Body as Performance

Body as Performance

Nana Yaw Oduro (b. 1994) is a conceptual photographer based in Accra, Ghana. Oduro’s images are deeply inspired by poetry and spoken word from the likes of Leonard Cohen and Charles Bukowski, amongst others. Based on a creative process that transforms words into visuals, these images explore boyhood, masculinity and identity. The photographs are a visual manifestation of movement, thought and emotion – expressed through bold colours that juxtapose against black bodies. Bare backs stretch outwards toward the sun; oranges nestle within overlapping arms; knees dip into stretches of open water. Bright yellows, greens, reds and blues draw the viewer into silent narratives. The figures express emotions through subtle positions and gestures: kneeling, hiding or leaning into abstract landscapes. They reveal an “action” of sorts – like the first line of a story. Oduro asks the viewer to fill in the rest. instagram.com/the.vintage.mason.


  • Nana Yaw Oduro, Fruits Are For Boys. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, Camel Heart. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, Present Burden. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, The Prayer II. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, Take It Easy, But Take It. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, God Body. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, Untitled. Courtesy of the artist.

  • Nana Yaw Oduro, Pounding Heart. Courtesy of the artist.

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