Nybé Ponzio is a French-Malian photographer and video director based in Mali since 2021. His work explores African identity, highlighting the richness of African and Afro-descendant cultures. Through his photographic series and visual storytelling, he seeks to create a dialogue between Africa and its diasporas, revealing the deep cultural connections that unite them.

Drawing on both documentary and artistic photography, as well as video, Ponzio tells an authentically African story, with the ambition of fostering a better understanding of African societies and traditions while challenging existing stereotypes. His work revolves around various themes, including rites and traditions, traditional and contemporary hairstyles, religious celebrations, ways of life, architecture, textiles, and the contemporary art scene.

In December 2021, he presented Aw Bissimilah —which means “Welcome” in Bambara—, his first solo exhibition at H Gallery in Bamako. This retrospective of his residency year in Mali blended traditions, architecture, and a tribute to Malian nature.In 2022, he launched the project and collective An Ka Yetaw—which means “our vision” in Bambara—during the OFF of the Bamako Photography Biennale. This project aims to create spaces for exchange between creatives based in Mali and those from the diaspora. The An Ka Yetaw exhibition was reconducted at the Maison Africaine de la Photographie in the summer of 2023, this time incorporating a new medium, painting, along with discussions (talks) and training workshops.

@visualsbyponzio