What did you achieve throughout this creative residency ? What is the result (created work) ? Who was involved in the creation process ?
During the period of residence, I was able to realize a series of photo covering the GOMA’s inhabitants’ daily life. I addressed the question related to the way Congolese women are living this crisis. How, during this period of generalized despair, the women of my community were able to surpass themselves and make something out of their lives. Thanks to the grant I was able to make a photobook containing all the stories I have worked on.
During this creation, a graphic designer, an assistant photographer, and a writer/text editor were involved.
How do you think these activities allow people to reflect on today’s world : regarding the COVID-19 crisis, and/or the shaping of the tomorrow ?
This grant has pushed me to see beyond what we are used to seeing on daily basis. During the pandemic crisis, some wonderful projects emerged. The creation of this book will allow the world to understand that no matter what situation we are in, we can always find a way to make the best out of things and give meaning to our lives. It is all about points of view and perspectives. Beyond everything else, there is also a projection into the future, a preparation for the future. That is why the topics, my project deals with, are relevant in the present as well as in the future. Indeed, most of them are long term projects. During this period of crisis, when everyone was confined, some brains turned a lot and created activities that were beneficial both during the crisis and for the period after it. As for others, they took this time to learn and acquire a little more knowledge.
How did you feel during the residency ? And at the end of it ?
I was really 90% satisfied with the results I got after the residency. It was a moment of adventure, discovery, creation, and work. The project that I realized had been close to my heart for a while and even more so when I found myself confined. I saw how the population of Goma was fighting against the virus and the needs of life. Deep down, I was thinking that the whole world should know about it. I wanted to praise the courage of these brave people and to change the image that the outside world has of the Congo and Africa in general.
I learned a lot from the story of each character I worked on. The way I see the world is not the same after this residency. I hope that each person who will be able to read this book will also notice a change in his or her life.
Brave du Kivu in order to praise the bravery of the people of Kivu.
