In Her Element

Gayle's describes her genre as a celebration of black womanhood as she draws inspiration from the women around her. This project is an exploration of the elements through the eyes of a black woman. 

Were worked with a number of women to produce this series. Sally Istyleke styled the women who Were photographed and Tasha Matu, who in addition to modeling, worked as a makeup artist on set. The set itself was designed by Jerusha.

Stephaniah Lago fiercely embodies the element of fire in this image.

At the same time, Were sees her work as a platform she can use to uplift marginalised groups such as the LGBTQIA+ community. Her passion for women's and LGBTQIA+ rights is a strong focus of her work.

In this image Tasha Matu effortlessly represents the element of water.

For Were, shifting the perspective of her home country, the LGBTQIA+ community and women remains the essence of her purpose as a visual artist and activist.

In this work, Lizzy Nyajuok boldly takes on the essence of Earth itself.