Did you get into photography when you were growing up in Brazil or was it something you picked up after moving to London?

Creativity has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a family of musicians ignited a spark in me to create. I would transform plastic bottles into flowers and sculptures and I began drawing and painting at a young age. My background is as a painter, but when I moved from Brazil to England, I connected with my true self, as I didn’t have the family references and religious dogmas to blur my consciousness. Photography became a vital tool for self-expression and a means of exploring my identity within the community. My practice revolves around self-discovery and understanding myself as a queer person from South America.

What do you see as the defining moment from your journey as a photographer so far?

The defining moment in my photography journey was realizing that I am an artist first, and I use photography as a tool of self-discovery. It allowed me to explore the unseen aspects of my life. Coming from a very religious background, I initially had limited access to the LGBTQ+ community. As I began to understand my sexuality and identity, everything started to come together for me.

What’s the story behind your winning image? How did it all come together?

The winning image emerged from a spontaneous process. We didn’t have a set plan; I prefer to keep things open for magic to happen. All my work takes place in my living room, where I cook breakfast, prepare coffee, and then move to my studio. It was a beautiful day in southeast London when I photographed Rihanna, the model, wearing a stunning garment designed by Christopher. The image captures an incredibly special moment in my career.

Can you talk a bit about your “Queer Immigrants” series? Being an ongoing project, what’s next for it?

The “Queer Immigrants” series began long before I recognized it. I started photographing people I admired in cafés, clubs, and on the streets, noticing the beauty and diversity around me. Many individuals I encountered were migrants, prompting my curiosity about the queer foreign community in London. I captured images in various settings—cemeteries, living rooms, and at events like pride marches. The project took shape as I began cutting and collaging photos with historical pieces. Calling it an ongoing project means there’s no end until we achieve safety and belonging for all. Now living back in South America, I aim to tell different stories and reconnect with my heritage while exploring the experiences of queer individuals, learning from them along the way.

Your work is described as embracing rebellion as a means of reclaiming identity. How do you see photography as an act of rebellion?

I think for most of us, living our true self, it’s already an act of rebellion. And being an artist and talking about those issues, it’s an act of rebellion. And overall, I think existing in a world where we cannot be ourselves and love who we want to love without the fear of death threats, going to jail, family abandoning you, all those traumatic experiences… choosing love is an act of rebellion.

Who are some of the artists making work that excites you right now?

Jesse Glazzard. Please check out his work, it’s stunning.

Can you describe a photo that you currently have somewhere in your home? What is it, who took it, and what do you like about it?

I have a cherished photograph of my mom and me on my fifth birthday in Rio de Janeiro. In the picture, my mom is wearing a white shirt and black trousers while I’m behind my birthday cake, ready to serve her the first slice. The backdrop features blue balloons hanging by a window, and both of us are smiling warmly at each other. This image encapsulates my childhood and my journey of reconnecting with my heritage after living in London. I also surround myself with photos of my siblings and friends to foster a sense of belonging, as I’ve often felt like an immigrant in my own country.

What’s the last thing that you read, listened to, or watched that truly blew your mind?

Book: Queer Intentions by Amelia Abraham
Music: Caju by Liniker
Documentary: A Paixão de JL

What’s the best piece of advice anyone ever gave you?

The best advice I received was to pursue what genuinely inspires me, to create for myself and trust my instincts, while being patient as I seek inspiration.

What’s one thing you’d like to accomplish in the next year or so?

I’ve returned to my roots in Rio de Janeiro to develop a new project, and I’m excited about sharing and showcasing my work next year. That’s my current focus, and I can’t wait to see where it leads.

What about one thing you’d like to accomplish in your lifetime?

I aspire to remain conscious and healthy, making thoughtful decisions that reflect love and care towards my life. I want to ensure that every choice—be it a friendship, move, or environment—serves as an act of love, enabling me to create meaningful artwork that resonates in the world.

Asafe Ghalib’s Website

Asafe Ghalib on Instagram