Pursuing Art Professionally

“Being an artist means being free to express your personality through art; there is no must in art, because art is freedom.”- Wassily Kandisky, one of the first creators of pure abstraction in modern art. While exploring the beauty of Rwandan art, Collin Sekajugo’s is mission is to “use art to change lives.” Over the last two years, these words have become more than just a credo for the self-taught 28, year old artist, established Ivuka Arts Kigali. A painter by profession, Sekajugo’s own work explores how light, shadow, color and texture interacts to make his subject rise “off the canvas”. Besides Ivuka Art Studio, his artwork holds the distinction of being displayed in various public and corporate collections, and is featured both at Meredith Laing Studios (Bel Air, California) and the prestigious Gallery Watatu (Nairobi, Kenya). Innocent Nkurunziza, 24 is an upcoming painter in the Ivula Art Studio. “Art is a lifestyle and a profession, and being an artist is a decision that requires a high level of commitment,” Nkurunziza said. “It’s a natural talent that many choose to kill because they are discouraged by parents or because they never had the chance to develop their talents,” he said. For Emma Tutu, another painter, art portrays culture and talent. “Just like any other profession, we aim at making sure that we leave a land mark in the world. It’s very important as an artist to choose your style and also know your audience and where your art will sell,” Tutu said. Tutu added that, “if one puts this into consideration then they will sell like hot cake and trust me art is lucrative if you take your time and love what you do.” Ends