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TAG / INTERVIEWS / STEVEN BANDOMA (DRC)
   
Sisanda: Steve you are an artist from Kinshasa, Congo, tell us what led you to the arts ?

Steve Bandoma: I started drawing from a young age and continued until I got my bachelors degree in fine arts in 2004 at the Académie des Beaux-Arts (Academy of Fine Arts).I arrived in South Africa in 2005 during which time I acquainted myself with the unique culture of Cape Town. I got involved in a lot of initiatives with a focus on new media- I participated in the Multimediations project hosted by Cape Africa Platform.

Sisanda: You have a very special connection with the city, what has been your experience of Cape Town? Why Greatmore at this time?

S.B.:I think I found my artistic identity when I came to this city, I do feel that my term at Cape Town has come to an end though- I thought it would be important to end my experience of the city by participating in a workshop or residency at Greatmore Studios. The space provides a much needed opportunity to network. During my residency I have been awakened to new possibilities to participate in international residencies, competitions and exhibition options.

Sisanda: Which artists’ work do you admire? How does it differ from you own approach to artmaking?

S.B.: I like Nandipha Mntambo’s and Pierre Fouche’s work as well; they both explore new media…I identify with Pierre’s techniques, his work is complicated and really grabs one’s attention. My work explores notions of space- I use various materials, ropes, baiting, rubber and other found materials. My themes are so broad- I interrogate ideas around politics, social and racial issues. Although I am confident with the particular technique I use in my art making, I try not to limit myself in my artistic concerns, the art public need diversity.

Sisanda: How have you taken criticism to your work during your stay at the studios?

S.B.: I enjoy criticism because it is part of growing up…I know many artists do not feel comfortable with much criticism. You really have to make an effort to be familiar with someone’s work before passing your judgment,

Greatmore Studios has provided an appropriate space for Steve to experiment, breaking away from the conventions of sculpture making, his work in latex and rubber form some provocative serpentine “sculptures”. Recently Steve facilitated an important workshop at Cape Africa Platform ( www.capeafrica.org ) that saw him discuss with a team of Young Creatives how to compile and design a comprehensive and professional CV and art portfolio including an artists’ statement and biography.

   
     
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