Landry Mulala
About
Landry Mulala, a revered Congolese painter, intricately captures the vibrancy of the Democratic Republic of Congo in his artwork. His radiant portraits, predominantly of Congolese women and esteemed musicians, emphasize the positive, playful, and spirited culture of his homeland. Notably, he paints ordinary scenes from everyday life, where sometimes these scenes are represented by humans and at other times by bonobos. Indeed, in Landry’s vision, there is a poignant interplay where he sees the bonobo in the human and the human in the bonobo.
From an early age, Landry felt the pull of artistic expression. Childhood memories echo with the sounds of scratching brushes against foufou plates, of hands shaping images on sand, and of ambitious dreams painted on cinema boards. His undeniable talent wasn’t left unnoticed, especially by the renowned Congolese painter Chéri Cherin, who became both an inspiration and mentor for the budding artist.
Indeed, Landry’s admiration for Chéri Cherin is palpable. From the mesmerizing murals Cherin created to his extraordinary tableau, Cherin ignited a flame in Landry that whispered, “One day, I’ll be like him”.
However, Landry’s influences aren’t solely rooted in admiration for seasoned artists. The pulsating life of Kinshasa, with its lively bars, the hustle of motorbikes, and the daily joys and challenges of its inhabitants, serves as a ceaseless inspiration. Over time, his focus has evolved – once centered on humans, he now harbors a particular affection for depicting bonobos.
But Landry is more than just an artist; he is a beacon of hope for the youth. Having mentored numerous young talents, including the noteworthy Billy Gibula, Landry’s dedication is evident. He takes immense pride in his protégés, some of whom have garnered international acclaim. To him, mentoring is not just about teaching; it’s about ensuring his artistic legacy lives on, a legacy recognizable in the strokes and styles of those he’s nurtured.
Yet, the painter’s ambitions don’t stop there. Landry dreams of establishing a free school, particularly for destitute and street children, to teach them the art of painting. He envisions a sanctuary where these children, often victims of circumstances, can escape their hardships and embrace the therapeutic world of art.
Landry also uses his platform to address societal challenges. He laments the commercialization of art, where pieces catered to tourists overshadow genuine artistic expression. He wishes for greater support from affluent Congolese and the government, highlighting the neglect of visual arts compared to music.
His passion for art, mentorship, and societal betterment all converge towards one goal: to make a lasting impact. For Landry Mulala, art is not just a profession; it’s a calling, a way of life, and a beacon for future generations.
Portfolio
