Rising photographer Markn shares a divine editorial on Document Journal, posted in May 2020, making it part of the Spring 2020 issue. The London-born and based photographer is posting some of the images on his Instagram. It was Markn’s last shoot before lockdown, and it is sublime poetry that leaves us weeping in this global moment. Markn describes it as “A shoot conceived in one world and born into another.⁣⁣.” His capacity for portraying human connection and beauty is staggering, imo.

Alice Lefons , frequently associated with Document Journal, styles the shoot with hair by Sarah Jo Palmer and makeup by Rebecca Wordingham.

The psychological and emotional spirit of the new editorial appears to connect to Markn’s trip to Ghana with stylist Rasharn Agyemang posted on September 20, 2019. The narrative of this trip is shared on Document Journal.

Agyemang explains: “One of my main goals was to showcase the country in a different light; to show off the diversity and creativity of the country as it hasn’t previously been shown under the neo-colonial or western gaze. I felt myself reconnecting to a land and people that I knew and loved.

We visited several places and tried to capture fragments of the country’s unique vibrancy and energy. We explored the markets, which sent our senses into overdrive with all the aromas, textures, colors, and noises that surrounded us. At Ghana’s beaches, although technically areas of outstanding natural beauty, we learned of their sadder, darker side. It was this historic cape where slaves were once captured, sold, and transported overseas.

I was in awe of the creativity and passion of the people, my people. I felt an overwhelming sense of history wherever we went. This experience, mixed with my own personal ties and pride in my birthplace, has left me eager to go back. We saw the country’s raw and natural beauty, felt its sense of strength, pride, and independence, and its unique place within Africa. Ghana is a huge part of my identity, and I’m delighted to share this vision of my Ghana, my place of birth, with the world.”

It will require more effort on our part to piece together all the particulars of this new shoot ‘Family”, including the models. The images frankly require no explanation from me — an American — in this moment. I know this monumental vision was born in Britain, but it’s the most beautiful raised fist to Donald Trump’s white nationalism that I’ve seen since this human nightmare of his presidency defined our lives. Thank you so much to all of these enormously talented creatives. We all need these visionary lifeboats, and I am so grateful for your efforts. ~ Anne (sobbing)