About Yannis Davy Guibinga

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BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Yannis Davy Guibinga, a young and globally acclaimed photographer from Libreville, Gabon, has emerged as a leading voice in contemporary photography. Growing up in this Central African coastal city, his ethnic identity was shaped by the interplay of rich traditions and modern influences. This pulsing tension now fuels his expressive work, with his portrait photography capturing the vibrant spirit of a new generation of Africans who boldly and unapologetically celebrate the diversity of their identities and cultures. 

Guibinga's work is distinguished by its dynamic signature, marked by an energetic fusion of movement, color, and form. In his compositions, contrasts blend seamlessly, creating a fluid aesthetic that balances emotional depth with a captivating visual appeal.

His photographs have been featured in prestigious exhibitions such as Photo London and Art Basel and are highly sought after by international brands like Apple and Google. Guibinga's images have adorned the covers across the globe, ranging from Chance the Rapper’s album cover to esteemed art publications like Aesthetica Magazine.

The unmatched appeal of his work flows from the seamless fusion of his sharp visual sensibility and his narrative depth. Drawing inspiration from the aesthetic codes of Renaissance paintings and the structural compositions of traditional African sculptures, Tales of the First Sunrise reimagines the origins of our world. Based on creation myths from various religions, the story depicts the first sunrise as it is being witnessed by both Gods and Humans. Through a supernatural and almost otherworldly lens, it weaves a narrative that speaks to the shared essence of human existence.

Guibinga's work reflects a metaphorical new beginning. In vibrant neon hues, it shines a light on the pride, courage, sensuality, and passion that define African culture. His pieces are infused with passion and movement – both physical and political – boldly crafting new stories from ancient traditions. Yannis Guibinga’s art is a tribute to young Africans who proudly embrace where they come from while exploring new paths into the future – allowing their roots fully blossom.

Exhibitions

Solo Exhibitions

2022	“Perspectives from Within: Our cultures through fashion” The Cube Project. San Antonio, Texas
2021	“Data Thieves: What Our Archives Tell Us” Never Apart Gallery. Montréal, Canada
2018	“Je Suis Montréal” Eastern Bloc. Montréal, Canada
2017	"Black Portraiture - Decolonized" Odyssey. Moscow, Russia.

Group Exhibitions

2022	“Black History Month Celebration” Galerie XII, Los Angeles, United States
	Photo London Art Fair, Somerset House, London, United Kingdom
	Doyle Wham x ME London, ME London Hotels. London, United Kingdom
	Art Basel Unlimited, Basel, Switzerland
	Fotografiska: The Museum of Photography in Stockholm, Sweden
	“The Highs & The Lows” DuSable Museum of Black History. Chicago, United States
2021	“The New Black Vanguard” M7 Museum. Doha, Qatar
	“Les Rencontres D’Arles: The New Black Vanguard”, Arles, France
	“14 Cavendish x Doyle Wham”, 14 Cavendish, London, United Kingdom
	Photo London Art Fair, Somerset House, London, United Kingdom
2020	“photoSCHWEIZ”, Zürich, Switzerland
	“I Know Why The Caged Bird Sing” Fonderie Darling, Montréal, Canada
	“The New Black Vanguard” Bunjil Place, Victoria, Australia
	“PORT-8” ECAD London
	“Solidarity” Sohn Fine Art, Lennox, Mssachusetts
	“Welcome Home vol. II” MACAAL. Marrakech, Morocco
2019	The New Black Vanguard: Photography between Art and Fashion” Aperture Gallery, New York
	“Boy Wives & Female Husbands” M5, Musée McCord, Montréal
	“AKAA Art Fair” Carreau du Temple. Paris, France
2018	“PICHA & COLOURS” Libreville, Gabon
	“Parcours Photo: Sherbrooke” Sherbrooke, Canada
	“Exhibition Finale” Collège Marsan. Montréal, Canada
2017	"UTMSU's Black History Month Art Show" UTM. Mississauga, Canada
	"The Platform" UTM. Mississauga, Canada
2016	"We Are Africa" Capetown Soccer Stadium. Capetown, South Africa
	"The Sawubona Project" Daniels Spectrum. Toronto, Canada
	"Moadiga x Afro-fusion" Paris, France
	"Afro Frontal Exhibition" White Cloud Gallery. Washington D.C
	"African Lens: Exhibition" Taj Hotel. Capetown, South Africa
	"Panorama" Get Arena, Leki. Lagos, Nigeria