A selection of images by self-taught photographer Akilah Townsend. Born and raised in the South Side of Chicago, Townsend draws inspiration from cinema for her vibrant, colorful photographs. With an interest in time—past, present, and future—she is currently working on a project in tribute to her ancestors. “My parents taught me to honor my ancestors and I’m inspired by the paths that it took for us to be here today and the way we are currently shaping our futures,” she explains.

See more from Akilah Townsend below!