In the late 90s I spent a magical year living in Cotonou, Benin. During the day I taught bright-eyed fourth graders at a public elementary school. At night I went out dancing in the local clubs, often with a wily Italian I befriended named Feliciano. I wrote about my nocturnal adventures for the latest issue of @hotshoemagazine which celebrates the photography of West Africa. I’m grateful to Gregory Barker for the chance to reflect on the special breed of freedom I found on those Beninese dance floors. Pick up the issue at https://www.hotshoemagazineshop.com/products/issue-207-a-west-african-portrait #outnow #hotshoemagazine #westafricanphotography #westafrica #cotonou #portonovo #benin #leonceraphaelagbodjelou #jamesbarnor #rachidibissiriou #jeandepara #samuelfosso #omarvictordiop #oumarka #seydoukeita #malicksidibe #sanlesory #salaelisepatterson