MoMA: Bodys Isek Kingelez's (b. Congo 1908) CITY DREAMS - Seems a Mini Me to NYC

Bodys Isek Kingelez's imaginative and detailed futuristic architectural structures comprise the first ever solo show of a Black African Artist.  Kingelez (b Belgian Congo 1948-2015)  was an autodidactic artist.   Now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the country was under colonial rule from the late 19th C and under Belgian rule from 1908-1960.  Working in then-Zaire (Central Cong 1971-1997) Kingelez didn't leave the country until 1989.  Kingelez architectural sculptures "extreme maquettes" appear to represent a colorful, sci-fi society.  The unique and detailed sculptures represent a kaleidoscope of bright colors & unique shapes that overall appear as a magical, theatrical amusement park of the future.   I didn't get a sense of a utopian society but rather a disinfectant surreal paradigm that felt cold & uninhabitable.  There are no signs of life or vegetation.  Still, I enjoyed the splendor of his creative shapes and utilization of mundane materials and vibrant metalic substances.  The miniaturized panoply of architectural buildings are amusing and constructed with technical artistry.  This is exhibit is worth making a detour to see but doesn't drive a destined visit.  Perhaps, the appeal will be greater on Lilliputians, children or doll house devotees.  Note the names & locations on the buildings are handwritten by Kingelez.  Once outside the MoMA I was struck by parallels between Kingelez's seemingly fantasy architecture echoed in the ever changing & growing surrounding metropolis area.