The Easel

Malick Sidibe: Mali’s Party Photographer Par Excellence

Because his camera had a flash Sidibe got invited to parties – sometimes four a night. His joyful party images, which ultimately won him international acclaim, celebrated youth and chronicled Mali’s changing social norms. “It was a very powerful moment for young Malian men to see themselves dancing with a girl. That didn’t exist before.” Sidibe died last week. A recent interview and images are here.

Image: L’Oeil de la Photographie