feature: london- based stylist ibrahim kamara is fueling a fashion revolution pushing boundaries of race,gender, and fashion in latest series ‘2026’

The youth is changing the world.
Slowly and steadily, but surely overall. It takes great courage to reverse the stereotypical notions of what is ‘proper’ and ‘normal’ in a society so stuck in its ways- and for fashion stylist Ibrahim (IB) Kamara, the goal was clear. Collaborating with South African photographer Kristin Lee-Moolman, the Sierra Leone-born visionary is breaking boundaries left and right with his enticing new series ‘2026‘.

As they meld the concepts of gender and time, they become one-in their eyes: no longer are we held responsible for the standards in our way, we as one are to break free and f$*k the system. Placing young men in dresses, standing loud and proud, the ‘norm’ becomes irrelevant, while the beauty and dominance of the images shape a new era of acceptability and style.

In her own words: “I’m not making work that’s gonna change our political system or contest anything, it’s more a celebration of people and a utopian approach to the future” – Kristin-Lee Moolman

Using their art to empower and reinstate, Moolman and Kamara’s 2026 challenges the ‘heteronormative’ outlook on self-expression- utilizing the fashion world as a tool for communication and influence. Thanks to their creation, get used to expecting the unexpected. Currently on display at London’s Somerset House (through August 29, 2016) check out the rebellious series below.

By Cree B. McClellan, AFROPUNK contributor