Local artists Henry Munyaneza, Joel Imbabarire and Jean-Paul Mugisha are currently presenting their art exhibition titled ‘Heritage’, which portrays the cultural significance of cattle rearing. Set up at Neza-h Art Space in Kiyovu, the multi-dimensional collection that started on September 30 running to October 14 combines painting and pyrography art (a creative art form used for drawing personalised designs onto natural wood surfaces). ALSO READ: Teen artist on drawing skills that pay the rent, becoming self-sufficient “This captivating collection explores experiences of living in cattle farms, and the essence of rearing cattle, a thing that played a significant role in Rwandan history and continues to be an important part of the country’s agricultural sector and rural livelihoods,” Imbabarire said. The exhibition was inspired by the life of Munyaneza as a herder at the age of 12 in Huye and Nyamagabe. ALSO READ: Local painter reassures light of hope for survivors through art He recalls growing up in a rural setting and rearing cattle, an experience he said still holds a special place in his heart. Through this collection, Munyaneza aims to convey the profound sense of peace and the significance of cattle in his life. Visiting Bigogwe in May and capturing pictures of cattle was the catalyst for his sketches, ultimately leading to the exhibition. “Crafting these paintings, and piling a collection wasn’t only a reminder of my childhood, but also a way to keep stress at bay,” Munyaneza noted. The painter emphasised that certain life experiences hold immeasurable value. He reminisced about the joy he found in spending time with cattle, such as waking up early to lead them to graze, milking the cows, and feeding the calves. He also noted that historically, cattle held cultural and economic significance in Rwanda. For instance, cattle were considered a symbol of wealth and social status, and they played a central role in traditional ceremonies, dowries, and various cultural practices. According to Imbabarire, cattle were also used for agricultural purposes, such as ploughing fields and providing manure for fertilisation. Overall, cattle rearing in Rwanda has evolved over time, reflecting changes in social, economic, and political contexts. The artists believe that although agriculture has faced challenges, the sector remains important for rural livelihoods, food security, and economic development in the country. The paintings focus on intricate details, texture, and vibrant colours to convey a sense of animation and nostalgia. The artists who took two months to prepare for the exhibition are showcasing 16 art pieces, each of them displaying four paintings.
