ABOUT THE EXHIBIT

In December 2012, FashionAFRICANA produced and presented GLAMAZONIA, a photography exhibition paying tribute to African beauty and hairstyles by renowned Paris-based photographer Mario Epanya. In this exhibition, Epanya celebrates African ancestry and customs by highlighting his

interpretation of the aesthetics and shapes used by African ancestors for ceremonial and special occasion dress. This glorious showcase of Beauty features over 30 images of Black women from contemporary full color photography to vintage black-and-white images, celebrating the beauty and diversity

of the Diaspora. The exhibition also featured African-inspired sculptural work by renowned artists Thaddeus Mosley and Vanessa German, and garments by FashionAFRICANA.

ABOUT THE ARTIST

Mario Epanya is a Paris based commercial beauty and fashion photographer whose work focuses on diversity in fashion and portraiture. 

Born in Cameroon, Epanya started his career as a self-taught hair and makeup artist in 1996. In 2000 he moved to France where he studied and became a professional makeup artist working for the likes of Dessange Paris, and as a hairdresser and assistant for art agencies through which he worked for several high fashion brands. 

In 2007 Epanya made the transition to photography and set up his studio, Studioepanya. He began creating his iconic images that are shaping the modern face of African beauty, fashion and style. In 2010 Epanya garnered widespread attention for his creation of fictional Vogue Africa covers celebrating black beauty. The buzz drew attention to the need for greater diversity in the global fashion and beauty industries. Following this, Epanya created an

online magazine, Winkler, and held his first photography exhibition, Glamazonia, a series of black and white images dedicated to black beauty, which travelled the world. 

Epanya lives and works in Paris.