Using visual arts to fight HIV stigma

A new initiative to enable people affected by HIV/AIDS fight stigma in the country through visual arts has been designed.The initiative dubbed, Kurema, Kureba, Kwiga, loosely translated as “To Create, To See, To Learn,” is developed in a way of using visual arts for young people affected by the virus to express themselves and fight stigma.It will be formally launched this weekend, according to authorities behind the initiative.Judith Kaine, the brain behind the new project, said she partnered with artists from Ivuka Arts Kigali, Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC), and Kigali Hope Association to design the strategy.“The goal of the initiative is to use public art to start conversations, share personal experiences, and soften perspectives,” she said in a statement.“Through art, we can engage civil society and address stigma and discrimination, all while putting more colour and positive health messages into the every day lives of Rwandans.”ActivitiesSeveral youths affected with the virus have, this month, participated in creative workshops and made inspiring works of art using different ‘public art’ and ‘street art’ methods, based on a variety of themes depicting positive living.“These works, plus a range of art-making activities and creative performances, will be featured at the project’s first public art exhibition this Saturday [tomorrow].”Beyond the first exhibition, the project will continue with a variety of new public art installations and showcases, beginning with a large mural being painted on the side of the RBC building, to be unveiled on the international World Aids Day on December 1.“The project has been well received by partners in the government and in the local and international community, garnering interest from the United Nations, embassies, and the support of many businesses,” Kaine said.“The exhibition, this weekend, will surely be a thought-provoking and fun event that will help the project raise funds to continue making works of public art in Kigali and beyond.”

National

Using visual arts to fight HIV stigma