Chéri Chérin

Joseph Kinkonda Kubutuka, known famously by the nom de plume Chéri Chérin, was born in Kinshasa in 1955 and studied ceramics at the Académie des Beaux-Arts (ABA) in Kinshasa under Austrian ceramic artist Peter Weihs.

From a young age, Chérin developed a passion for drawing and painting, choosing to express himself through a vibrant, figurative, and deeply committed style. After completing his studies in sculpture at the ABA, Chérin returned to painting and went on to become one of the most representative painters of Congolese popular art, alongside the likes of Chéri Samba and Moké Santu.

Through his canvases, Chérin depicted Congolese society with realism, humour, and a critical spirit. Chérin addressed themes such as politics, culture, daily life, and social issues. He often said: “Painting is telling thestory of the people with colours.”

Chéri Chérin participated in numerous group and solo exhibitions in cities including Tokyo, Paris, London, Düsseldorf, and Stockholm, contributing to the recognition of his artwork and establishing him as a leading figure in Congolese popular art worldwide. Most notably, he was part of the groundbreaking 2004-2005 Africa Remix exhibition, which travelled between leading art institutions such as Hayward Gallery in London, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and the Johannesburg Art Gallery.

Beyond his artwork, Chéri Chérin leaves us an invaluable legacy. He was a mentor to many young and well-known artists, whom he trained and inspired in Kinshasa, the likes of Grady (his daughter), J.P Mika, Moke Fils, Sapin Makengele and many others.

Biography courtesy of Strauss & Co