Artist Biography

Elielle Kayomb is a multidisciplinary artist focused on painting and printmaking, born in Congo (DRC) and based in the US. She received her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Maryland Institute College of Art in 2025 and her Associate in Fine Arts from Montgomery College in 2023. Elielle has exhibited at The Museum of Science and Technology in Chicago, The Sarah Silberman Art Gallery, and King Street Gallery in Maryland. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Art Education at the Maryland College Institute of Art.

Artist Statement

I strive to keep my head above water, regardless of life's challenges. Water has always captivated me with its dual nature, both life-giving and dangerous. Like life itself, water constantly shifts, sometimes calm and gentle, other times turbulent, yet always in motion. Through my art, water serves as a conduit for exploring identity, trauma, loss, and grief.

I draw inspiration from classical portraiture and traditional African art. Philosophical theories (especially psychoanalysis of the self) deeply inform my practice, particularly regarding emotional and psychological trauma. My work delves into my emotional journey, examining the nuances between self and culture, how the mind processes personal events, and how culture shapes those experiences within my current social context.

Recently, my work has taken on a more minimalist approach. To distill my ideas to their essence, I chose charcoal and Oil paint as my preferred media. I also use watercolors, the first medium I ever used, which allows me to reconnect with my origins as a painter, while oils play a significant role in my current practice. My creative process is less about controlling the narrative or seeking answers and more about observing how the materials themselves respond to my concepts.