Bodys Isek Kingelez (1948-2015) is a Congolese contemporary African Artist with an architectural style and visions of his own creative urban landscapes. Often exploring the power of architecture, his models or extreme maquettes in City Dreams bring these communities to life using everyday objects, such as soda cans, bottle caps, and colored paper.

In Kinglelez’s man-made utopia, everyone lives in peace, and there is no need for doctors or police. His exhibition, City Dreams, is the first solo exhibition of a Black African artist to appear at the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA).

Kimbembele Ihunga 

In 1994, Kinglez created his first model, Kimbembele Ihunga, inspired by his birth village in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His rendition of the city includes great attractions like skyscraper buildings, restaurants, and a super football stadium.

Palais d’ Hirochima

Palais d’Hirochima was created in 1991 and explores postwar Japan (Japon) through the lens of Kingelez.

Air Force

Belle Hollandaise

Industria da Pharmacia

Like City Dreams by Bodys Isek Kingelez? Subscribe to our mailing list below for more Black contemporary artists.