Essence is a powerful celebration of individuality and self-acceptance. This series features girls with vitiligo, their unique beauty highlighted through the integration of natural elements. The pink trees and misty fields add a dreamlike quality to the portraits, symbolizing the harmony between human identity and nature.
“This blending of elements speaks to the idea of finding beauty and strength in one's uniqueness, embracing who you are, and integrating that identity with the natural world.”
"Royal" encapsulates the essence of inner strength and nobility. The crown symbolizes not just external authority, but an inherent dignity that comes from within. The ethereal backdrop enhances the sense of timeless elegance.
"Radiant" tells the story of her inner light, a beacon of hope and strength that shines through every challenge. Her radiance is not just in her beauty, but in her spirit, which brightens the world around her. Joshua uses the interplay of sunlight and the subject's serene expression to symbolize resilience and hope.
“Capturing the essence of a person, isn't just their physical appearance but also their spirit and identity.”
"Rare" depicts a moment of profound stillness, where Joshua beautifully captures the concept of unique beauty. The stillness and clarity of the image focus the our attention on her distinctive features, celebrating her individuality. True beauty lies in our unique traits and authentic selves.
"Bold" shows the subject taking a stand, telling the story of her courage and willingness to defy expectations. She steps forward with confidence, unafraid to break boundaries and challenge the status quo. She is a warrior, not in armor, but in spirit.
“Beauty isn't limited to conventional standards, but is found in the individuality of each person.”
"Feeling" tells the story of her inner life, the complexities and layers of her emotions laid bare. Whether it's joy, sorrow, hope, or contemplation, she wears her heart on her sleeve, unafraid to show her true self. Every emotion is valid and worth expressing.
"Graceful" serves as a reminder of the power of grace, capturing the subject in a moment of serene elegance. Her grace is not just in her movements but in her presence, a soft yet undeniable force that brings peace and harmony.
“I've been through a lot, and being able to express myself through images has made me feel whole again. Having others resonate with my work has been defining for me.”
Curator's Statement (juujuumama)
"Joshua's work is deeply personal, reflecting his own journey and experiences. Through Essence, he invites us to see beauty beyond conventional standards and appreciate the unique qualities that make each of us special. This exhibition is a tribute to diversity and the strength found in embracing our true selves. It's a reminder that our differences are what make us beautiful and that our identity is deeply connected to the world around us."
"Itan" translates to "story" or "history" in Yoruba. Yoruba people are one of the largest and most culturally significant ethnic groups in West Africa. Yoruba culture is known for its vibrant and expressive arts, including sculpture, textiles, music, dance, and storytelling. Yoruba art has a strong emphasis on symbolism and spirituality and has influenced the broader African art world. Itan Foundation World isn’t just about displaying art, but also about telling the stories and histories of West African artists, their cultures and their creative journeys. Each artwork is selected for its ability to evoke a sense of storytelling and exploration.