Raphael Bahindwa’s Artist statement

I’m a Fine Artist disciplined in Painting who emanates from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In 2022 I received my B.F.A. in Painting from SCAD Atlanta. Throughout my time at SCAD, I have been able to sharpen my skills on the canvas. I have a strong ability in creating vividly compelling storytelling through painting, which is influenced by my cultural identity in the Congo as well as by my daily experiences.

My paintings reflects the current events in my homeland, the Democratic Republic of the Congo. As a Congolese citizen living in America, I'm inspired to raise awareness about the ongoing suffering in my country. I prefer working with mixed media; my go-to technique involves layering acrylic on canvas and then painting with oil on top.

I’m currently working on developing a unique abstract style that involves the usage of arrows, fluorescent colors in a dark background, and other symbolic Congolese artifacts. I draw a lot of inspiration from Congolese traditional masks, arrows used by the warriors, and other artifacts emblematic to the Congo. I feel it’s important as an artist representing the Congo, to express some of the turmoil that happens back home through a visually captivating medium like painting.

My work is intended for everyone, especially those interested in learning more about the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the pervasive issue of child labor in a country rich in mineral resources.