Art lovers from varied parts of the world living in Rwanda spent an active artistic weekend evening last Saturday at Inema Arts Center during a glamorous event dubbed ‘Art Jam and October Showcase’.
Visitors got an opportunity to see fresh paintings and sculptures showcased in the gallery. They also had fan in live paintings and talked to resident artists about their creative works.
Maya was one of the revelers who said she had come to support Inema artists because of their work approach which is inclusive and touches the reality of people’s lives. “[The Inema Arts Center] is a place I feel comfortable to be and enjoy the good time,” she added.
Emmanuel Nkuranga, a visual artist and co-founder of Inema Center told Vijana FM that their motivation to organize the art jam was sharing talents and bringing together people from different cultures. “We are also proud of Rwandan culture,” he added.
The Inema Arts Center was founded in 2012 by two brothers, Emmanuel Nkuranga and Innocent Nkurunziza. It is a place for artists and art lovers to share thoughts and exchange ideas on creativity while showcasing art work and learning from others.
Mucyo is an artist who showcased his work. He said that the art jam gave him more confidence and the courage and trust in following his dream. He added that he draws inspirations from the people. “I also received feedback and criticism which is a support to my work,” he commented.
Inema Arts Center is known for its programs, projects and initiatives that aim to promote and expand creative arts from Rwanda.
The live performances from Inema Dance Troupe provided great entertainment throughout the evening whereby young Rwandan dancers and singers entertained the crowd by performing traditional dances and their news songs. The talented children also invited guests to dance with them, which revelers liked as they joined the Inema Troupe to dance Rwandan traditional songs.
Akaliza Gara is an art lover from Rwanda. She told Vijana FM that she enjoyed watching children performing and being surrounded by the beauties in the center’s art gallery. “I also particularly love Innocent Nkurunziza’s art work,” she added.
Vijana FM also talked to another visitor from the United States who preferred to be anonymous. He said that the dancing was awesome and loved the food: “It was also an opportunity for me to learn Rwandan culture”. He added that if he had the money, he could have bought some paintings done by Inema artists.
Art Jam and October Showcase was a perfect artistic celebration for art lovers in Kigali and the huge turnout proves the support, love and appreciation for Inema Centre’s artists.