fuji Instax wide)
Afropolitans reflects on the under representation of modern Afropolites within Western culture. The term 'Afropolite'" a portmanteau of 'African' and cosmopolitan', encompasses a subculture that has a profound connection to African culture, heritage, or identity, while also embracing a global perspective and engaging with diverse cultures and experiences. The term was coined by writer Taiye Selasi, who described Afropolitans in her 2005 essay ‘Bye-Bye Barbar’ as 'the newest generation of hip African emigrants. People with funny blends of fashion, multilingual and with academic successes. Some of them ethnic mixes. People who do not belong to a single geography but feel at home in many with at least one place on the (African) continent to which they tie their sense of self. A country, a city or an auntie’s kitchen.'
Inspired by the positivity of the term Afropolitans, I started to look for images of them but all I could find at the time were products. The image of an Afropolitan was hijacked by capitalism. I decided to look for people who could identify with the term Afropolitan and portray them in this series. A positive and true representation free of the misinterpretation and distorted lenses.
Because I want to limit any space for change after capturing my subjects
I decided to shoot on instant film. In this series I am not interested in my interpretation of a person as a photographer. For that reason I ask everyone how they want to be seen by the world. Instead of the subject being a mere spectator of how I use my camera for my interpretations, this approach brings out more of a collaboration in forming the narrative. I only ask to photograph everyone in their homes or a place that feels like home. All are free to choose the location in the home, what to wear and whatever object or people they want to bring into the shot. This reflected in people choosing their wardrobe or workplace as a set or wanting to be shot with burning incense between their teeth as part of their stories.
Afropolitans has been exhibited in 2023 in the Nederlands Fotomuseum Rotterdam. As part of the exhibition Snelfotografie.
more coming soon