A Landmark Exhibition of West African Portraiture
David Hill and Carrie Scott proudly present Gloire Immortelle, the debut solo exhibition of Rachidi Bissiriou, one of West Africa’s most important photographers. Spanning two decades of work—from the late 1960s to the late 1980s—this exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of Bissiriou’s remarkable career, rooted in the heart of Benin’s visual culture.
Hailed as “West Africa’s photographic master” by The Guardian, Bissiriou’s portraits capture the spirit, style, and changing social landscape of his hometown, Kétou, Benin. His images, celebrated for their freshness and simplicity, exude a contemporary quality that resonates powerfully today.
Studio Plaisir: A Window into Benin’s Past
In 1968, at just 18 years old, Bissiriou founded his photographic studio, Studio Plaisir (Studio Pleasure) in Kétou, which he ran until 2004. His ambition was driven by a simple yet profound belief:
"Someone who is a photographer has the freedom to go anywhere and everywhere."
Though his work was primarily focused on the residents and families of Kétou, his photographs offer far more than mere documentation. They serve as windows into a society undergoing transformation, capturing a West Africa emerging into modernity, self-expression, and new cultural identities.
Portraits That Transcend Time
The striking black-and-white portraits in Gloire Immortelle radiate a quiet confidence. Subjects pose with ease and authenticity, their subtle smiles and pensive expressions revealing a deep connection with the photographer. His ability to capture the essence of his subjects sets his work apart, allowing for moments of intimate self-expression rarely seen in formal portraiture.
As Creative Review describes:
"These beautiful black-and-white portraits, which exhibit a remarkably contemporary style, offer an insight into the emerging cultural trends of the time. The subjects themselves appear notably relaxed in front of the lens—a testament to Bissiriou’s connection with them."
Bissiriou’s portraits are not just historical records; they are living testaments to the style, resilience, and personality of the individuals he photographed. Whether capturing the pride of a young man posing on his Honda in 1978, or the quiet dignity of a grandmother in Kétou in 1974, his work tells stories of generations navigating a changing world.
A Legacy Uncovered
Despite his influence on West African photography, Bissiriou’s work has remained largely underrecognized—until now. With the publication of Gloire Immortelle by Stanley Barker, his images are finally receiving the international attention they deserve. As AnOther Magazine notes, he is “one of West Africa’s most important image-makers.”
For those interested in the intersection of art, culture, and history, Gloire Immortelle is an essential exhibition. It is a celebration of identity, community, and the enduring power of portraiture, showcasing a body of work that remains as relevant and compelling today as when it was first created.
Gloire Immortelle is on view at David Hill Gallery, London, from June to September 2022.
