Masque chala (2019) Painting by Bantema

BANTEMA was born on December 23, 1963 in Djougou, in the north of BENIN.
Very young he did a training of stylist. From his childhood, his father interested him in the traditions of African masks and the culture of shells called "CAURIS" in West Africa.
These shells and masks that are part of the culture and tradition of BENIN made him want to discover new horizons. The shells and masks are a revelator for universe he has the passion to discover.
That's what led him to leave his village to join the BENINOISE army,
He is first assigned as a soldier in the presidential guard, with the idea of perfecting himself.
A little later, he leaves his native country for Germany. He wants to discover Western culture. Francophone, He learns German and takes the course at the University of DAMTOR - Hamburg, and also makes a short stay in EINDHOVEN, in the Netherlands.
In 2000, he arrived in Paris and perfected himself in drawing and painting. Then, he specializes in acrylic, under the influence of his ancestors and his origins. He gives life to masks and shells on canvas whose bright colors reflect his experience and his hopes.

• Nationality: FRANCE
• Date of birth : 1963
• Artistic domains:
• Groups: Contemporary French Artists