Liberian photographer captures community moments through the mat

In Accra, Ghana, Cianeh Kpukuyou, a self-taught photographer from Ivory Coast, creates a series that revolves around the significance of everyday objects in shaping community identity and relationships. One such object is the plastic straw mat, commonly used across West Africa, symbolizing unity and the daily lives of diverse groups. This mat holds cultural importance as it is often used for various social activities, including praying, eating, and resting, thus fostering shared experiences among individuals from different backgrounds. Kpukuyou’s work draws inspiration from her childhood memories in Liberia, particularly the moments spent with her grandmother on a similar mat. These personal experiences laid the groundwork for her series, titled Backyard Kids, which seeks to evoke nostalgia and a sense of belonging. In her photographs, Kpukuyou carefully selects models that reflect the diversity of West African cultures, forging connections among people who share the mat, and by extension, their lives. The backdrop of her photographic journey highlights not just the mat’s practical use but also the emotional and communal aspects it represents. Kpukuyou illustrates how such objects can bridge cultural gaps, emphasizing that collaboration and unity lead to meaningful connections among individuals. By showcasing models from diverse West African countries, the photographs symbolize a collective identity, underscoring the idea that shared spaces promote understanding and camaraderie. Through this lens, Kpukuyou aims to shine a light on the stories and bonds formed around these mat-based gatherings, creating a visual narrative about belonging and the essential role of community in everyday life. Her work invites viewers to reflect on their connections to similar objects in their lives and how these items foster togetherness amid cultural diversity.