Lagos Photo — No Judgement: Africa Under the Prism

The inaugural edition of Lagos Photo (2010–2011) marked the 50th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence under the theme No Judgement: Africa Under the Prism. Conceived as a platform for diverse visual perspectives, the festival brought together international photographers to reflect on contemporary African realities beyond stereotypes and preconceived narratives.

Among the participating artists was Héctor Mediavilla, who presented his project A Return Journey Dream: The Congolese S.A.P.E.

The Congolese S.A.P.E.

In this photographic series, Mediavilla documents the world of the Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes (S.A.P.E.), a movement rooted in the Republic of Congo where elegance becomes a powerful form of self-expression.

Through carefully observed portraits and scenes, the work explores the social and psychological dimensions of the sapeurs, challenging Western perceptions of Africa. Style, in this context, becomes more than appearance—it is a statement of identity, dignity, and resistance.

Context

Presented as part of a broader international group exhibition, the project contributed to the festival’s aim of offering nuanced and multifaceted views of the African continent. Following its presentation in Lagos, the work continued its trajectory in other institutions, including Casa África.