On November 8, the Gervanne + Matthias Leridon Collection, in partnership with the Academy of Fine Arts in Kinshasa, awarded its creative grant to Congolese artist Destin Ushindi. This initiative aims to provide financial support to a young artist from the Academy, offering them the necessary means to produce new works, encourage their practice, and stimulate their artistic research.
As part of this grant, Destin Ushindi is currently working on three new pieces. These works are a continuation of his previous work, exploring the social realities of his country and demonstrating his commitment to social issues through his art. Thanks to the purchase of materials provided by the creative grant, Destin can perfect the technique he has developed in recent years, combining the use of acrylic and ballpoint pen in a style inspired by the calotype photographic process. This time devoted to his creative work also allows him to assert his uniqueness and deepen his mastery of composition and detail in his creations.
The works produced as part of this grant will be exhibited at a presentation at the Academy of Fine Arts in Kinshasa and will also be presented at a professional exhibition and sale at the Texaf Bilembo Cultural and Educational Center, alongside those of Manuella Alonge, winner of the residency grant. These events, organized by the Leridon Collection grant, will enable the artist to share her work with the public, create encounters, and expand her professional network.
The creative grant illustrates the Collection’s commitment to encouraging research, production, and dissemination by young African talents, promoting the circulation of their works and dialogue around their artistic practices.
We will keep you informed of the dates of the exhibition and return of Destin’s works.