The History of Art in Rwanda
A little over a decade ago, during the terrible days that befell the country of a thousand hills, the world witnessed the passing of what may have been today’s Rwandan masters. Rwanda’s only major art school L’ecole d’art du Rwanda in Nyundo, Gisenyi was destroyed along with countless works of art that country’s contemporary cultural heritage.
With this single blow, the very institution that was to ensure the vatility of Rwandan art throughout the continent was snuffed out. And today, generally Rwandan contemporary art is practically unknown by the international comunnity.
But though the body was destroyed, the soul refused to die. The School's legacy, albeit diminished, continues to live on in some of its lesser-known apprentices namely; Karangwa, Pascal Bushaija, Felicien Bigira, Aimable Niyonzima, Laurent Hategekimana and others. But who knows their work? The are unexposed and underprivilleged.
The fact remains that it is exceptionally difficult for Rwandan artists to find success without the support of an institution that can hone their skills and provide a platform for their exposure. Clearly then, the time has come for a new body to be raised up and take on this challenge. The birth of Ivuka Arts Kigali.