Album Architectures - Abidjan

Album Architectures, Abidjan is a photography book that showcases the architectural diversity of Abidjan, reflecting a tropical modernism. It is the result of an encounter between architect Issa Diabaté and photographer François-Xavier Gbré, who aim to highlight the undervalued architectural landscapes of cities in perpetual urban change.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 122 pages
Publication date: 28 November 2022
Publisher: Caryatide

This captivating photography book delves into the vibrant world of architecture, showcasing a unique perspective on buildings in Abidjan, a city known for its tropical modernism. Through the lens of photographer François-Xavier Gbré and architect Issa Diabaté, the book offers a captivating visual exploration of the city's architectural landscape.

Issa Diabaté, an architect who plays a pivotal role in shaping the architectural future of Abidjan, a city that constantly reinvents itself, is the driving force behind this photographic journey. François-Xavier Gbré, on the other hand, is a photographer who has made architecture his preferred medium for capturing the nuanced history of places. By viewing architectures as the silent traces of social and political changes within a country, Gbré has dedicated himself to unveiling the hidden stories of places, particularly in the Ivory Coast.

The purpose of this book, and the broader Album Architectures collection, is to provoke thought and debate about the concept of contemporary heritage. It seeks to highlight and celebrate the rich and singular architectural landscapes of cities that are in constant flux, often overlooked or ignored. By valorizing these architectural treasures, the book aims to shed light on the importance of preserving and appreciating the diverse heritage of our world.

The book showcases a diverse range of buildings in Abidjan that embody the essence of tropical modernism. From sleek and contemporary structures to intricate and colorful designs, each building tells a story of its own. Through Gbré's skillful photography and Diabaté's insightful commentary, the book provides a deeper understanding of the architectural nuances and cultural significance of these buildings.

One of the key themes of the book is the interplay between architecture and society. Diabaté discusses how architecture can reflect and shape the social and cultural dynamics of a city, and how it can contribute to the identity and character of a place. Gbré, in turn, highlights the role of architecture in preserving and celebrating the history and heritage of a country, particularly in the context of urban development and change.

The book also explores the concept of sustainability and eco-friendliness in architecture. Diabaté discusses the use of local materials and traditional building techniques to create sustainable and environmentally friendly buildings, and how these designs can contribute to the well-being of both the built environment and the community. Gbré, through his photographs, showcases the beauty and functionality of these sustainable buildings, highlighting their role in promoting a greener and more sustainable future.

In addition to its visual appeal, the book also offers valuable insights into the architectural process and the collaborative nature of design. Diabaté shares his experiences and perspectives as an architect, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process and the challenges that arise during the construction of buildings. Gbré, as a photographer, collaborates closely with Diabaté to capture the essence of each building and to convey the architectural vision to the reader.

Overall, "Album Architectures, Abidjan" is a captivating and thought-provoking exploration of the intersection of architecture, society
society, and heritage. Through the lens of photographer François-Xavier Gbré and architect Issa Diabaté, the book offers a unique perspective on the vibrant architectural landscape of Abidjan, highlighting the rich and diverse heritage of this city. It encourages readers to appreciate the beauty and significance of architecture and to consider its role in shaping the future of our world.

Weight: 674g
Dimension: 248 x 324 x 12 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9782493283115