‘Like a phoenix rising from its ashes’: queer Muslim life in France – in pictures
Photographer Camille Farrah Lenain’s photo book 'Made of Smokeless Fire' explores queer Muslim life in France, inspired by grief for her gay uncle Farid.
French photographer Camille Farrah Lenain has released a new photo book, 'Made of Smokeless Fire,' dedicated to the memory of her uncle Farid, who was gay. His death left Lenain with many unanswered questions. 'He left without answering the questions I had for him,' she says.
The book offers a tender and sensitive look into the lives of queer Muslims in France. Lenain uses photography as a means to explore the intersections of identity, faith, and sexuality. The title, 'Made of Smokeless Fire,' draws from Islamic traditions that describe humans as created from clay and jinn from smokeless fire.
The photographs depict individuals navigating between religious and cultural traditions and their sexual identities. Lenain seeks to capture their everyday lives, joys, and challenges while honoring her uncle's memory. The work is 'like a phoenix rising from its ashes,' symbolizing hope and rebirth.
