Thierno Sy is a Senegalese photographer and visual artist based in Dakar, Senegal. He is best known for his work exploring the African diaspora and its relationship to identity, culture, and history.
Sy was born in Dakar in 1988 and grew up surrounded by the vibrant colors of his hometown. He developed an early interest in photography, which he pursued while studying at the University of Dakar. After graduating with a degree in photography, Sy began working as a freelance photographer for various publications and organizations.
Sy's work has been featured in numerous exhibitions around the world, including at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. His photographs have also been published in magazines such as National Geographic, The New Yorker, and TIME Magazine.
In addition to his photographic work, Sy has also created several short films that explore themes of identity and belonging. His films have been screened at festivals such as Cannes Film Festival and Toronto International Film Festival.
Sy's work has earned him numerous awards including the Prix Pictet Award for Photography (2020) and the Prix de la Photographie Paris (2018). He is also a member of Magnum Photos since 2020.
Through his artistry, Sy seeks to challenge traditional notions of identity while celebrating African culture and heritage. His work continues to inspire viewers around the world with its powerful message of hope and resilience.