In the bustling cityscape of Calgary, Alberta, amidst the towering skyscrapers and the majestic Rocky Mountains on the horizon, Lola Falana of Knude by FalanaFoto found her muse. Born and raised with a vibrant multicultural tapestry, in Canada, Falana feels a deep connection to the diverse community and the spirit of inclusivity in the country.
"In Calgary," Falana reflected, her voice tinged with pride, "we celebrate diversity in all its forms. It's a city where people from all walks of life come together to create something beautiful."
"In the heart of the city, I see women dedicating themselves tirelessly to the needs and expectations of others," she continued. "But every woman deserves to feel empowered and confident and celebrate in her skin."
Inspired by the rich tapestry of cultures that coexist within the city, Falana set out to capture the essence of Calgary's women – bold, resilient, and unapologetically themselves. "Every woman in Calgary has a story to tell," Falana mused, "and it's my mission to help them share it with the world."
"As the pendulum swings towards feminine energy and empowerment," Falana explained, "women in Calgary are reclaiming their bodies, voices, and place in the world. It's about being allowed to be fully in our bodies, unapologetically and authentically."
With her camera in hand, Falana embarked on a journey to redefine beauty on her terms. "In Calgary, we're not bound by traditional beauty standards," she declared. "We embrace our imperfections, our quirks, and our individuality."
"We're witnessing shows that embrace inclusiveness, enriching their storylines. So, the palette I work with reflects my identity as a woman of color, a Black woman. Diverse women surround me in my life, and I aspire to empower them to express their sensuality and sexuality authentically. It's about breaking away from Western European standards and embracing realness. In life, we all possess these qualities."
Through her lens, Falana captured the strength, resilience, and authenticity of Calgary's women. From the vibrant energy of the Calgary Stampede to the serene beauty of Prince's Island Park, her photographs reflected the diversity and vibrancy of the city itself.
And as her images adorned the walls of local galleries and sparked conversations in coffee shops and community centers across the city, Falana smiled, knowing that she had helped shine a light on the true essence of Calgary – a city where every woman is empowered to celebrate her own skin and her own story.
