Jimi Kabela
Jimi Kabela Artist Statement
I use remnants of traditional African textiles and other items to express the Congolese and African roots of my birthplace. The bold, colorful patterns worn by the men and women of the Congo serve as a reminder of my ancestors, language, and origins. At the same time, my abstract paintings are influenced by my American experiences, specifically my upbringing in Dallas, Texas.
In my artwork, I seek to capture the complexity, positive rhythms, and energies of both African and American cultural influences. Through the process of collaging and abstraction, both with paint and African textiles, I am able to depict the duality of these cultures. My use of geometry and process in abstract painting serves to balance and harmonize these influences, creating a visual representation of my cultural identity.
