Democratic Republic of the Congo's Joseph Jessy Dunga, a young and talented plastic artist, has made a name for himself on the international art scene. Currently studying fine arts at the Kinshasa Academy of Fine Arts (ABA-Kinshasa), Dunga recently won the 2026 Art Humanité International Prize with his artwork titled "La force des fragiles" (The Strength of the Fragile). This achievement marks a significant milestone in his career.
The Art Humanité International Prize, presented by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in collaboration with ABA-Kinshasa, recognizes artistic creations that explore humanity, solidarity, and community resilience. Dunga's winning artwork pays tribute to the Ngbaka people, an ethnic group from the Sud-Ubangi province, with whom he shares a familial connection. Through his work, he conveys a universal truth: fragility is not a weakness, but rather a source of dignity, memory, and collective strength.
This international recognition opens new opportunities for Dunga. He will receive financial support from the ICRC and participate in a week-long cultural residency in Geneva, Switzerland, during the award ceremony scheduled for January 2027. The International Red Cross and Red Crescent Museum, a long-standing partner of this initiative, serves as a platform for dialogue between art, humanitarianism, and contemporary issues.
Dunga's artwork is part of a larger exhibition, "Humanitarian, by Design?", which explores how everyday objects reveal the lives and resilience of individuals facing crises. His participation in this exhibition highlights the significance of his work in the context of humanitarianism and art.
In addition to his Geneva residency, Dunga will participate in the " (Anti)fragilités : Alliages" exhibition as part of the Dak'Art 2026 Biennale in Dakar, Senegal, from November 20 to December 19. This event provides a valuable opportunity for him to showcase his work to a diverse audience, both African and international.
Dunga's achievements demonstrate the vibrancy of the Congolese art scene. His prize serves as a testament to the Democratic Republic of the Congo's rich artistic talent and the potential of its young artists to convey powerful local narratives on the international stage.
As Dunga's career continues to unfold, his work is expected to inspire a new generation of Congolese artists. His success highlights the importance of initiatives that promote artistic talent and provide opportunities for young artists to engage with international audiences.
Key points
- Joseph Jessy Dunga wins the 2026 Art Humanité International Prize
- Dunga's artwork explores themes of humanity, solidarity, and community resilience
- The artist will participate in a cultural residency in Geneva and an exhibition in Dakar
