Bodys Isek Kingelez

Bodys Isek Kingelez or Jean Baptiste (1948 – 14 March 2015) was a Congolese sculptor and artist known for his models of fantastic cities, made of cardboard, paper, tape and other commonplace materials.

"[1] Kingelez has called his art extrêmes maquettes (English: extreme models),[8][9] and has said about his artistic approach: “I make this most deeply imaginary, meticulous and well considered work with the aim of having more influence over life.

As a black artist I must set a good example by receiving the light which pure art, this vital human instrument, kindles for the sake of all.

I exhibit a mode of expression which fits me like a glove, and I point out that I am another artist.”[10] Kingelez created more than 300 models, starting with individual architectural structures.

[13][14] In 1989 he was invited to Paris to present his work at the Centre Georges Pompidou in the exhibition Les Magiciens de la Terre curated by Jean-Hubert Martin and supported by The Contemporary African Art Collection (CAAC) of Jean Pigozzi.