Born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chéri Samba emerged as a significant figure in the Kinshasa art scene during the 1970s. He gained international prominence for his distinctive style, which blends elements of popular culture, advertising, and traditional Congolese painting techniques to address themes of urban life and global politics.

His work is characterized by the inclusion of handwritten text directly on the canvas, serving as a narrative guide for the viewer. These paintings often feature self-portraits and satirical observations, bridging the gap between fine art and public communication. His practice has been instrumental in bringing contemporary African art to the forefront of the global stage.

Samba’s work is held in major institutional collections, including the Centre Georges Pompidou and the Museum of Modern Art. His influence continues to be recognized through major acquisitions, such as the recent donation of works by African and diaspora artists to the Tate, further cementing his status as a foundational voice in modern African art.