JUMP
Cotonou, Benin, 2019
 
Giclée print on Hahnemühle FineArt Pearl paper.
Size 30x20 cm without white border..

Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, is undergoing a major transformation, and the Fidjrossè-Togbin neighborhood is quickly positioning itself as one of the region’s emerging tourist gems. Thanks to Phase B of the Asphaltage project, the government of President Patrice Talon is transforming this area into a hub of tourist appeal, with modern infrastructure and a clear vision for sustainable and inclusive development.

Located along the Atlantic coast, this strategic region benefits from an ambitious plan that combines infrastructure improvements, beach enhancements, and the creation of tourist facilities. This project, which is reshaping the urban landscape of Fidjrossè-Togbin, reflects the government’s determination to make Benin an unmissable destination for both regional and international tourism.
 
Carla Kogelman is a visual storyteller. In addition to winning the World Press Photo twice (2014 – 1st prize portraits observed and 2018 – 1st prize long term project), Carla has been nominated 16 times for the Zilveren Camera in various categories. In addition to her fascination with backstage subjects in theater, art, culture, and sports, she focuses her lens primarily on ordinary people. For years, she has been fascinated and inspired by multicultural society. Leading themes in her work are resilience, commitment, and emotion. Often, several photos form a group. Sometimes there is a chronological series. There is always a narrative. She herself is conspicuously absent from the photo. The subject is unaware of her presence. A photo of hers is not a snapshot but the result of intensive contact, interaction, and preliminary research. The projects arise from thorough preparation at home, careful study of literature and the internet, and encounters on location. They often come about through a confluence of circumstances. In this way, they grow into something beautiful, and I can bring coherence to them and create series. The result is often cinematic, in a recognizable universal visual language. Photography is a way to connect with communities and uncover the untold stories of a place.
 
Website
Instagram