In May, we had the joy to participate in a panel talk with Zemba Luzamba and Bola Mosuro at the Kristin Hjellegjerde Gallery, where we discussed Zemba's solo show, "Angalia Kwa Karibu" ("Look Close" in Swahili). The conversation covered his career, inspirations, and elements of Congolese culture. Our founder, Alain Defise, highlighted the Congolese art scene and the mission of the Defise Foundation to enhance the visibility of Congolese talent..

About Zemba''s exhibition
Luzamba invites us to explore meaning and emotion through gestures, clothing, and expressions, reflecting on themes of self-expression, community, and resistance. He captures moments from contemporary life within a cultural context, conveying a universal message: the human spirit embodies resilience, hope, and resourcefulness. Regardless of the time or circumstances, we will always find ways to carve our own paths and unite.

This exhibition pairs distinctive clothing with titles in Swahili, such as "Bakolo tirran," which describes individuals who have established authority in their neighbourhoods through long-term residency, despite not owning the land. Other titles, like "Mulambo" (black tax), highlight the financial burden that successful Black individuals often face when they feel obligated to support family members as a form of repayment for their upbringing. In "Mkimbizi" (asylum seeker), "Maisha Mapya" (new life), and "Mwanzo mpya" (new beginning), Luzamba captures hope through symbols, like an egg representing origin and wealth, and the cutting of a rope, which signifies ceremonial inauguration. In "Pamoja na furaha" (together with joy), men in matching black suits gather to drink whiskey, celebrating solidarity and community.

A nod to the SAPE (Société des Ambianceurs et des Personnes Élégantes),a Congolese subculture that emerged in the 1960s and 70s in response to President Mobutu’s ban on Western-style suits in favour of the abacost, a lightweight suit which was traditionally worn without a tie, can be seen throughout the paintings. The abacost was seen as the uniform of Mobutu’s supporters, especially those who had benefited from his regime. As such, the wearing of a suit and tie became a symbol of resistance and freedom, and today, it still retains that association for many Congolese people. In this exhibition, the distinctive clothing is paired with the use of Swahili, Luzamba’s native tongue, to title the paintings and further imbue the works with cultural specificity.