I tend to gravitate towards afrocentric thematics and visuals when it comes to my image-making and that is absolutely influenced by my Cameroonian background. I believe in sticking to what I know, what is familiar and/or relatable to me when it comes to telling impactful stories on identity, even visual ones. I primarily photograph African women because that is a big part of my identity and let me just tell you... Sometimes as we're shooting, it's as though my subject and I are both looking into a mirror.
It’s one thing to own your narrative, it’s another to do so unapologetically and fiercely. Michele Eyenga known as Malanebony on instagram is one amongst a million creatives that strives to challenge the overly propagated negative narratives about Black women through her art. She openly shares the motive behind her art, what Black herstory means to her, and the women she calls her support system.
I capture what my subject is already comfortable with allowing me to see about themselves, while focusing on making them feel even more comfortable to let loose and fully tap into their vulnerable side and a story is usually created organically.
Michele is Africa’s own photo-herstorian and this is her story. Full interview availabe now in “The Essence of Creativity” Click here
YOU’RE INVITED!
It’s not just a party. It’s not just an art exhibition & It’s not just a photoshoot. It’s the full experience!
Join our 5th cover star @melanebony and a host of other talented Black artists and creatives on Saturday, May 28th for a night of intentional partying to afro-eclectic sounds, and immersive art consumption.
“I always want my images to play on the concept of duality, highlighting strength, regality, beauty, resiliency, but also vulnerability, rawness, softness and melancholy because those all inform my identity and my experiences as a Black woman.” - Michèle Eyenga
There would be a live photoshoot (featuring the art of a hairstylist, a fashion stylist, a fashion designer, 4 models and 3 photographers that will be capturing them throughout the evening in the space) and finally, it is also a dance party with 3 DJ’s (tunes ranging from amapiano to Afrobeats, to Caribbean music and hip-hop.)
It is going to be an experience for the culture, for Black creatives in the city to network, witness live art and also let loose. Early bird tickets to the experience are now available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/blvck-house-come-groove-tickets-333578701877?utm-campaign=social&utm-co