Stories From a Daydream

Stories From A Daydream

Lio Bravo Bumbakini

October 8th – October 31st

In his first major solo-exhibition, Stories From A Daydream Lio invites viewers into an immersive installation that speaks to cultural and individual identity, as well as exploring the impacts of globalization on indigenous communities. Lio is from Kuba (Bayaka) heritage which traces its heritage back native Pygmies inhabiting the thickest portions of lush rainforests and jungles of what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo. His experience as a man of color in America, his Euro-centric upbringing in triage with his strong African roots are facets of his life that greatly influence his work. Stories From A Daydream touches on colonial exploration, environmental degradation, identity, and class. He delves into existentialism, and the impacts of globalization on cultural identity through canvas works and large-scale installations. Stories From a Daydream draws from Lio’s daydreams and thoughts and transports viewers into a fantastical experience.

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Lio Bumbakini is a self-taught artist who paints the modern experience in swaths of folkloric imagery inspired by his African descent (Congo-Zaire) and Euro-Centric (Belgian) upbringing. His works range from paintings, drawings, and mixed media work to digital and performative installations.

Lio has been creating, performing, and hosting experiences in the greater Denver area for close to a decade. To date Lio has had numerous showcases, has participated in a list of group exhibitions and has contributed to several public art projects. You may have run across his work through art festivals including Denver Design Week, Crush Walls (RiNo Art District), and Streetwise Arts (Boulder). Recently, Lio completed Urban Outfitters first artist residency – helping pioneer an initiative that will be recreated nationally – and also collaborated with MTV to get out the vote. He is currently reeling from the success and experience of completing his Art Can Residency at the Ramble Hotel, in Denver’s bustling RiNo Art District.

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Public Hours: Thursdays through Sundays, 12:00pm – 6:00pm.

Opening Reception: Friday, October 8th, 6:00pm – 9pm.

Understudy is free-to-visit and open to all. We are located at the Colorado Convention Center / Theatre District light rail stop near 14th and Stout. Look for the Shantell Martin art bench.