Bassam is a seaside town near Abidjan. The “Quartier France” neighborhood is rich in history, artisans, and architecture. We chose this inspiring location, together with photographer Kimberly Hawmmond, as the setting for a photo shoot featuring the artist Lafalaise Dion. Having access to former colonial sites such as the 1909 trading post and the former building of the Compagnie Française de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (CFAO) gave me the opportunity to learn a little more about my country’s history and to reconnect with these places through an artistic lens, while remaining mindful of the past.  
It’s important to note that Bassam was the first colonial capital of Côte d’Ivoire until 1899, and that December 24, 1949, marks a pivotal moment in the country’s anti-colonial struggle with “the Women’s March.” 

Photos by Kimberly Hawmmond.