“These women survivors of sexual assault are reclaiming their narrative through photograph and collage”
Delphine Diallo, a French-Senegalese artist and activist, recently released a stunning photography series in conjunction with Save the children for International Day of The Girl (October 11th). Diallo travelled to La Maison Rose, a safehouse for young women in Dakar (many of whom have children) that provides them with the necessary tools to recover and reintegrate into their societies. Diallo spent several days in conversation with women recovering from sexual abuse and exploitation, photographing them and listening to their stories in a workshop setting.
The distinguishing element of this project, both aesthetically and contextually, was the direct collaboration between Diallo and the women that diverges from the traditional photographer-subject dynamic. Each of the victims were able to shape their individual portraits through the use of collage, actively reclaiming their narrative and aiding their recovery. Each black and white portrait, striking yet soft, is beautifully framed by the vibrant and outspoken artwork of the women themselves. Despite the anonymity of the subject, the women’s ideas, personalities, fears and dreams are given active space and agency to be clearly heard.
In a society [and wider world] that frequently ignores or justifies gendered and sexual violence against women, these stories serve as a poignant spotlight on the greater societal issue - both within the country, as well as the wider world where Rape Culture still perpetuates sexual abuse of women.
The individual stories of the girls in the project can be found here.
