Malick Sidibé
Mali (1936-2016)
Biennale Images Vevey
2010
Bagadadji
Bagadadji
In 1962, in the wake of Mali’s independence, Malick Sidibé opened his studio in the popular Bamako neighborhood of Bagadadji. Between 1960 and 1970, a wind of freedom blew over the country with its nightlife, bals poussières (dusty-dancing parties), rock, pop and soul music. Zazous in their Sunday best, yéyés in flared trousers and boxers mimicking a fight all rushed to pose for the photographer who served as president of the Jury for the Grand Prix Images Vevey 2009/2010. Displayed in the inner courtyard of a school, behind the windows of the gym, these portraits express the carefreeness of the Malian youth of the time.
