LOCAL VISUAL ARTIST and muralist Abdul Rwigema, who rose to stardom after painting a mural of Jay Polly, is going to collaborate with Shingiro, a street artist, in a two -week art exhibition slated for March 2, at Itema Arts Space. Dubbed ‘Umugore wumusazi’, translated as ‘mad woman,’ the exhibition will focus on honouring womanhood, showcasing some of the challenges they face through art. Talking to this publication, Rwigema said that art can be used in tackling some of the challenges Rwandan families face, which is why he chose to use this exhibition to have a positive impact in society using paintings. The fast rising street artist also noted that women are important in society, and actions of degrading them shouldn’t be welcomed by any. Rwigema already has different murals on the streets of Kigali about womanhood such as the ‘African woman’ Mural located in Kanombe opposite Kigali international airport, ‘The Beauty and Astra Africanism ‘mural which is painted in KicukIro next to Mount Kenya University and many others. The artist further explained that the artworks which will be showcased during the exhibition address different things like violence against women, mental health struggles that women face and many others. “Art speaks more than words. If we all come together and invest in having a healthy community, many would heal their wounds,” Rwigema added, saying that art can be used in tackling different things. According to Shingiro, a street artist who will feature in the exhibition, this will be a space to connect and experience some of the best art pieces that they have been working on for a long time. “I am very happy to be part of this exhibition and to celebrate art with my fellow street artist. It is an empowering gesture for the future and the growth of the art industry in our community as well as street painters,” Shingiro added. ‘Mad woman’ exhibition will take place at Iteme Arts Space below Remera corner mall and it will be free to attend. Covid protocols will be observed.
