Festival in the Desert: A Statement on Music, Not on Africa

This photograph of guitarist Habib Koite at the site of the Festival in the Desert may at first appear to resemble some images that poorly depict Africa (such as Jay-Z’s Rocawear campaign). However, at closer look, it becomes apparent that the photograph is not just another image focused on a modern-day musician that reduces Africa to a backdrop of vast space. The picture, taken by Jonas Karlsson, makes a statement about much more than just the artist—it makes an argument about the role of music in the remote location of Essakane in Mali, at a festival that brings together people from all over the world to enjoy the best West African music. The photo’s purpose is not to make a statement about the continent of Africa, but to inform the viewer that music at the Festival in the Desert (and possibly in general) is a unifying element that breaks down cultural barriers.

One of the first reactions that the viewer may have to this image is that the central figure (Habib Koite) and his guitar seem out of context with the rest of the photo. The photographer strategically included a number of modern elements to juxtapose the vast, simple background. The only two distinguishable figures in the photograph are Koite and the Tuareg on the camel, walking casually in the background. The contrast between these two people alone is clear—Koite’s modern dress of sunglasses, a necklace, a watch, and clean sneakers and clothing is in complete contrast to the Tuareg’s figure which appears to be wrapped in layers of clothing, riding on a camel. The use of color in the image also depicts the contrast between the musician and the landscape of the festival—while Koite wears all black, the backdrop consists of all neutral colors.

The image informs the viewer of the extreme differences between the musician and the environment in Essakane. However, the central object of the image—the guitar—breaks down the differences in clothing, lifestyle and culture and unifies the diverse group of people who come to enjoy the festival.

The electric guitar is the center of the image both physically and metaphorically. The golden color of the instrument makes it stand out against the neutral background of the sand, tents and sky, and all-black clothing of the musician. Clearly, this what the photographer wants the viewer to concentrate on. By placing such great emphasis on the instrument, the image argues that music is the element that unifies these two very different worlds (exemplified in the contrast between Koite and the Tuareg and Essakane).

The mood of the photo is created by the use of light and warm colors. The sun shining on the musician and the tents delivers a sense of joy and happiness. By positioning Koite with his head toward the sky, also helps create a sense of enjoyment—the happiness brought on by playing the guitar and hearing the music. The use of pale, almost-white colors for the clear sky brings peace, tranquility, and grace to the photograph. The vast, remote background of sand and the lack of wind and movement in the photograph (though the article noted the strong winds at the Festival) show that the photographer wanted to capture a sense of quietness and simplicity—which Karlsson attributes all to the presence of music.