Malick Sidibé: Hidden Gems
The book “Painted Frames” reveals a late and little-known series by Malian photographer Malick Sidibé, which reimagines his black-and-white photographs within hand-painted frames, created by the artist in collaboration with local artisans.
Known as the 'Eye of Bamako,' the artist documented the lives, style, and energy of post-independence Mali, from the lively youth dance halls of the city to the powerful portraits in his studio, capturing his country with sincerity and closeness during a time of cultural transformation.
By juxtaposing vivid colors with the black-and-white images and adding a layer of craftsmanship to the prints, the frames transform the photographs into dynamic objects, circulated and proudly displayed as symbols of identity and self-expression. They reveal the deeper social purpose at the heart of Sidibé’s practice.
The book “Painted Frames” is published by Loose Joints and available at the price of 56 Euro. The series is also part of a retrospective on Malick Sidibé’s work at Jack Shainman Gallery in New York City, until May 31st.
