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Laetitia Ky is an artist, activist, and entrepreneur whose work centres on themes of self-love, cultural identity, and empowerment. Known for her innovative approach to art, she uses her platform to explore the beauty and cultural significance of Black hair, often challenging societal norms and promoting positive self-image. Through her art, especially her hair sculptures, Laetitia encourages individuals to embrace their heritage and personal identity. She is also involved in fashion, cinema and literature. Through words and images her first book LOVE AND JUSTICE explores her point of view as an activist for equality in Côte d’Ivoire.

At KYOTOGRAPHIE 2025 Ky will present at ASPHODEL some of her most iconic past works and in Demachi Masugata Shopping Arcade new self-portraits with unique hairstyles that embody her identity. These works were produced during Laeticia’s stay in Kyoto for the KYOTOGRAPHIE African Artist Residency in Winter 2024.

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DELTA is KYOTOGRAPHIE’s permanent exhibition space, it opened in autumn 2020 in Demachi Masugata Shopping Arcade in Kyoto. DELTA’s name is inspired by one of Kyoto most iconic landscapes, locally referred to as the 'Kamogawa Delta’, the confluence of the Kamogawa and Takanogawa rivers. DELTA’s building is located a short stroll from the rivers edge. The logo references a triangle formed by two boxes (masu Japanese for “box” or “container,” also a part of the shopping arcade’s name.) The goal of this project space is to propagate new ideas that arise from the convergence of opposites: East and West, tradition and innovation, mainstream and underground, local and global, etc. The first floor houses a café and a gallery, this space is home to the KYOTOGRAPHIE Academie, an ongoing educational and event program, as well the exhibition space pursuing multifaceted projects with Japanese and international artists, curators, and cultural and educational institutions. The second floor will contain DELTA STAY. In this gallery style accommodation guests can enjoy a relaxing moment in unique Kyoto style, surrounded by Japanese Photography all while in the midst of the vibrant historic shopping district. 

Laetitia Ky "A Kyoto Hair-Itage"

Artists

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