Les Abidjanais

During my recent journey to Côte d'Ivoire, I captured enchanting moments in the captivating city of Abidjan. Abidjan, a vibrant metropolis in West Africa, blends different ethnicities harmoniously, showcasing diverse culinary, artistic, and musical aspects. Côte d'Ivoire is home to sixty ethnic groups, each with unique cultures, including striking masks symbolizing spiritual, ritual, and artistic richness. These masks, representing ancestral spirits and mythical figures, play a vital role in African traditions, allowing communication with the spiritual world and expression of emotions. Beyond their cultural significance, African masks are admired for their artistic expression. My series of photographs aims to depict these masks integrated into daily life in Abidjan, showcasing various ethnic groups such as the Sénoufos, the Baoulés, and the Yakoubas.