rwanda's creative scene: a force to be reckoned with in 2023
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Loading... - Aaron Uwimana
- 23 Feb 2023
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Yesterday, I had the privilege of experiencing an incredibly impactful art installation: the "On Terraced Earth" exhibit created by the artist Innocent Nkurunziza and curated by the art historian Talia Lieber.
Located on a terraced peninsula on Lake Ruhondo, the exhibit was crafted entirely from natural materials such as rocks, clay, and tree bark. Not only was it aesthetically pleasing, but it also emphasised the importance of preserving and conserving the environment. This exhibit was a powerful demonstration of the strength of Rwanda's creative scene in 2023 and we're only in the first month of the year.
Rwanda has always been known for its rich and vibrant culture, with a wealth of traditional art forms, craftsmanship, music, and dance passed down through generations. However, what truly sets the creative scene apart today is the new generation of creatives who are breathing fresh life into these traditions, creating something truly unique and authentic. Rwandan artists are not just creating beautiful, aesthetically pleasing pieces, but also deeply meaningful, something that reflects the country's identity and emotions.
After 2 years of curfew and lockdowns, the creative scene, like all of our social lives, was greatly affected. But as restrictions lifted, it was as if a window was opened, and a vibrant cultural scene burst forth once more. Cultural events in 2022 were popping up everywhere, filling the void of connection and community that had been missed. Some of the performances I attended in 2022 left a profound impact on me, and gave me a glimpse into the creative scene of 2023 as well as an insight into the promising future of Rwanda's creative scene.
One particularly notable event I attended in 2022 was Michael Makembe's performance at the French Institute of Kigali, which seamlessly blended traditional and contemporary elements in a captivating and memorable way. As an audio cultural music archivist and beatmaker, Makembe brought fishermen from the Western Province to the city to perform with him. These fishermen, who typically sing on boats while they fish, were able to showcase their talents and cultural traditions in a unique setting. The fusion of Makembe's contemporary beats with the traditional singing of the fishermen on the boats of Lake Kivu was truly a one-of-a-kind experience. This performance not only highlighted the rich cultural heritage of the fishermen but also served as a powerful reminder that contemporary music can find inspiration from local cultures. Read More…
