The Defise Foundation participated in a panel discussion at 1-54 Contemporary African art fair entitled ‘Art as a Tool of Change: The Potential of Congolese Contemporary Art on the Global Art Stage'

It led a discussion delving into the contemporary art scene in the Democratic Republic of Congo, exploring the various actors involved, including artists, curators, art schools, galleries, museums, and foundations working to nurture Congolese art at home and abroad.

The conversation discussed the potential, challenges, and opportunities for artists and art professionals from the Congo at home, in Africa, and in the international art arena.

The panellists explored some potential solutions to assist artists, including possibly creating an eco-system with actual infrastructure, collective spaces, governmental support, and a network of collectors. The panel also looked at the Congolese diaspora and what individuals communicate and share regarding what the Congolese culture offers. It was suggested that the Congolese diaspora could be a key factor in developing the Congolese art scene