In a striking commentary on African unity, Billy Gibula’s “Non au Tribalisme” (No to Tribalism) emerges as a powerful visual manifesto against tribal division. Through this evocative piece, our co-founder and Kinshasa-based artist tackles one of Africa’s most pressing social challenges with both artistic finesse and profound sensitivity.
Created in 2023, this acrylic and oil on canvas painting features a central figure wearing a traditional African print outfit in vibrant purple and yellow patterns. The figure, bearing a mask-like face reminiscent of traditional African masks, holds a banner declaring “NON AU TRIBALISME.” What makes this composition particularly striking is the contrast between the colorful, detailed figure and the stark black background marked by rust-colored geometric patterns, suggesting both the complexity of tribal identity and the rigid barriers it can create.
“I wanted to raise awareness about different tribes,” Gibula explains, “about not creating separation or rejecting someone who isn’t from your tribe.” This message resonates throughout the piece, from the purple parrot perched on the figure’s shoulder – perhaps symbolizing the voice of reason and unity – to the intricate patterns on the figure’s clothing that seem to blend various traditional African textile motifs.
The artwork’s power lies in its sophisticated layering of symbolism. The mask-like face, with its hollow eyes and elongated beard, might represent the anonymity of tribal identity – a reminder that beneath our ethnic distinctions, we share a common humanity. “We are all humans, we are all from the same family,” emphasizes Gibula, “Love must reign between us.”
Through this piece, Gibula continues to demonstrate his commitment to fostering unity and understanding through art, values that are at the very core of our platform’s mission. For acquisition inquiries, contact us at kitokongo.art@gmail.com.
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