Ismaila Putuenchi, a bronze caster born in Foumban in western Cameroon, is the head of a guild of about 25 families who traditionally make bronzes for the Sultan’s palace.

After he was invited by Henning Christoph in 2015 to exhibit his work at the Soul of Africa Museum in Germany, Putuenchi began to expand his motifs to include artistic statements on contemporary themes.

His current works show fantastic motifs, which on the one hand testify to his tremendous competence as a craftsman, but above all reveal his great artistic talent. In addition, there is a clear political statement: Crucified gorillas, which announce the sell-out of nature and climate change, the problems surrounding HIV or the wealth of gods and spirit beings – all this and more is reflected in Putuenchi’s works.

In Putuenchi’s direct environment, this success also arouses envy. Some friends from back then call him a sorcerer today.