Stary Mwaba comes from Zambia and initially worked there as a family counsellor to earn a living. He made drawings, posters and objects in the framework of that activity so as to have visual aids when discussing health care matters. These works have been incorporated into Mwaba’s artistic work as well. Over and over again, we can detect topics, concerns and representations that go beyond the context of art. His pictures and installations focus on historical and socio-political issues. In giving them expression, he uses recurring materials that are vital for his country of origin. Copper and oil, for example, play an important role when he addresses the issues of colonisation and freedom of expression and refers to possible future scenarios.

With the aim of promoting intercultural dialogue, the KfW Foundation, in cooperation with the Künstlerhaus Bethanien, is conducting a studio programme that enables budding artists from Latin America, Africa and Asia to spend twelve months in Berlin.