2026 · Lagos, Nigeria
The Black Frame
A Shade Ethical Visual Masterclass
- 9
- Shade Storytellers
- 6
- Days in Lagos
- 1
- Exhibition
The Programme
The Black Frame is a six day intensive masterclass that trained nine early to mid career women photographers in Lagos in ethical visual documentation and dignity centred storytelling. This exhibition is the record of what they made and of the women, and the seeing, behind every frame.
Day one at the Centre for Contemporary Art, Lagos.
The Philosophy
“Photography is not neutral. It can either reinforce erasure or restore dignity.”
From the Curator
“This is not a photography exhibition. Instead, it is an argument made by nine women who say that dark skin deserves to be seen properly.”
Olabanke Oyinkansola Goriola · Founder and Lead Curator, The Black Frame
The Cohort
9 women, one week, a changed way of seeing
Every Shade Storyteller of the 2026 edition. Each leaves certified by The Shade Institute.
01/09 Storytellers
- 01
Faith Idowu
Unsung Heroes
- 02
Afowowe Kehinde Favour
The Black Hustle
- 03
Laura Emuerhime Ucheaga
As She Is
- 04
John Amaraa
Skin in the Civil Service
- 05
Faith Ifeoma Osemeka
Uncovered
- 06
Joy Ude
SEEN: The Shade of Belonging
- 07
Chioma Jimoh
He Leads Without a Horn
- 08
Ololade Ayuba
Solace
- 09
Akinrole Waliyat Damilola
Beyond the Cut
The Film
Six days, in motion
A short documentary following the cohort from the first introductions, through fieldwork and the portfolio review, to the opening of the exhibition at CCA Lagos.
Support the Work
Help the next cohort be seen
Your gift supports The Shade Initiative's work training women photographers in ethical visual documentation and restoring dignity to the frame.