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Cinthia Sifa Mulanga

CongoleseCongolese
, b. 1997

Cinthia Sifa Mulanga is an artist who transitioned from printmaking to painting and collage, using these mediums to challenge the representation of Black female subjects. Her work explores the relationship between individuals and space, where space acts as both a physical presence and a symbolic extension of the self, often personified as an independent protagonist. Through this, she addresses the complexities of Black womanhood, self-acceptance, and the impact of systemic white patriarchy. Mulanga’s paintings often feature multiple female figures to represent the fluidity of identity and consciousness, functioning as multi-perspective portraits. She integrates references to Western art history and popular culture to critique the absence of Black women in these traditions and challenge societal ideals of gender and beauty. Rooted in her experiences in South Africa, Mulanga’s work also reflects local influences and tributes to South African contemporaries, while exploring aspirational lifestyles through decorative elements and the clothing of her subjects. Collaborations with brands like L'MAD and Gucci further emphasize themes of identity, status, and capitalist culture. Ultimately, Mulanga’s art presents a dialogue between personal expression and the societal structures that shape Black women’s lives.