In Kwele, King Paris presents a heart-shaped kwele mask rendered with a gentle smile, set against a luxurious tan damask background. The mask radiates warmth, joy, and a sense of instant connection, an invitation for the viewer to feel love, gratitude, and emotional openness.

Originating from the Kwele people of Gabon and the Republic of Congo, heart-shaped masks (or bihongo) were traditionally used in ceremonies meant to honor the spirit world and promote social harmony. They were believed to channel positive energy, inspire community, and cultivate compassion, often worn by dancers to uplift and protect the village.

Through his composition, Paris magnifies the emotive power of the mask, isolating it in a contemporary, almost sacred space while preserving its spiritual vitality. The smiling heart becomes more than an artifact, it is a living symbol of joy, generosity, and the enduring ability of Kwele art to transform emotion into form.