In a recent heart-to-heart with Afrique Noire, the talented British- Sierra Leonean photographer, Salima, shared the story and vision behind his captivating his evocative photography series, ‘Swit Salone: Beauty in the Unseen’. Salima’s narrative is as captivating as the visual tales he weaves through his lens, embodying a deep-seated appreciation for Sierra Leonean culture. The conversation delved into the essence of these images and the broader narrative they hint at, reflecting Salima’s profound appreciation for representation in photography.
The rendezvous with Georgiana marked the commencement of a series of shoots Salima had planned. Opting for a less complex shoot initially, the images captured were metaphorically described as the ‘calm before the storm,’ alluding to the more intense shooting days that lay ahead. This shoot served as a pilot, gauging the kind of magic Salima and his team could create within a span of three hours at a single location. The results were nothing short of astounding, setting a promising precedent for the days to follow.
Salima, with a robust background of five years in the creative domain, has always harbored a passion for elucidating representation through his lenses. His photographic narratives often revolve around Afro-Caribbean talents, encapsulated in a medley of striking portraits adorned with bold colors and highlights. This distinctive style shines a light on the vibrant and diverse cultural tapestry, making his work resonate with many.
The shoot with Georgiana was part of Salima’s larger vision conceived during his maiden voyage to Sierra Leone. Armed with a camera and a vision to encapsulate the essence of Sierra Leone, Salima embarked on a mission to create something awe-inspiring. His aim was simple yet profound: to craft visual stories that would beckon people to explore and celebrate the rich culture of Sierra Leone.
Titled ‘Swit Salone: Beauty in the Unseen’, this ongoing series is Salima’s heartfelt ode to the land, its people, and its culture. The series unearths the intrinsic beauty, the undying spirit, and the cultural richness of Sierra Leone, all encapsulated in frames ready to be exhibited to the world. Salima’s hope is to evoke a sense of admiration and a longing to delve deeper into the cultural essence of Sierra Leone through his photographic series.
The tale of Georgiana is just a glimpse into Salima’s broader vision. It’s about seeing beyond the obvious, exploring the unexplored, and celebrating the unseen beauty that Sierra Leone holds. Through the lens of Salima, each photograph is more than just a visual delight; it’s a voyage into the heart of Sierra Leone, capturing the ethos of ‘Swit Salone’ and inviting viewers to celebrate the unseen beauty it encapsulates.
As Salima continues to traverse through the photographic realms of Sierra Leone, each frame curated adds a new dimension to the unfolding narrative of ‘Swit Salone: Beauty in the Unseen’. It’s a journey of discovery, appreciation, and a sincere endeavor to share Sierra Leone’s rich cultural narrative with the world.
