A Group Exhibition with Tabi Boney, Hiba Alyawer, & Ramona Militaru

Gallery Space at Gallery Place is a 12,760 square foot Community Amenity Retail Complex with Cultural Arts & Entertainment Experiences anchored by Creative, Strategic Placemaking in the Heart of Chinatown, Downtown, DC.

In partnership with local curators Get Flee Marketplace & Neighbors DC, we’re able to fill the once thriving Urban Outfitters space with rotating vendors, makers, and small shop entrepreneurs of all genres. The inagural installation includes Tabi Boney, Hiba Alyawer, & Ramona Militaru.

Gallery Space at Gallery Place presents a tangible example of ideas and concepts shared over the past few months, executed in real time, with the hopes of replicating this scope of work, city wide.

L' Amour D’ Afrique: —"The Love of Africa” by Tabi Boney

A celebration of Africa's rich culture, beauty, and the undeniable commonalities that bind its people, no matter where they reside. Through the lens of photographer Tabi Bonney, born in Togo, West Africa, this exhibit captures the essence of the continent he deeply cherishes. Tabi's love for Africa shines through in each portrait, revealing the resilience, creativity, and undeniable beauty of the people he encountered on his travels through Ethiopia, Senegal, and Togo.

Tabi's work reflects not just physical beauty but also the strength and ingenuity of African communities. As Tabi himself explains:

"I shot these portraits from a beauty and fashion aspect. I saw richness and ingenuity, whereas others may have seen something else. I saw that our people—no matter what circumstances, social status, or where we are in the world—have the ability to make the most out of even a little."

Ethiopia: The Surma People of the Omo Valley

In the first series, Tabi highlights the majestic Surma people, living in the Omo Valley in southern Ethiopia. Known for their intricate body art, scarification, and elaborate lip discs, the Suri tribe uses these adornments to signify beauty and status. Though semi-nomadic and facing challenges from climate change and modernization, their spirit remains unbroken. Tabi's portraits convey the extraordinary strength and vibrancy of a community that may soon be lost to time.

Senegal: The Surfers of Dakar

The second series transports us to the vibrant surf culture of Dakar, Senegal. Along this stunning coastline, surfing has become a symbol of hope and tradition. Tabi captures the passion and determination of Senegal's surfers, a new generation pushing the boundaries of the sport while staying rooted in their heritage. In these images, the ocean becomes a canvas for freedom, resilience, and connection.

Togo: The Horsemen of Sokodé

Finally, Tabi returns to his birthplace, Togo, to capture the proud horsemen of Sokodé. Here, horses symbolize power, prestige, and tradition. Through his lens, Tabi immortalizes the strength and grace of both horse and rider, a tribute to Togo's rich equestrian history. His portraits reveal a deep admiration for the beauty and pride of his homeland.

L' Amour D’ Afrique: is not just a collection of images, but a love letter to Africa—a reminder that beauty, strength, and unity exist across borders and within the soul of every African.