Cinthia Sina Mulanga’s work revolves around the representation of Black female subjects and their relationship with space. Cinthia’s art challenges societal norms and explores the complexities of a black woman’s identity in today’s world. She aims to shed light on the strength and resilience of black women despite the oppressive systems they face.
When analyzing her work, Cinthia walks into the concept of space on multiple levels. On one hand, space represents the physical environment, while on the other, it symbolizes an extension of the individual. In her artworks, space becomes a protagonist, embodying the human experience and inviting viewers to reflect and interact with it.
One of Mulanga’s signature techniques is the juxtaposition of several different women in her paintings. By doing so, she emphasizes the multifaceted nature of female identity and the range of consciousness that occupies a single space or moment in time.
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Mulanga’s art engages in a dialogue with the tradition of western painting, particularly in terms of the representation of black female subjects. By including painted or collaged artworks on the walls of her subjects rooms, she references pop culture and historical artworks.
These images serve as a reminder of how societal expectations and beauty standards impact the lives of her subjects. Through her work, she challenges the absence of black female representation and questions the male-dominated art world.
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Having grown up and trained as an artist in South Africa, Cinthia’s work is deeply rooted in her adopted home. She often references well-known artworks produced by her South African contemporaries, paying tribute to their contributions to the art scene.
This referential element adds depth and context to her pieces, allowing her to explore spaces beyond her own reach and that of her viewers. She also incorporates furniture and decorative pieces that evoke aspirational lifestyles portrayed in decor magazines, to enhance the narrative of her artworks.
