Bonowanda Art

About

Meet Owanda Djangawongo Bon, a truly remarkable talent. Born on August 29, 1993, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Owanda’s passion for art was ignited in his childhood, spending his free time mastering the disciplines of drawing and painting. His artistic journey led him to the prestigious Institute of Fine Arts in Kinshasa, where he delved into the world of painting until 2012. The next chapter of his life took him across continents to Canada, where he has resided since 2014.

Owanda’s paintings are deeply personal and intuitive, reflecting his inner world and present experiences. His style draws from the vibrant colors of pop art, the profound influences of his Congolese culture, and the teachings of regional masters such as Franck Dikisongele. Owanda’s creative process is a liberating endeavor, where he extrapolates from spontaneous brushstrokes to create images drawn from imagination. His work embraces the philosophy of making the best of life’s unexpected turns, a principle that also mirrors his personal journey.

A significant element of Owanda’s artistic narrative is the invisible presence of “guardian angels,” symbolic protectors that echo themes of hope, serenity, and personal evolution. His paintings, though dealing with profound themes, are optimistic in their vivid color palettes.

His inspirations range from meditation, natural and supernatural phenomena, to the allure of celestial bodies. Owanda also pays tribute to his Congolese roots through his choice of colors and elements, such as traditional masks, that embody the spirit of his culture and homeland.

Working with basic materials and reclaimed objects, Owanda seeks to infuse his works with the energy and spirituality he carries within him. His pieces are often revisited and retouched multiple times, further adding to their depth and layered narrative.

Owanda’s works have been displayed in numerous collective exhibitions, including the Festival International Mwangaza RDC in Kinshasa in 2009, and most recently at the Finity Gallery in Berlin, Germany, and the Johnathan Schultz Gallery in Miami, USA, both in 2023.

Discover Bonowanda’s art – a journey through cultural roots, personal evolution, and a profound love for color.

Portfolio