Black bodies - White abyss

This series originated as a collection of photographs, which in turn inspired a series of drawings. Its primary purpose is to celebrate Ilunga's love for being black. As an Afrofuturist, Ilunga recognized the importance of shedding light on how institutionalized spaces have historically centered around dehumanizing the black body politic. These spaces subtly ingrained in society the belief that black bodies are disposable and perpetuated the notion that their experiences needed validation through comparison with other races.

Within this series, black bodies are depicted in empty white spaces. Each body, regardless of its size, demands recognition and occupies space with a unique pose and inherent beauty. The use of chiaroscuro technique adds depth and contrast to the renderings. The original photographs were captured at the University of Johannesburg's Bunting Road campus, but the empty backgrounds have been distorted in the drawings, emphasizing the black bodies' reclamation of space in their dynamic and distinctive splendor. This series conveys the notion that the institutionalized space is of little importance, as black individuals are inherently deserving of claiming their space, regardless of their surroundings.

A consistent theme throughout the series is the protection and preservation of the unique perspective and identity of the black body. The figures' faces are deliberately concealed in each pose, allowing their bodies to stand as monolithic representations of black femme bodies. By obscuring their faces, the focus shifts towards the collective experience and representation rather than individual identities.

Overall, this series celebrates and affirms the beauty, presence, and power of black bodies, challenging societal narratives and inviting viewers to appreciate the multifaceted expressions of blackness.