When we delve into the artistic universe of Evans Mbugua, a renowned Kenyan visual artist, a profound reflection emerges on the creative process and the meaning of the works exhibited at the ART-Z gallery in Paris. Known for his paintings on plexiglass, Mbugua surprises us by breaking these supports to reconstitute them in an innovative way. This audacious artistic approach, which borrows elements from the stained glass technique, reveals a subtle dialogue between fragmentation and reconstruction, between rupture and repair.
The choice to work with plexiglass as an initial support turns out to be much more than a simple aesthetic decision. Indeed, Mbugua expresses his deep desire to transcend the traditional limits of painting to explore new forms of artistic expression. The chance encounter with the stained glass technique in Spain, coupled with the meticulous observation of the stained glass repair process, marked a decisive turning point in his artistic practice. Using wire to assemble the broken fragments of his works, the artist creates a unique aesthetic, imbued with symbolism and metaphors.
Beyond the technical aspect, Evans Mbugua’s artistic approach takes on a deeply symbolic dimension. By visually repairing the broken characters he paints, the artist invites us to reflect on the concepts of healing and resilience. Through his works, Mbugua testifies to a personal quest for reparation, nourished by the historical wounds of his country, Kenya, marked by the weight of colonialism and past injustices. By revisiting collective history and revealing the scars of the past, the artist offers a profound reflection on the need to rebuild our identities and fully assume our heritage.
By exploring the themes of psychological repair and identity reconstruction, Evans Mbugua challenges us on the importance of revisiting the dark pages of history, of recognizing them and transcending them. His artistic work thus becomes a vibrant testimony of memory and an invitation to collective reflection. By exhibiting his works at the ART-Z gallery, the Kenyan artist offers us a deep dive into a universe where art becomes a tool for healing and social transformation.
Through his innovative creative process and his deep commitment to repair and resilience, Evans Mbugua reminds us of the power of art as a vector for change and reconciliation. His exhibition in Paris represents much more than a simple presentation of works; it is a call to action, an incentive to look beyond appearances to discover the true essence of our humanity. Evans Mbugua, a visionary and committed artist, inspires us to break down the barriers of the past to better build the future.