Nigerian Gods Walk Among Us in Stunning Photo Series

Nigerian photographer Dammy Twitch has been honored with the International Discovery of the Year title at the 1839 Awards 2026 for his captivating photo series, 'What If We Lived Among Gods.' This award-winning project explores a West African nation where divine beings and ordinary people coexist. The series draws inspiration from mythology, culture, and visual storytelling to craft an alternate reality where heavenly figures are casually integrated into everyday life.

Examples include a golden goddess relaxing under a beach umbrella and an elderly woman conversing with companions as washing dries nearby. These scenes were meticulously captured on 120 film using medium format cameras, resulting in a timeless, dreamlike aesthetic with warm colors and soft light. This analog approach aligns perfectly with the series' deliberate staging, making them appear as spontaneous documentary moments.

Twitch, also known as Apampa Oluwadamilola Owolabi, has a background in film and music video direction, having worked with prominent artists and brands. His cinematic eye is evident in each frame, which resembles a still from a film, rich with character, costume, and narrative. The 1839 Awards saw record international participation this year, with entries from 79 countries.