Exploring the Fusion of Traditional Craft and Contemporary Art with Ndagijimana Alphonse
Ndagijimana Alphonse's art is as rich and colorful as the tapestries he makes.
Born in 1994 in Rwanda and raised in a large family with 11 siblings, Alphonse was first introduced to craft through his father, a talented tailor.
This early experience sparked his interest in the arts, leading him to study graphic art at the Nyundo Art School in Rwanda. There, he began developing his unique artistic approach.
Ndagijimana Alphonse -> Left: Self portrait, Oil on canvas. it's self portrait dedicated to Bwa people; Burkina Faso, the signs' colors relate to the exchange of knowledge in Bwa society. Black, is the color of wisdom accumulated by male and female throughout their angoing participation in the spiritual life of the community; white is associated with those who have just embarked upon a course of initiation.Right: Pumbu self portrait, Oil on canvas. This self portrait is dedicated to the Pende originated in northern Angola but were forced into the Kwango region to the north of the Chokwe, in present-day Democratic Republic of Congo. Pumbu serves as a symbol of the power.
Now studying at Linz Art University in Austria, under the mentorship of Professor Ursula Hübner, Alphonse is perfecting his unique style.
He combines traditional sewing techniques with modern painting and collage to create canvases that are more than just art—they capture key moments of societal change.
His work mixes the lasting traditions of his East African heritage with contemporary influences, showcasing the changing stories of his country and the wider world.
Ndagijimana Alphonse: Selection of Artworks| Image Courtesy by the Artist
Alphonse's art is deeply involved with the textures and materials he uses. Each piece is a conversation between fabric and paint, weaving together historical and current narratives.
His creations act as a bridge, highlighting the shifts in culture and society over time—a visual reflection on how things change, viewed through the eyes of an artist straddling different cultural identities.
At Linz Art University, Alphonse has broadened his skills and themes, blending graphic design with textile techniques to challenge traditional art boundaries.
His work argues powerfully for merging age-old crafts with modern art forms.
Alphonse isn’t just making art; he's creating a visual story that speaks to history, culture, and identity, resonating with a wide range of viewers.
As his art continues to grow, it stands out in the world of contemporary art, encouraging audiences to think differently about the stories woven into the fabric and paint he uses.
Follow Ndagijimana Alphonse on Instagram for more Artworks, upcoming projects and Exhibitions.
Dominique Catherina Foertig
More Artists to Discover | Art Students Channel
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