In conversation : Nana Yaw ODURO and the hidden tales of boyhood
Rooted in a deep connection to memory and place, Nana Yaw Oduro’s photography unfolds like a visual poem on boyhood—one that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. His images, at once intimate and stirring, depicts boyhood as an ongoing narrative of self-discovery, informed by personal history, recollections, and the visual lexicon of his surroundings. His approach seizes instances of introspection, innocence, and subtle defiance, each frame charged with a quiet yet potent energy.
Nana Yaw ODURO
Born in 1994 and based in Accra, Nana has rapidly gained international recognition. His work has been featured in The New York Times and earned him the People’s Choice Award, Photo London x Nikon Emerging Artist of the Year (2022). In this interview, and in the context of Black History Month, Nana reflects on his artistic language, the shifting landscape of African photography, and the enduring resonance of storytelling through the still image.
Maria YIGOUTI : Your photography has evolved through a sophisticated interplay of color, light, and the intimate portrayal of your subjects. Can you tell us about the progression of your artistic practice and how it reflects your journey?
Nana Yaw ODURO : I’ve always described my art as a reflection of self—delving into boyhood, adulthood, and the journey toward self-acceptance. For me, art is inherently progressive, and in my practice, this evolution is unmistakable. I've witnessed a shift in my priorities, especially in the level of depth I seek to convey.
I began with poetry, but over time, I felt drawn to a more visual form of expression. I believed this would make my work more inviting and engaging, as I came to understand that people are often more inclined to look than to read. At its core, my images are my poetry visualized.
How it is at Home.
Maria YIGOUTI : Your backdrops are pivotal to your narrative, rich with cultural symbols and innermost iconography. How do you approach the symbiosis between memories and places to inform your artistic practice and thematic direction?
Nana Yaw ODURO : Memory plays a fundamental role in my work, reflecting my journey from my early days to where I am now. Every experience and lesson I've encountered forms the bedrock of my art, continually fueling its evolution. Like most people, I draw from my memory, revisiting past moments to inspire and refine my ideas.
When I speak of “place,” I refer to my environment and surroundings, which serve as the background for my work. These elements are integral in shaping my identity and social beliefs, forming the foundation of all that I know. Much of my work is created within these settings, making it deeply significant to my creative process. The art feels as though it is born naturally, emerging right where it all began.
“For me, art is inherently progressive, and in my practice, this evolution is unmistakable. ”
Maria YIGOUTI : Your work strikes a delicate balance between natural impulse and careful organization of visual components. How do you harmonize planning and instinct in your creative process, and how does this impact the pieces you produce?
Nana Yaw ODURO : My approach is inherently instinctual, and that is reflected in my work. I don’t always meticulously plan my creations; rather, inspiration often strikes in unpredictable moments. Nevertheless, there are key elements—like subject selection, set creation, and securing props—that are integral to the process, bridging the gap between conceptualization and execution.
On set, I embrace improvisation to break stiff barriers I might have created during the planning stage, allowing for a more fluid and expressive creative stream. In this way, the foundational planning helps me be more free-flowing during the shoot.
Maria YIGOUTI : How has the visibility of African photography evolved in recent years, and what do you believe has been the driving force behind its growing prominence on the global stage?
Nana Yaw ODURO : In recent years, propelled by the reach of the internet, the brilliance of African art has garnered a far broader audience, attaining greater prominence within the global art community. The world is now able to partake in the richness that surrounds us, including the distinctive artistry of African photography.
I am convinced that African photography has always been on an upward trajectory, evident in the diverse range of styles and the singularity of artists—from the classic masters to contemporary pioneers. The shift, however, lies in visibility—empowered by the internet and supporting platforms. Historical research reveals that there have always been remarkable African photographers and masters of the craft, but their exposure was hindered by circumstances of the past. Still, we have always been here. We have always existed.
“The world is now able to partake in the richness that surrounds us, including the distinctive artistry of African photography”
Maria YIGOUTI : Do you see photography as an essential tool for cultural preservation, and how do you believe it plays a role in documenting and safeguarding history and heritage?
Nana Yaw ODURO : Photography has played a pivotal role in preserving and documenting much of our culture and history. Its importance to the world is indisputable, offering a visual testament to what once existed and what endures today. I firmly believe, and I’m confident many would agree, that there is no better tool for cultural preservation. This is something we cannot overlook or fail to recognize.
Find the work of Nana Yaw Oduro on Artsy, Afikaris and on his personal spaces.
