Manhood

A shoot inspired by the ’The ambassadors’ painting by Hans Holbein. The ambassadors painting shows two men standing dressed extravagantly opposite each other. The men are surrounded by objects which, when decoded, appear to be visual representations of the progression of science and astrology during Holbein’s time (with philosophical and religious undertones). Holbein’s composition inspired the set design of this shoot, with his use of objects as symbols becoming a primal element of the manhood shoot’s conceptualisation. The intention behind the shoot was to capture positive/heroic black male ‘archetype-like’ figures. The models from this shoot are allegories of men within the African diaspora. The items around the men allude to the wealth, beauty and artistry that derives from the African diaspora. Manhood is a shoot dedicated to showing black men in king-like roles. The costumes from Holbein’s painting were somewhat recreated and decorated with different royal African inspired accessories. All these decisions were made to visually create a version of what a contemporary renaissance black man may look like. Creative director, stylist, set designer and editor – Noreen M H Lighting and Photography – Ruby Williams Models – Samuel Ogunleye and Charles Gawu