What was it like growing up?

Growing up in a Gabonese and Congolese household has been an experience as captivating as it was inspiring. It has taught me enormously about who I am, where I come from and what I belong to. I have forged strong ties with Africa, especially Central Africa.

 

How does culture and identity influence your work?

For any artist inspiration comes from cultural belonging and lifestyle. I am inspired by life itself and everything that encompasses this, including men. Living in Gabon meant that I was immediately immersed in it all – I’m sensitive to what I see, the way I face life’s realities and social discrimination.

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A degree in Banking and Finance isn’t the usual art path. How did you end up here?

My father had just cut me off and I had to earn money on my own. I started out shooting portraits and doing street photography.

 

After I graduated I had a hard time finding a job in the financial sector. I worked independently as a photographer for a year, before moving to Paris.

 

What do you like most about black and white photography?

Black and white speaks louder than colour. The colours in a picture can often be distracting, and sometimes we don’t truly discern the message the photographer wants to send. But with black and white the eye is focused on the essentials.

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What is your earliest memory?

The coconut trees along the seashore of Libreville in Gabon, fresh air and the way the sunrays illuminated my skin.