Artists chart ways to revamp sector

Artists and music enthusiasts convened at Inema Arts Centre on Thursday to discuss how they can revamp the arts sector. On the panel were renowned Rwandan artists Carole Karemera, Wesley Ruzibiza and Abdul Majyambere, and Maija Rivenburg, an arts activist.

Friday, February 17, 2017

Artists and music enthusiasts convened at Inema Arts Centre on Thursday to discuss how they can revamp the arts sector.

On the panel were renowned Rwandan artists Carole Karemera, Wesley Ruzibiza and Abdul Majyambere, and Maija Rivenburg, an arts activist.

Carole Karemera was among the panelists at the ‘Reclaiming Arts’ event on Thursday. / File

Artists called for a policy to support the sector.

"Veteran artists have been struggling to present art in the reconstruction of the country. In a country that is developing fast, art is what helps us define who we are and where we belong. Art is society,” Carole Karemera of the Ishyo Arts Centre said.

Rivenberg noted that although Rwanda has a lot of talent, it is not recognised in the country yet, and called for the education sector to put in place and implement a national arts curriculum in schools to raise a generation of talented artists.

Musician Hope Irakoze and his band gave a heartwarming performance for art lovers who turned up in the evening as they shared drinks.

Sheilagh Neilson, the Country Director of British Council, said that all the people in the arts have a key role to challenge and influence society in its thinking and inspire others because of the importance of art in society.

Local poet Naleli Rugege recited her artistic poems, while Comedian Arthur was also there to share his rib cracking jokes.

The event aimed at giving chance to Rwandan artists to discuss ways in which art in Rwanda can be revamped and appreciated in society.

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