Ananias Léki Dago, born in 1970 in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, is celebrated for his insightful and immersive black and white photography. His body of work predominantly investigates social phenomena within African cities, delving into the multifaceted character of urban life across the continent. Dago's photographic series, such as "Shebeen Blues" focused on the shebeens (informal bars) in Johannesburg's townships, "Bamako Crosses" examining the ubiquity of rickshaws in Mali, and "Mabati" showcasing the corrugated metal sheets that define Nairobi's landscape, reveal his profound engagement with the continent's urban environments.

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Dago's approach to photography is characterized by a unique aesthetic of fragility, where he often portrays faces obscured or turned away, suggesting the ephemeral nature of human experiences. This method is part of his broader strategy to capture the essence of spaces and moments where life's fragility is palpable. His work frequently employs layers, gaps, and frames within frames, suggesting multiple interpretations and perspectives. Through these techniques, Dago opens dialogues on hope, forms, and lines, inviting viewers to engage deeply with each image. His work with the shebeens, for example, highlights their transformation from apartheid-era resistance symbols to contemporary social spaces, reflecting changes in South African society.

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Having moved to France in 2002 due to the political and social crisis in Côte d'Ivoire, Dago has since returned to his photographic explorations across Africa, contributing significantly to contemporary African photography. His works have been acquired by prestigious institutions such as The Philadelphia Museum of Art, evidencing the international recognition of his contribution to the arts.

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