Tshiapota Kapinga
About
In the vibrant tapestry of Congolese artistry, Tshiapota Kapinga emerges as a beacon of resilience, particularly for women artists. Her journey is not just a testament to her unparalleled talent but also a reflection of the challenges faced by women artists in a predominantly male-dominated art scene in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
elonging to a generation where female artists had to carve out their space amidst societal and professional challenges, Tshiapota’s ascent in the art world is emblematic of her indomitable spirit. While she initially aspired for a career in couture, her path led her to the world of painting, where she defied norms and shattered ceilings.
Educated at the esteemed Académie des Beaux-Arts de Kinshasa, Tshiapota’s credentials speak volumes about her dedication. However, it’s her journey, marked by perseverance in the face of adversity, that truly sets her apart. As a woman in the arts, she navigated a landscape where her gender could have been a deterrent. Instead, she turned it into her strength, drawing inspiration from her experiences and channeling them into her creations.
Her artworks, exhibited globally, often resonate with themes of responsibility, nature, and the Congolese spirit. They also serve as a voice for the voiceless, particularly women and children marginalized by societal inequalities. Critics and mentors, like Charles Tumba Kekwo and Professor Lema Kusa, have recognized her unique style, which evolved from the influences of her mentors to a personal style that champions the social development of the Congolese people.
Beyond her individual achievements, Tshiapota’s commitment to uplifting women artists in Congo is evident in her leadership roles. As the President of the Association des Femmes Artistes des Beaux-Arts (AFAB), she actively promotes female artists in the DRC, ensuring they receive the recognition they deserve. Her activism extends to her role in SOCODA, the Congolese Society of Authors’ Rights, and her membership in the Association Congolaise des Artistes Plasticiens, Ateliers Botembe, Terre d’Artistes as well as referent for the CNJF (Comité National des Jeux de la Francophonie) in the painting section.
Public artworks, accolades, and memberships aside, what truly defines Kapinga Tshiapota Scholastique is her unwavering commitment to championing the cause of women in the arts. In a society where female artists once struggled for recognition, Tshiapota stands tall as a trailblazer, inspiring future generations of women artists in Congo and beyond.
Portfolio
