October Gallery in Bloomsbury, London, is hosting Nature Morte, the latest solo exhibition by Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga, one of the most prominent contemporary artists from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Running until 25th January 2025, this exhibition offers a visually stunning yet deeply thought-provoking exploration of the environmental and human toll wrought by industrial mining in the Congo. Through his captivating paintings, Kamuanga Ilunga continues to build on his reputation as a storyteller of global relevance, tackling themes of cultural identity, exploitation, and resilience.
About the Exhibition
The title Nature Morte—French for “dead nature” or still life—resonates on multiple levels in this series. On the surface, the works are rich with colour and energy, depicting domestic scenes filled with toys, furniture, and everyday objects. However, the absence of a central figure, often symbolised by empty high chairs or untouched toys, creates a striking emotional void. This absence reflects not only personal loss but also the broader cultural and environmental disconnection caused by the relentless extraction of natural resources in the Congo.
Kamuanga Ilunga’s signature motif—figures marked by intricate digital circuits—is a recurring element in Nature Morte. These markings symbolise the tension between tradition and globalisation, highlighting the complex dynamics of a country that is rich in natural resources yet exploited by international industries. By focusing on materials like cobalt and coltan, essential to the production of electronics and batteries, the artist draws attention to the hidden costs of modern technology and the environmental degradation it fuels.
This body of work builds on Kamuanga Ilunga’s established practice of blending storytelling with symbolism. Each painting serves as a visual and emotional entry point into a narrative that explores the impact of industrial mining on Congolese communities. The vivid colours and detailed compositions invite the viewer to linger, only to confront the unsettling truths embedded in the imagery.
About Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga
Born in 1991 in Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga is a leading figure in African contemporary art. His journey began at the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Kinshasa, where he developed a strong foundation in painting. However, the restrictive and traditional curriculum, heavily influenced by colonial history, prompted him to leave in 2011. Seeking greater creative freedom, Kamuanga co-founded M’Pongo, a collective studio that became a hub for emerging artists in Kinshasa, fostering innovation and collaboration.
Kamuanga Ilunga’s art focuses on the seismic cultural, political, and environmental shifts in the Congo. His work mourns the loss of traditional practices while interrogating the forces—both local and global—that continue to shape the country’s identity. The figures in his paintings, adorned with digital circuitry, are emblematic of the modern Congolese experience: connected to an ancestral past yet deeply affected by the rapid pace of globalisation.
Over the years, Kamuanga Ilunga’s work has been exhibited internationally, with solo exhibitions at October Gallery in 2016, 2018, and now 2024. His art has been showcased at major institutions, including the Royal Academy of Arts in London, the Kunsthaus Graz in Austria, and the Fowler Museum at UCLA. His works are also part of prestigious collections, such as the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa (MOCAA) in Cape Town, South Africa, and the Hood Museum of Art in the United States.
The Venue
October Gallery, located in the vibrant cultural district of Bloomsbury, London, is renowned for promoting contemporary art from around the world. Since its establishment in 1979, the gallery has been a platform for artists whose work engages with critical global issues. The intimate space is ideal for immersing yourself in the visual and emotional depth of Nature Morte.
The gallery is conveniently situated at 24 Old Gloucester Street, within walking distance of Holborn and Russell Square tube stations. Its central location makes it easily accessible for Londoners and visitors alike.
Exhibition Details
- Dates: 14 November 2024 – 25 January 2025
- Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 12:30 PM – 5:30 PM (Closed Sunday, Monday, and public holidays)
- Admission: Free
For enquiries about the exhibition or to learn more about the works on display, contact October Gallery at +44 (0) 20 7242 7367 or email art@octobergallery.co.uk.
Why You Should Visit
Nature Morte is more than an art exhibition—it is an invitation to reflect on the intersections of culture, environment, and global responsibility. Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga’s work speaks to universal themes while grounding them in the specific histories and realities of the Congo. The vibrancy of his art contrasts with the sobering narratives it conveys, offering a profound and multi-layered experience.
Whether you are an art enthusiast, a student of global issues, or simply curious about the intersections of tradition and modernity, this exhibition is not to be missed. Admission is free, making it accessible to all.
For more information about the exhibition and other artists represented by October Gallery, visit their website or join their mailing list for updates.