Angèle Etoundi Essamba

Angèle Etoundi Essamba is a Cameroonian photographer living and working in Amsterdam. She is most famously known for her work in black and white, humanistic photography, that often focuses on the African woman as a subject matter.

Quotes

• Living in Europe and the encounters I made around the world through exhibitions and travels definitely shaped my artwork. I arrived at a young age in Europe and rapidly felt disconnected from my culture and way of living. In a way, photography allowed me to reconnect with my African roots. At the end of the day, my heritage is African. Paradoxically, being abroad actually brought me closer to the African continent. This is why themes like communication, roots and communion are omnipresent in my artwork.
• It is very important for me to transmit my knowledge and experience. I am proud and grateful for what I have achieved as a black woman, and I believe I can use that success to help and inspire emerging artists. The Venice Biennale has had 59 Editions since its creation in 1895 and out of 54 African countries, only 8 have been represented at this year’s edition. As such, representing Cameroon at this exhibition is historic for my country and I believe I have a role to play in opening a path for others.
• And is the image of African women you wish to convey the same as in the 90s? My message hasn’t changed. Stereotypes are still very much present. Even nowadays, people tend to be surprised with my works due to their preconception of the African continent and African women. In a way, all of my projects translate this wish to break away from stereotypes. Although I cannot change the world, I believe I can contribute to this evolution of mindsets.
  • Artist spotlight: an interview with Angèle Etoundi Essamba,By The Bridge Gallery, retrieved on July 25th, 2022