Travel photography has to be one of the most exciting professions there is. The road to it was not without challenges for Lola and for her it was the integrity of her work that made her establish her place on the map. By relying on her visual voice, continuously refining her skills and exposing her work, Lola Akinmade has created a unique visual language where the viewer is invited to reflect on themes that bring us closer to each other. What is classified as cultural differences is transformed through Lola's lens into human similarities.
'My work is about creating cultural bonds. If we see each other's similarities, instead of focusing on what separates us, we will have more understanding of each other and isolate each other less. We will recognize ourselves in each other and see our common humanity. In photography I have the opportunity to look my subjects in the eyes, most portrait photographers recognize this; there is a moment where you see someone open up and suddenly a bond is created between you. The only thing that exists is the truth and it comes out when the person feels seen. That's what it's about for me, to be able to say: 'I see you'. That's the purpose of my work, my life's mission in fact.'
During her career, Lola has traveled to over 70 countries and her photos have been published in, among others, National Geographic, New York Times, The Sunday Times, The Guardian, BBC, Lonely Planet and Forbes.
She describes her expression as dynamic and hopeful. A past as an artist where she mostly painted with oils is recalled in the way Lola composes and processes her images. The classic pigments are often present in her visual works.
