From drawing to contemporary art
Gombo defines himself as a visual artist, a term that encompasses a multitude of techniques. From his childhood memories in Luanda, where he reproduced cartoons, to his studies in applied art in Nantes, a constant passion for drawing and storytelling drives him. After a career in cartoon storyboarding, he felt the need to create a more personal work, in line with his African origins.
The quest for origins, an artistic and identity trigger
It’s in the Parisian neighborhood of Château-Rouge that Gombo undertakes an introspection through a documentary film project on taxiphones, places of communication between migrants and their families. This initiative turns into a quest for identity, during which he reassesses the quality of his relationship with his family. He feels the need to explore his heritage. And wax, a textile steeped in history and symbolism, becomes the means of expressing this quest.
Wax, a material steeped in history and symbolism, at the heart of her artistic approach
The artist learns silk-screen printing, a technique adapted to the reproduction of wax patterns. For him, this fabric symbolizes the complex history between Africa and Europe, a blend of cultures and traditions. Gombo uses it to create works that question our view of Africa, proposing a rereading of history. His work is on show at the Musée de l’Homme, as part of the “Wax” exhibition.
A committed artist, between reappropriation and provocation, exploring new territories
Art is used as a means of provocation and reappropriation. Gombo recounts his first “illegal” exhibition, denouncing the violence of museum space. The artist also explores the possibilities offered by virtual reality, creating immersive works that plunge the viewer into the heart of the story.
Art as a journey, a quest for meaning and encounters, which takes him to Brazil.
A nomadic artist’s life, where travel and encounters nourish creativity, is what Gombo aspires to. His next major project will take him to Brazil, in the footsteps of his ancestors. There, he will create a fashion show in collaboration with local artisans, an ambitious project combining art, fashion and social commitment. The artist is looking forward to discovering the richness of Afro-Brazilian culture and creating works of art that are meaningful to him and to local communities.
An independent artist in search of an authentic relationship with the art world, inviting sharing and discovery.
Gombo attaches great importance to transmitting and sharing his work, inviting the public to discover him on social networks and at his forthcoming exhibitions. He is an artist on the move, constantly exploring new territories and new techniques, creating works that are both rooted in tradition and resolutely modern.
Read also
- Wax in the spotlight at Galeries Lafayette
- Wax at the Musée de l’Homme
- Anne Grosfilley, anthropologist specializing in African textiles
