Samuel Lemba “Representation is not just about being seen”
By Christian Wabenga / NOVEMBER 13, 2024
Stepping into Samuel Lemba’s studio, light and color are the first things that strike you. Large windows flood the space, illuminating his canvases and giving his workspace a sacred feel. Samuel greets us warmly, sharing insights with a depth that mirrors the depth of his work. He speaks candidly about his journey, his paintings, and his inspirations — each piece a blend of stories and emotions. “Drawing became my way to tell stories, and today, my paintings are my voice, my reflection, my legacy.”
Crédit © anungaristote
Samuel, known as Bodman, didn’t always plan on pursuing art. As a child, his passion was football, and a sports career seemed within reach. A severe injury, however, changed his path and forced him to consider other possibilities. Inspired by his uncles, both gifted artists, he turned to drawing as a new outlet—a means of self-discovery. One spring day, he fully dived into art, making drawing his primary language. Since then, he’s never stopped, sketching at school, at home, and even surrounded by friends.
Seeking depth in style: shadow, color, and inspiration
At first, Bodman worked only in black and white, using pens to explore the duality of life and death, light and dark. It was at La Cambre that he truly unlocked his potential, integrating theory and contemplation into his creative process. “Here, it’s all about theory and research,” he shared with l’OFFICIEL in a recent interview. This environment shaped his artistic vision, pushing him to experiment with vibrant colors inspired by artists like Francis Bacon, whose work he admires for capturing “a haunting beauty in dark subjects.” Today, he uses color to play with perception, creating conversations around psychological themes.
Crédit © anungaristote
“In my paintings, black and white are more than colors—they’re symbols. They evoke hardship but also rebirth,” he notes, referencing Kerry James Marshall, who inspired him to use black as a tribute to his community.
Representation: A personal mission and a Congolese legacy
When asked about representation in contemporary art, Samuel describes it as a “personal mission.” For him, art is both an expression and a force for change. “Representation isn’t just about visibility; it’s about crafting narratives, making an impact, inspiring others.” He cites Aimé Mpané, Basquiat, Kerry James Marshall, and Chéri Samba as influences, urging him to advocate for greater visibility of Black artists.
Samuel sees himself as both a Black artist and an African artist. He draws from the rich artistic heritage of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where painting, comics, and sculpture address intense political and social themes. This legacy encourages him to develop a unique voice, steeped in his continent’s traditions and personal history. His commitment to representation is woven into each of his works, aiming to reveal the complexity and richness of his identity.
Fashion and fabric as sources of narrative
Among Samuel’s many inspirations, fabric holds a special place. For him, it’s not about the garment itself, but rather the material and its intimate connection with the wearer. “Fabric is like a second skin, a form of memory,” he says, looking at a carefully painted drape on one of his canvases. He sees fashion as a way to convey powerful messages, much like Balenciaga’s runways, using texture, volume, and fluidity to tell stories.
He admires Balenciaga’s boldness, as well as Raf Simons and Dries Van Noten for their blend of intensity and sensuality—qualities that echo in his paintings, where fabric embodies his characters and adds movement to each piece.
Through his art, Samuel Lemba seeks to spark conversations and bring invisible stories to light. He sees his work as a celebration, a challenge, and a transmission of his heritage. “Art is an endless story, and I hope my work will always invite reflection and dialogue,” he concludes.
Out the Lies is proud to accompany Samuel, known as Bodman, on this journey, supporting his next steps in the world of contemporary art.