Deconstructing the stereotype
Drawing from her roots in Nigeria and Jamaica, as well as her experience of being a young black woman in south-east London – whose skin colour, hair, and body type were nowhere to be found in the pages of magazines – Nadine Ijewere’s approach to photography has led to some groundbreaking – and stunning – work.
We see dazzling colours, dreamlike backgrounds and the fierce gazes of beautiful women. Her first book showcases Ijewere’s signature hallmarks, and it’s also clear to see her passion for challenging traditional concepts of beauty. She’s keen to embrace diversity both behind and in front of the lens. We asked her for more details.
AP: What are your biggest inspirations?
NI: There is nothing more powerful than the love that resides within close communities. An important journey for me was going to both Nigeria and Jamaica: one similarity I found on my many trips to these places was a strong sense of community, a warm welcoming energy. I embody this positivity and togetherness in my work because it’s beautiful to see this type of love. I admire these people very much. I am who I am because of the people around me.
AP: You speak about the pressure to be a representative for your
