New art exhibition on empowering artists kicks off today
Thursday, September 15, 2022
Abdoul Rwigema, one of the organisers and exhibitors. Courtesy photo.

Four visual artists including renowned muralist, Abdoul Rwigema, are set to showcase portraits and art pieces during an exhibition that aims to empower young players in the art sector.

The exhibition which kicks off today September 16 and will run till 30, was organised by Isaiee Niyomugabo, Muhire Ygo, Erico Imanishimwe and Rwigema. It will be held at Indiba Art Space located in Kimihurura, Kigali.

Dubbed 'Igihomoro', the exhibition according to Rwigema, will portray the journey of young artists who are denied to pursue their career in the art sector.

"Growing up, most of us were described as Ibihomora, a word used to identify savage people or gangs in Kinyarwanda. We struggled to make art without support from parents, and this exhibition will showcase those hardships with the use of art,” Rwigema told The New Times, adding that the exhibition will as well empower young talented artists to overcome those challenges

Rwigema also noted that the exhibition aims at encouraging people who studied art to work with self-taught artists to boost the sector.

"Apart from me, the other three collaborators on this exhibition are students of Nyundo School. This shows how both art students can work with self-taught ones and make something impactful for the art industry,” said Rwigema.

During the exhibition, 18 art pieces will be showcased and people at the exhibition will be allowed to buy portraits of their choice.

Rwigema has made himself a household name in the art industry of Rwanda. He is best known for organizing different art exhibitions including 'Umugore W’umusazi' art exhibition which honored women’s resilience.

The renowned artist rose to stardom after painting a mural of Jay Polly, Rwandan hip-hop legend who died last year, on the streets of Kigali.