The multi-media work of Belgian-born artist Kito Mbiango expresses his love of color, his fascination with photography and collage, and his mixed cultural heritage. His Congolese father inspired Kito with an appreciation of his African heritage while his Belgian mother’s family provided a constant exposure to the arts. From a very early age, Mbiango was exposed to both the natural sensibilities of design and a wide variety of techniques.

Inspired by the artistic side of his family, Mbiango began his career as a photographer. He decided to pursue his dream of creating original artwork that would naturally combine the illustrative elements he loved about photography and painting. His objective was to mix the two mediums in a new way that would not only combine the different art forms but would also unite the disparate cultural influences that were an integral part of his upbringing. His goal is to celebrate ageless culture, or ageless nature, in joyful expression that touches and excites the viewer.

To this end, Mbiango combines photos with design elements that are representative of the subject matter. These illustrative components cross cultures and centuries and borrow imagery from mythology, astrology and science. Over several years, he experimented with various techniques to transfer these images onto different mediums such as linen, canvas and wood. The result are unique “ink transfers” that blend the diverse elements of the work into a cohesive whole.

Exhibitions

2008: Keszler Gallery, Southampton, NY
2007: Keszler Gallery, Southampton, NY
2006: Ethnic Design, Art Basel, Miami
2005: UNICEF Children of Darfur Exhibition, UN Headquarters, NYC, NY
2005: Fotorelief Exhibition, Milk Gallery, NYC, NY