Léonard Pongo

Léonard Pongo is a photographer and filmmaker who lives in Belgium and the Democratic Republic of Congo. In his work, he combines photography, moving images, textiles and various printing techniques in in situ installations. His artistic practice explores how culture emerges from the land through 'conversations' with the Congolese environment.

In Primordial Earth, a mixed-media installation that adapts to each presentation context, the land is seen as a conscious, autonomous character and source of inspiration with its own will and power, resulting in a peculiar universe that seems to exist both inside and outside reality. Here, nature speaks without the need for translation. The work offers a compelling view of the land, inspired by its traditions, and sees the beautiful and diverse environment not only as the origin of consciousness, but also as a source of inspiration for understanding, depicting and imagining our relationship with the planet. Films, prints and veils create a layered reality in which understanding arises through the sensory. In this way, Primordial Earth offers a reflection on the interaction between land, tradition and collective consciousness.