“Horse and Gunpowder” is a series of photos taken in the region of “Temacine,” Tougourt, Algeria, North Africa. The focus of this collection revolves around an age-old tradition known as “Fantasia.” Fantasia is a traditional equestrian exhibition in the Maghreb region, performed during cultural festivals and Maghrebi wedding celebrations. This captivating display of horsemanship has a rich presence in Algeria, Libya, Mali, Morocco, Niger, Mauritania, and Tunisia.
Dating back to ancient Numidian times, Fantasia was a practice embraced by the Numidian cavalry. The showcased photos, captured between 2020 and 2021, beautifully illustrate the intricate relationship between horsemanship, music, and gunpowder. This series highlights the enduring beauty of this ancestral culture, which remains preserved and actively practiced to this day. Fantasia continues to play a significant role in weddings and other important events, serving as a proud representation of our cultural heritage and roots.