Local artists using art to promote agriculture
Saturday, December 19, 2020

Four local artists, Jim Rolland, Isaac Iirumva, Jean Baptiste Rukundo, and Moise Niyogakiza have completed the creation of a new public art installation reflecting innovations in agriculture. The artists chose to contribute their skills and talents towards this community-based project to bring more art and public awareness to the surrounding community.

Located in Kacyiru, Gasabo district, the mural painting reflects themes of climate consciousness and environmentalism, and the growing notion of One Health, in which plants, animals, and human health are all integrated.

The project was led by Kurema, Kureba, Kwiga, a Rwandese social-enterprise focused on using street-arts and art-actions to engage civil society in creating positive social change and Israel’s Embassy in Rwanda.

The partnership of the duo unfolded into a medium-size, public and mural painting that portrays how the modernization of agriculture leads to community prosperity and development.

According to Kurema Kureba Kwiga, the artwork’s message emphasizes that the local agricultural practices is developed to protect the environment for the progressive, healthy future of the planet.

Additionally, the artwork seeks to honor the labor force behind the essential agricultural sector, bringing positive attention to the agro-production industry while also visualizing some Israeli Agro-innovations.

The innovations include AI and drone technology, modern irrigation systems, kitchen gardens, and many others.

It is not the first time Israel’s Embassy in Rwanda has promoted the local creative industry. For instance, recently, they launched Twende Jerusalem, translated as ‘we go to Jerusalem’, - an initiative seeking to promote youth talents in critical socio-cultural aspects including performing arts.

Gospel singer Israel Mbonyi was chosen to be the pioneer of this initiative, whereby together with his band he will perform in Israel in April next year.