Art
Telly Kongolo
Seeing the world through canvas and clay
By Myracle Mugol
Telly Kongo with daughters Frances and Sophia
Telly Kongolo , an artist and small business owner , shares his journey from the bustling streets of Kinshasa , Congo ’ s capital , to Tumon . As the co-owner of The Potter ’ s Studio Guam , Kongolo ’ s story intertwines personal growth , artistic evolution and the challenges of managing a creative business .
Born into a family deeply rooted in the art community , Kongolo ’ s journey began with early exposure to creativity . His uncle , serving as the dean of the Academy of Fine Arts in Kinshasa , ignited his passion for the arts . Kongolo ’ s family later relocated to Paris , where his formative years laid the foundation for a multicultural artistic perspective .
Returning to Congo for college studies in art and earning a master ’ s degree in France , Kongolo ’ s artistic voyage took an unexpected turn in 1996 when he received a scholarship to conduct research in China . This global exposure became a fundamental influence on his evolving style , blending his Congolese roots with diverse cultural experiences .
Kongolo was the featured artist at the Lees-Reyes Art Gallery in Tumon Sands Plaza in October . His art show ,
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Cloud , oil on canvas
titled “ My Life ,” showcased a large body of work , including oil paintings and sculptures that leaked hints of Cubist influence .
“ The main source of inspiration is my motherland , Congo / Africa . However , having lived in various countries and immersed in diverse cultures , I ’ ve developed a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of how people live their lives within these cultures . This blend of my Congolese roots and exposure to different worldviews greatly influences my artistic work ,” Kongolo said .
The inception of The Potter ’ s Studio Guam emerged from Kongolo ’ s relocation during the Covid-19 pandemic . Faced with the decision to focus on painting , sculpture , or ceramics , he identified a gap in Guam ’ s artistic offerings .
“ After moving from Korea to Guam during the Covid-19 pandemic , I felt a strong desire to open my own art studio and engage in creative work . I faced a dilemma , trying to decide whether to focus on painting , sculpture , or ceramics . However , I soon realized that while there were numerous painting studios on the island , there was a notable absence of a pottery studio , and the demand for this
Family , My Life , oil on canvas
type of art was substantial ,” Kongolo said .
Reflecting on the challenges and successes of managing the studio , Kongolo emphasizes the logistical difficulties of importing materials . “ My most significant challenge in running my studio is the importation of all the necessary materials from overseas . The cost of materials is quite high , and the shipping expenses add to the financial burden . Approximately 90 percent of the materials I supply for my classes are shipped from the mainland USA . This includes everything from the clay and glaze to the kiln and even replacement elements and tools . The process of obtaining clay locally in Talofofo or Ordot is cumbersome and time-consuming ,” he said .
Kongolo considers himself fortunate to have found a community that embraces pottery and is passionate about learning and creating . “ The immense joy I witness on my students ’ faces when they produce a final product in just 90 minutes is incredibly rewarding . It ’ s what motivates me to wake up each morning and eagerly return to work ,” Kongolo said .
Guard , oil on canvas
Balancing the roles of an artist and a teacher is not a simple task . “ I typically carve out time for my artistic endeavors when I ’ m not teaching , although it can be quite challenging . I often find the mornings , when teaching demands are lower , to be the most conducive for my creative work ,” he said .
Kongolo ’ s teaching philosophy revolves around teaching the skills necessary for students to explore the intricacies of pottery . “ Pottery involves a depth of understanding that often surprises people who step into the studio for the first time . The level of engagement can differ significantly between students who are merely curious and those who have a genuine desire to delve deeper into the world of pottery ,” he said .
Looking ahead , Kongolo aspires to see more pottery on the streets of Guam , reviving traditional pottery that has been forgotten . He envisions The Potter ’ s Studio Guam becoming a hub for Guam ’ s artistic revival , not only for the local community but also for tourists seeking a connection to the island ’ s cultural heritage .