An Abstract Portrayal of Survivors in Nigeria

Nigerian photographer Etinosa Yvonne combines her portraits of those who have survived terrorist attacks and conflict with superimposed images of their beloved places in order to examine how they cope to overcome the struggle.

Nigerian photographer Etinosa Yvonne combines her portraits of those who have survived terrorist attacks and conflict with superimposed images of their beloved places in order to examine how they cope to overcome the struggle.

In the last twenty years, Nigeria has witnessed an increase in terrorism and violent conflicts. Some of these survivors have witnessed the most violent acts been meted out on them, their loved ones and in some cases all that they own.

Over the years, these survivors find a way to rebuild and adjust to their new lives. However, many of them never get to talk about their experiences. Thus, a lot of these survivors go through life burdened with thoughts of the things they witnessed and all they lost. I am exploring how these survivors struggle to move on by using their portraits, layered with things and places that help them to move forward.

Words and Pictures by Etinosa Yvonne.

--------------

Etinosa Yvonne (b. 1989) is a Nigerian documentary photographer and visual artist currently living in Abuja. She works with various art forms including photos and videos. Etinosa is one of six talents selected for the 2020 cycle of the World Press Photo 6x6 Africa talent. Find her on PHmuseum and Instagram.

---------------

This feature is part of Story of the Week, a selection of relevant projects from our community handpicked by the PHmuseum curators.