Dans Le Milieu

In West Africa “improper or unnatural acts with a person of the same sex” are punishable. Coming out has far-reaching consequences; rejection by family and friends, loss of job and home and the risk of imprisonment. Nevertheless, some dare to show themselves. This is a small selection of the 43 portraits i shot during my 7 week stay. I met amazing, brave and proud men and women who gave me their time, stories and with many risks their faces. This series won Zilveren Camera Award for portrait series and gold at the SO 2014 Awards. I had a solo exhibition showing all 43 portraits in Melkweg Gallery and Museum De Fundatie featured portraits from this series in the" DUTCH IDENTITY- Dutch Portrait Photography Now" exhibition ( januari 2016 - 17 april 2016 )