Hi, I’m Anaïs Djenebou Koné, born and raised in Antwerp, Belgium and currently studying photography at the Sint Lukas Academy in Brussels.

My work is mainly rooted in portraiture as I use photography as a means to create connection, a component that I see as the fundament on which life is created. It shapes us in profound ways, defining much of who we are and therefore helps me frame my understanding and position in relation to the world.

I see communion as something that can take on many forms and meanings. Through my work, I try to capture these different articulations. To my belief it is deeply intertwined with authenticity and self expression; it invites a sense of playfulness, lets us embrace curiosity, and challenges us to be more present. Besides this I strongly believe that creating community in a society that profits from disconnection is a form of resistance.

These elements play a big part in my preference for film photography, as it is a means that is much slower and more considerate than using a digital camera.

I often find myself drawn to people in whom I see parts of myself reflected. This is why “identity” is another important aspect of my work. Blackness, being into fashion, loving shared movement, getting lost in details, being queer and advocating for liberation are elements of who I am and can be found back in my photographs.

For me, photography is not just about making images but also finding a sense of belonging.