Born in 1959, Nioki, Democratic Republic of Congo. Lives and works in Kinshasa  Democratic Republic of Congo.

As the majority of “popular” artist from Kinshasa, Monsengo Shula’s talent for drawing was apparent in the early years of his life. Shula’s art career began at the age of 15, when he worked as the assistant to his cousin Moke, godfather of “popular painting” and a master colourist. Shula is one of those who believes that narrative paintings directly stemmed from everyday life must be critical, condemn political unfairness, bring awareness and educate the population. This is why all of his paintings carry the message “The Painter is useful because we say out loud what others are thinking quietly”. Shula distinguishes himself from other “popular painters”, such as Moke, Chéri Samba, Chéri Chérin. His unique color combinations give his paintings a surreal aspect, as if he has managed to overcome reality. Shula’s recent paintings brings a new perspective tomajor problems such as global warming, international policy and the mankind’s relationship to technology.