London

Kingelez, Bodys Isek
Born 1948 in Kimbembele Ihunga, Democratic Republic of Congo
Died 2015 in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo
Kingelez has created hundreds of models from found materials in which paper, cardboard, and plastic are used to construct the present, the future, and the hopes of an African renewal. Incorporating his models—some playful, some imposing—he imagines entire cities with carefully conceived urban grids. Avenues, parks, waterways, stadiums, and monuments are also part of Kingelez’s meticulous vision. Together these elements fulfil the functions of Kingelez’ utopian metropolis. Notable exhibitions include Bodys Isek Kingelez: City Dreams, MoMA, New York (2018); Making Africa, A Continent of Contemporary Design, Travelling Exhibition, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, USA (2015-2019); Art/Afrique : le nouvel atelier, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Paris (2017) and Beauté Congo 1926-2015, Congo Kitoko, Fondation Cartier, Paris (2015-2016).
Bodys Isek Kingelez, 155, Amango bank, 2001, Plastic, cardboard, paper, 76 x 26 x 18 cm. Courtesy MAGNIN-A

Artists 2018