Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Seydou Keita


Seydou Keita was an African photographer who took the most extraordinary black and white portrait photographs of his family and friends.  he would sometimes back his subjects with these really cool curtains of printed fabrics.  there was an amazing depth, soul, and innate style to his photographs.  i remember getting a book of his when i was still in high school and really loving it.  it was just fresh and the subjects were all so beyond amazing.  they all looked so elegant and poised.  i remember he had this fashion moment shortly thereafter- an editorial in Harper's Bazaar and i also think John Galliano paid homage to Mr. Keita's eclectic style with his spring/summer 1998 collection.  it's amazing to see photographs like these, almost like 40 years later.  and they still pack an incredible punch.  no fancy gimmicks or photoshop.  just a beautiful photo.

i remember Janet Jackson's music video 'got 'till it's gone' paid heavy reference to Mr. Keita too.


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