Works on paper produced during my art residency in Casa Tagumerche on La Gomera Island in August 2022

In this series of paintings, Tribambuka delves into the enigmatic world of cats, creatures that exude unapologetic arrogance and an unwavering sense of self. The feline subjects, seemingly indifferent to expectations and desires, challenge viewers to reconsider the boundaries imposed upon them and the profound independence they embody.

Drawing inspiration from the bold geometric forms of analytical cubism and the revolutionary spirit of Russian avant-garde art, Tribambuka captures the essence of these cats in a visual language that mirrors their complexity. Just as cubism shattered conventional perspectives, allowing observers to see beyond the surface, these paintings unveil the multifaceted nature of these feline personalities. Through fragmented forms and intersecting planes, Tribambuka deconstructs and reconstructs the feline figure, inviting viewers to explore the layers of identity and autonomy that cats effortlessly exude. The sharp angles and bold colors reflect the intensity of their presence, while the dissonant compositions evoke the ever-elusive and unpredictable nature of these captivating creatures.

In a world that often seeks to domesticate and categorize, these paintings challenge observers to embrace the spirit of independence and self-determination, not just in feline companions but within themselves. As viewers observe these confident cats, they are encouraged to question the boundaries that define them and to celebrate the beauty of asserting their own identities, just as these cats do. Through this exploration of the intersection between arrogance, attitude, and autonomy, Tribambuka's work provokes introspection and admiration for the enigmatic world of cats, allowing observers to appreciate the harmonious chaos of their existence and, in turn, find inspiration for their own.

‘I Am Home’ is an exhibition that presents a selection of drawings, limited edition prints and mixed media sketchbooks that were created by invitation of a Portuguese gallery Atelier 3 I 3. These works are based on the themes of ‘Home’ and ‘Identity’ as well as the intersection and crossover between them. The project also includes a zine ‘Home’ and a mini zine ‘I Am’ created in collaboration with (and by invitation of) Atelier 3 I 3, Porto, Portugal. The exhibition took place in July-August 2019.

Tribambuka invites audiences to delve into the intricate layers of 'home' ,through an ambitious interactive exhibition at the Migration Museum in London. Curated by Aditi Anand, "Nowhere to go but anywhere" presents an immersive journey through the artist’s sketchbooks, encompassing drawings, collages, writing, found materials, printmaking experiments, animations, film, and photography.

"Home," a universal yet deeply personal concept, serves as the exhibition's thematic compass. Originating in 2019, the theme underwent a profound evolution, spurred by the forced limbo of the pandemic in 2020 and the tumultuous years that followed, with violent conflicts erupting across the globe that led to a collective feeling of the world, and all previous concepts of ‘home’, falling apart. This evolution scrutinises 'home' as both a sanctuary and a politicised, confining space, capturing the feeling of being a stranger everywhere and having to build one’s own ground anew, time and time again.

The exhibition contains several elements that unfold as an introspective journey. Its spectacular centrepiece takes the form of a suspended fabric house with an experimental video projection. The video work involves a variety of different techniques and sources, such as sketches, drawings, characters adapted from Tribambuka’s paintings and archival materials like old notes and newspaper fragments related to the artist’s personal history, thus providing an immersive insight into her internal world while also presenting the viewers with a universally relatable narrative around ‘home’.

The soundscape created by J.C. Wright within the suspended house installation weaves together multilingual voices from diverse London communities, exploring their interpretations of 'home.' Drawing inspiration from childhood games and protective rituals found in folklore, the exhibition house becomes a transformative space—inviting viewers to walk through it and experience a spectrum of emotions, from comfort to unease.

Flanking this focal piece are four monumental, eclectic mixed media works on canvas inspired by Salman Rushdie's ‘roots of self'—community, language, places, and customs — which are one of the key influences of the exhibition concept. Next to them, an interactive board invites inviting visitors to add their own reflections on the concept of ‘home’. These will eventually be collated and published by the artist in the form of a book, culminating in a final, collective narrative. Installed on the adjoining wall are six prints in Tribambuka’s distinctive, graphic style, effectively capturing the main narrative of the central installation in six compelling compositions.

Additionally, a limited-edition artist book made specifically for the exhibition, composed of Tribambuka's sketchbooks, writings, archival images and found materials that invite contemplation and reflecting the raw essence of the artist's studio.

Tribambuka’s "Nowhere to go but anywhere" presents a timely reflection on identity, inviting audiences to seek unity amidst shared experiences, traumas, and the universal pursuit of love and survival. Framed by opening and closing performances that formulate musical, poetic and movement-based responses to its central theme and visitor responses, the exhibition challenges perceptions, fosters introspection, and honours the enduring resilience of the human spirit in the quest for creating a 'home.

In the heart of La Gomera, where the arid volcanic soil meets the relentless sun and ceaseless winds, Tribambuka discovered a wellspring of inspiration not in the idyllic tropical landscapes but in the untamed, chaotic beauty of the island's native flora. Here, a remarkable story of struggle and resilience unfolds, embodied by the succulents and cacti that have adapted to the unforgiving environment.

The series of drawings and paintings on display is a homage to the unyielding spirit of these botanical survivors, whose roots burrow deep into the rugged terrain and whose leaves bear the wounds of relentless exposure to the sun. This collection, marked by Tribambuka's wild brushwork, vibrant colours, and expressive disorder, captures the essence of the relentless fight for life in La Gomera's arid expanse.

The succulents and cacti, often marginalized, hold a poignant narrative of resilience and adaptability. Tribambuka's brush and pencil strokes seek to encapsulate their tenacity, their forms twisting and contorting as they endure the island's most challenging conditions.

Through these works, Tribambuka explores the delicate equilibrium between fragility and strength, vulnerability within resilience, and the unforeseen beauty born from adversity. The art presented here is a reflection of life's enduring struggle, etched into the very fabric of La Gomera's volcanic soil.

With bold compositions and chaotic vibrancy, Tribambuka invites the audience to immerse themselves in this untamed world, bearing witness to nature's tenacious battle. As viewers contemplate these expressive depictions of nature's trials, they are encouraged to find inspiration in the courage of these wounded plants and, in doing so, establish a profound connection to the forces that shape their own existence.

One of my favourite things is to paint portraits of my friends when they pop by my studio, it creates a snapshot of the moment, of the conversation we're having and our connection.

Right to Rage embraces women’s anger as a cathartic and emancipatory force. Female anger in particular is traditionally embedded into patriarchal social narratives as a destructive and dangerous power that needs to be pacified and sublimated. Tribambuka instead makes us reconsider women’s rage as a sign of the violation of boundaries, a reaction to injustice and threat and to things that went wrong in the world, and a “dark” power to be unleashed and reckoned with.

Selection of works exploring what being a woman means. How to identify woman-ness without defining it via 'the other', not through serving, seducing or nurturing. Overcoming outer and, more importantly, inner restrictions. Breaking down, breaking out and breaking through. Inner power and outer softness. Three of these works were created for the all-female group show SHE /HER /HERS in Oakland Gallery in New Brighton, celebrating the International Woman's Month 2022.