Bodys Isek Kingelez

Bodys Isek Kingelez, whose real name is Jean Baptiste is born in 1948. He is a sculptor and artist from the Democratic Republic of Congo. He became popular for his models of cities created out of cardboard. His models are presented all over the world, e.g. at the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris and the Museum of Modern Art in New York and at the documenta XI in Kassel.

 

In his earlier life he graduated from secondary school and moved to Kinshasa in 1970. Until 1977 he studied part time. During this period he also started to create artistic works. Since 1985 he is artist as a full time job.

He reached his popularity through fantastic and utopian cities, which he creates out of cardboard, paper and plastic. His works offer a furturistic vision of Kinshasa.

In an interview he said the following about his work:

“I make this most deeply imaginary, meticulous and well considered work with the aim of having more influence over life. As a black artist I must set a good example by receiving the light which pure art, this vital human instrument, kindlesfor the sake of all. Thanks to my deep hope for a happy tomorrow, I strive to better my quality, and the better becomes the wonderful. I exhibit a mode of expression which fits me like a glove, and I point out that I am another artist.”

He also added: “Art is superior knowledge, a vehicle for individual renewal in improving the general well-being.”

He tries to create a better world with his models:

“I wanted my art to serve the community that is being reborn to create a new world, because the pleasures of our earthly world depend on the people who live in it. I created these cities so there would be lasting peace, justice and universal freedom. They will function like small secular states with their own political structure, and will not need policemen or an army.” 

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