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Samuel Fosso

Cameroon
1962
His self-portraits explore themes of identity, gender, and cultural heritage, reflecting his interest in African history and politics.

Samuel Fosso, born in 1962, is a Cameroonian-born Nigerian photographer known for his self-portraits that often explore African history and identity through various personas.

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His work has received international acclaim, including the Prince Claus Award and the Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize.

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Fosso's photography is celebrated for its introspective exploration of self-presentation and gender representation, employing props, costumes, and poses to challenge and celebrate black iconic figures and cultural narratives .

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Artworks

Dressed in a grey suit and tie, and wearing glasses, the artist holds a landline telephone in a deliberately posed manner. His gaze is directed into the distance, and his smile suggests a sense of optimism or aspiration. The white background adds a corporate sterility.
Tati - Businessman 1
1997
In a wider shot, the artist is again on the phone but this time without glasses. His full attire, down to his shoes, is visible. The white background is punctuated by the casting of three distinct shadows, adding a surreal touch.
Tati - Businessman 2
1997
Surrounded by a medley of fabrics and patterns, the artist sits on a leopard-print chair, holding sunflowers. He wears a hat made of animal fur and pants in a similar print. Gold necklaces and a fancy ring add a touch of bling. His shoes are off, placed beside a small mat for his bare feet. A bag with fabric lies next to the chair.
Tati - Chief
1997
Dressed in traditional golfing attire, the artist holds what appears to be an old-fashioned wooden club. His gloves seem oversized, and he wears glasses. The backdrop is a painted sheet that resembles a field, yet the lighting is so muted that he almost blends into the sky.
Tati - Golfer
1997
Donning a suit bursting with colours and patterns, purple heels, and an eclectic mix of jewellery, the artist also wears a scarf on his head topped with a hat. The backdrop mimics a natural setting, painted to resemble leaves and greenery, while the floor looks like a woven picnic basket.
Tati - Liberated Woman
1997
Clad only in a towel and sporting swimming goggles, the artist presents a bare torso against a stark white background. The minimalistic setting focuses attention on the subject, evoking a sense of vulnerability and strength.
Tati - Lifeguard
1997
Draped in a black formal dress and adorned with a wig, the artist sits elegantly on a chair. The rich red background serves as a vivid contrast, amplifying the sense of sophistication and grace.
Tati - Middle Class Woman 1
1997
A close-up reveals the artist's face adorned with a muted, almost inebriated smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes. He holds a white fur jacket and wears an array of fancy jewellery, adding layers of opulence.
Tati - Middle Class Woman 2
1997
Wearing a pointed hat and a silver band wrapped around his head to cover one eye, the artist dons an unbuttoned Victorian jacket that exposes his chest. He holds pieces of jewellery, adding a touch of plunder to the portrait.
Tati - Pirate
1997
Set against a red background, the artist embodies the quintessential rocker in a leather jacket, gold-patterned pants, and dark glasses. The vivid backdrop amplifies the rebellious spirit of the character.
Tati - Rocker
1997
Dressed in a sailor's hat, jacket, and white pants, the artist leans on a wooden frame, his gaze directed into the distance. The pose evokes a sense of longing or perhaps contemplation of voyages yet to come.
Tati - Sailor
1997
See our sources
Tati Series: Samuel Fosso
Samuel Fosso Official
Samuel Fosso: Official Site
Samuel Fosso Official
Tati Series
Samuel Fosso Official