Photographer Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou took portraits of west African bodybuilders.
Photographer Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou took portraits of west African bodybuilders.
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery
In each picture, the strength of the musclemen is contrasted with the delicacy of the flowers they hold.
Benin's bodybuilders —
In each picture, the strength of the musclemen is contrasted with the delicacy of the flowers they hold.
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery
The boldness of the fabric colors creates a vibrant twist on conventional strongman photographs.
Benin's bodybuilders —
The boldness of the fabric colors creates a vibrant twist on conventional strongman photographs.
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery
Bodybuilders pose with flowers against a colorful backdrop.
Benin's bodybuilders —
Bodybuilders pose with flowers against a colorful backdrop.
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery
The juxtaposition of the colors is "deliberate" says Bell.
Benin's bodybuilders —
The juxtaposition of the colors is "deliberate" says Bell.
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery
Leonce is part of a generation experiencing rapid change and his photographs capture this energy and unfettered zest for life.
Benin's bodybuilders —
Leonce is part of a generation experiencing rapid change and his photographs capture this energy and unfettered zest for life.
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery
Leonce says, "Benin is all about color -- Porto Novo is like a visual assault."
Benin's bodybuilders —
Leonce says, "Benin is all about color -- Porto Novo is like a visual assault."
Leonce Raphael Agbodjelou/Jack Bell Gallery