Step into the vibrant world of mid-century Mali through the lens of master photographer Seydou Keïta. His genius at capturing portraits, now featured in the Brooklyn Museum’s exhibition “Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens,” was once so sought-after that people traveled for days to visit his Bamako studio. More than just photographs, these images are a profound record of a society in flux, beautifully capturing individual identity during the transition from French rule to independence. The show highlights Keïta’s mastery of using props, textiles, and poses to reveal the inner lives of his sitters, from men and women on Vespas to boys in Western clothing. By presenting small vintage prints alongside larger modern versions, the exhibition explores how these photographs functioned as both personal heirlooms and significant artworks.
Okay Africa
