Congolese Artist Eddy Kamuanga Shares ‘Nature Morte’ at London’s October Gallery

October Gallery presents ‘Nature Morte,’ a solo exhibition by acclaimed Congolese artist Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga. His powerful paintings explore environmental toxicity’s impact on Congolese communities through haunting nursery scenes. Unlike his previous work on colonial history, this series depicts modern settings filled with plastic toys, baby chairs, and infant paraphernalia. The paintings show characters seemingly transfixed by colorful yet lifeless objects representing an absent child – the only vital figure whose presence could give meaning to these scenes. The exhibition’s title, meaning ‘dead nature’ in French, takes on a disturbing significance, suggesting either stillbirth or infant mortality caused by environmental degradation.

Kamuanga’s masterful technique shines throughout the exhibition, showcasing his signature style of rendering figures with circuit board-like patterns that shimmer against deep, rich backgrounds. His sophisticated use of color – from luminous metallics to bold, saturated hues – creates an arresting visual narrative that commands attention. The artist’s exceptional ability to blend traditional African motifs with contemporary elements results in compositions of extraordinary depth and complexity. Each canvas demonstrates remarkable technical precision, with meticulous attention to detail in both the figures’ expressions and the carefully rendered objects. The work’s emotional resonance is amplified by Kamuanga’s brilliant manipulation of scale and perspective, creating scenes that are both intimately personal and universally compelling.

For further information, please visit London’s October Gallery’s official website.

Image Eddy Kamuanga Ilunga, Energie red (Red Energy), 2024. Acrylic on canvas. 188 cm x 203 cm.

About Author

David Emmanuel Noel

David Emmanuel Noel is an avid blogger, film fanatic, art enthusiast, music lover, and theatergoer. He is an interdisciplinary artist, curator, and PR consultant who has been involved in several music events and visual art exhibitions at venues such as the Kennedy Center Washington DC, Bernie Grant Arts Centre London, the Landmark Arts Building New York, and Whole 9 Gallery in Culver City, California. He has worked closely with institutes, professional bodies, and agencies such as the Royal Institute of British Architects, New York Mayor’s Office, CAMBA- the New York-based agency, the NSPCC, and several London Boroughs on projects supporting the environmental and therapeutic benefits of the arts. He is based in London and New York.

See author's posts