Malick Sidibé’s work was prominent in the 1960’s and 1970’s when Mali gained its independence from the French and subsequently transitioned into and out of socialism. This cultural transformation became an underlying theme in Sidibé’s work. I love how his photography captures the exuberance of youth in Bamako-they are some of the most endearing photos I’ve seen. A good photographer captures a great image, however a great photographer captures a spirit.
While it is hard to choose a favorite, this one always makes me smile.
I also love Chris Ofili’s rendering of this photo that he created for his 2014 “Night and Day” show at the New Museum in New York.
Happy Valentines Day!
The “Artist a Day Challenge” celebrates Black History Month by highlighting Black artists and diverse forms of cultural expression across the African diaspora.
