New Work by Jimi Kabela
April 9 - May 9
Opening Reception April 10
Following his participation in RCA’s annual juried collegiate exhibition - Rising Eyes of Texas 2020 , in which he placed 3rd, Jimi Kabela’s first solo show will be hosted in RCA’s Galeria Dos. Kabela’s work is best described as mixed media. He combines painting and fabric to create colorful geometric collages that when examined closely depict figurative themes.
Born in 1990 in Mbuji Mayi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kabela moved to the United States in 2000, and has traveled extensively over the past 10 years to more than 15 countries including Italy, France, China, Brazil and Equatorial Guinea.
“I am a byproduct of both African and American cultural and societal influences,” Kabela said. “My primary influence is the African clothing that is worn by the men and women in the Congo and its potential for exuberant expression. Throughout the creative process, I am reconnecting to my roots, depicting the positive rhythms and energies of the Congolese people while muting out the chaos of the outside world.”
“Chaotic peace is a great way to describe Kabela’s work,” Rodriguez said. “He has an incredible ability to combine pattern and color in a kaleidoscopic meditation on optimism and joy. After such a gloomy year, Kabela’s art is the art we need in the world right now.”
Kabela will soon receive his Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting with a minor in Design from the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA). As a member of the Class of 2021, Kabela recently received the Outstanding Senior Award, the most distinguished award presented to graduates at UTA.