South African born photographer Koto Bolofo began a career in photography after turbulent beginnings. A political refugee born in Lesotho in 1959, his family was forced to flee the oppression of the apartheid political system in 1963. From humble beginnings in London the self-taught photographer honed his craft and was recognised for his ability to present honest beauty and stunning unexpected compositions. His lack of formal training giving him fresh perspective and an ability to create his own narrative. His thoughtful and empathetic approach bringing new vision through his lens. Bolofo naturally crosses the genres of photography, delving into photo journalism, documentary, fashion, art and advertising. His imagery and world view gives a sense of timelessness.
After the publication of his first book SIBUSISO MBHELE AND HIS FISH HELICOPTER in 2002, a cinematic look at the work of a visionary artist outcast by his own people, he went on to publish many more. His interest in capturing and documenting future histories and icons include amongst others his book VENUS, his at times whimsical capturing of the tennis star Venus Williams, her beauty and physical strength seen through the lens of an artist. One of the first women of colour to rise to the top in the most conservative of sports. For his epic LA MAISON, Bolofo was granted unrivalled access to the notoriously private luxury house, Hermès. Documented over eight years, the resulting publication is a voyeuristic 11-volume look behind the closed doors of this Parisian house. For posterity beautifully capturing its many now defunct small artisan workshops. Unveiling the secret world behind this timeless brand. His book SNOWDON follows the life and work of this very private man, gaining access to his home and extraordinary archive of royalty and celebrity, the book honours his lifetime achievement. In ROLLS-ROYCE he gets under the skin of this exclusive brand and the people behind these exceptional motor cars. ACADEMIE EQUESTRE VERSAILLES gives a candid look behind the beauty, dedication and pain that goes in to the sheer brilliance of this incredible school of equestrian mastery. In his book THE PRISON, Bolofo documents the horrors and inhumanity of the incarceration of Nelson Mandela and the political prisoners of Robben Island, the impact on Bolofo keenly felt, forced as a child to leave South Africa, his own father fearing for the safety of his family, accused of political crime, the crime of teaching history. Bolofo’s next book SAY CHEESE is due for publication June 2022.
Bolofo’s advertising work spans a host of luxury brands including Louis Vuitton, Hermes, Dior, Chanel, Dom Perignon, Jaeger LeCoultre, Loewe… His editorials have a appeared in fashion and art publications such as Italian Vogue, Numero, L’Uomo Vogue, Sunday Times, Vanity Fair, Life Magazine, Interview Magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, Elle, and GQ.
Bolofo now lives in France.