Joel Mamboka

Joël Mamboka N’Kumu (b. 1990) is a mixed media artist who grew up in Kinshasha in the Democratic Republic of Congo and now lives and works in Cape Town. He uses oil paint, fabrics and found objects to create stories that exhibit a dynamic exploration of identity, culture and style that is deeply rooted in African heritage. His portraits often depict individuals in moments of joy, connection or introspection and he frequently uses vintage wallpaper textures with peeling surfaces and intricate designs to evoke nostalgia and a sense of history.