Soccer, football, futbol — it’s the world’s most popular sport, played everywhere, from the limelight stadiums of the World Cup to the small villages of Malawi. And you know what? To hell with the World Cup! Photographer Jessica Hilltout has traveled to spots in Mozambique, Benin, Madagascar, and South Africa, where she documented “football in its purest form” in her project AMEN. These are actual makeshift soccer balls, made by the kids who just love to play.
“The aim of AMEN was to shine the light on all those in the shadow of the World Cup, far from the big stadiums and the corporate carnival-nature of the event,” the photographer explains. “I just followed my gut and felt my way through villages in search of all those little details that speak of Africa’s great football passion.” Spotted by Kottke, see these crafty constructions in our slideshow.
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout
Photo credit: Jessica Hilltout