Commissioned by New York Magazine’s ‘The Cut‘, African Queens is a photography series by Swiss photographer Namsa Leuba which is an attempt of showcasing the African culture through the lens of the Occident. Leuba was highly inspired by her mother who is Guinean. Leuba spent two years in Africa where she had the opportunity to research and closely experience African culture. She also captured some very interesting images which were inclined towards a highly creative expression.
Leuba shot the entire series in her mother’s hometown of Conakry where a group of local women were dressed with a knitted fashion garments provided by The Cut. “Upon receiving The Cut’s shipment of clothing, Leuba requested some large, colorful necklaces. She then plucked a trio of women off the street in Paris, explaining, “Most of the time, models are too skinny,” but when one didn’t show up to Leuba’s studio, Leuba stood in for her. Using Topshop and Carven sweaters as skirts, putting wood planks in a Thom Browne jacket, tying her models together with rope, and styling a broom as a mohawk, Leuba elaborated on her idea of African statues, this time from a fashion perspective.”
