CELEBRATING LUMUMBA AND OTHER CONGOLESE HEROES AT THE MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY AND MULTIMEDIA ART
Kinshasa’s Museum of Contemporary and Multimedia Art will unveil the exhibition “Les héros nationaux – Hommages à Patrice Emery Lumumba” on January 17th, a highly symbolic date in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This exhibition pays tribute to the memory of the first post-independence national hero, Patrice Emery Lumumba.
The exhibition will feature around a hundred works including paintings, photographs, and monumental sculptures by artists like Winnart Nsangu, Lebel Ngwani, Saint Pie Roger Bosekota, and many others. Eddy Masambuku and Jerry Nginamau will also participate posthumously. These creations provide a poetic and powerful look at the history of the DRC, shedding light on both well-known and lesser-known heroes, individuals overshadowed by official history but whose courage remains in the collective memory.
Recognized for embodying ideals of freedom, dignity, and social justice, Patrice Emery Lumumba continues to leave his mark on history and inspire current generations. This exhibition aims to rekindle a historical and collective consciousness by showcasing other heroes of the DRC, such as Simon Kimbangu, whose influence on the independence movement is often overlooked.
THE ROLE OF THE MUSEUM AND THE EXHIBITION
Joel Kenda, the director of the Museum of Contemporary and Multimedia Art, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the unsung heroes who fought alongside Lumumba for independence. He highlighted the contributions of individuals like Polo, Okito, and Kimbangu, underscoring their pivotal roles in the country’s history.
Beyond showcasing artworks, the exhibition reaffirms the central role of the historical site of the exchange, which was previously associated with a dark reputation of military and police harassment. Kenda pointed out that the exchange tower is a cultural heritage site dedicated to artists to express themselves and share creations that touch the hearts of visitors.
THE HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF THE EXCHANGE AND MUSEUM
The Museum of Contemporary and Multimedia Art, an extension of the National Museums Institute of Congo, has been located at the exchange site since 2012. Originally designed in 1970 to symbolize national unity, the structure was later renamed “Lumumba Tower” in the 1970s to align with Mobutu’s authenticity agenda.
In 2002, a statue of Lumumba was erected at the site, underscoring its historical and symbolic importance. The exchange in Limete has been designated a national cultural heritage site since 2015, emphasizing its role in the Congolese collective identity.
On January 17th, the exhibition will open its doors, transforming the Exchange Square into a beacon of national memory and artistic creativity. The Museum of Contemporary and Multimedia Art aims to strengthen the connection between history, patriotism, and artistic expression through this exhibition.