The Alchemy Of Frame & Grayscale With Kine-Sira

INTERVIEW

PHOTOGRAPHY

Kiné, a photographer with a diverse background spanning Senegal, France, and London, possesses a unique perspective that infuses her work with remarkable insight and philosophy. Her journey as a photographer began within the arty subcultures, capturing moments and expressions that resonated with her. Eventually, she settled in London, where her style evolved into a focus on monochrome photography. This deliberate choice allows her to explore the nuances of light, balance, and composition in a profound manner.


SUpon browsing through Kiné's portfolio, one is struck by the blend of focus, structure, and skill that permeate her black and white images. Each photograph is carefully composed, as she operates within the constraints of limited film. The precision and direction in which she captures each piece reveal her commitment to her craft. Kiné's work extends beyond mere photography; she embraces the role of a historian, using her lens to document people and their experiences rather than just events. Her photographs are a testament to her dedication to capturing sincerity, as she finds beauty in genuine moments rather than curated perfection found in social media feeds.


Kiné draws inspiration from her father, who instilled in her the importance of capturing "people" with authenticity. Her art is an expression of her own personality, and although she may be shy, her energy and happiness have shaped her into the photographer known as 'Kiné'. Her passion for learning and her constant quest for new knowledge is evident, as she immerses herself in various pursuits when she is not actively photographing. And when she isn't engaged in these activities, she takes to the streets, advocating for causes she believes in, marching in solidarity.


An outspoken individual, Kiné does not shy away from addressing sensitive topics related to race and culture. France, where she spent a significant part of her childhood, left a lasting impression on her. She perceives the country as a place marred by overt racism, yet paradoxically fostering a culture where people of color unite under a creative banner. In contrast, London's anti-community ideologies seem to reject the concept of belonging, which Kiné finds troubling. However, she sees these discrepancies as opportunities for exploration and documentation, only capturing images of architecture when it is absolutely necessary.


In her work, Kiné has recently embarked on a practice of portraying men through a subconscious "feminine gaze." This approach allows her to capture the delicate aspects of masculinity that may often go unnoticed or underrepresented. Her ability to find beauty in the ordinary and to perceive the divine in the mundane sets her apart as an artist. What stands out most in her art is her profound desire to understand—she takes a deeply introspective approach to her focused style, deconstructing what it means to be an artist, a human being, and a historian. Through her photographs, she manifests this exploration, revealing a fusion of art and science that is both captivating and thought-provoking.