'Comforts Of Heritage' Exhibition

International Sun 27-07-2008

'Comforts Of Heritage' Exhibition
By AfricanColours.com

Text by Maria Onyegbule
Images by Andrew Njoroge/AfricanColours.com

During my artist residency in Nairobi I have tried to explore ideas through non-figurative forms, something I have always used within previous bodies of work. In two of the paintings I have used female silhouettes/shapes. Concepts are explored through decorative shapes, forms and colour.

Concepts are less obvious leaving the viewer to interact with the painting, forming ones own conclusion. The paintings speak of culture, tradition, ways of life that are so natural passed onto future generations. The Moon gives strength in many cultures, crops are planted during the full moon, an animal born during the full moon is said to be strong and will produce good offspring.

The young Maasai is prepared for his transition to Manhood during the full moon, this will ensure that the young man will be strong and bold. Four of the paintings entitled ‘journey of the Moon 1-2-3-4” were influenced by this Maasai tradition, the colours represent their closeness to the earth, the landscape changes as the boy grows from child to young man.

The path trails within the paintings are the boy’s journey or the umbilical cord between the child and family that gradually becomes less supportive as the boy becomes man.

The residency has now come to an end and I have completed this small body of work, but the ideas and development of artwork will continue on my return to the UK as I feel Kenya has inspired me tremendously.

'Comforts of heritage' exhibition opened at RaMoMa, Rahimtullah Museum of modern art, Nairobi on Friday 25th July 2008, attracting a crowd of art supporters and enthusiasts within Nairobi. The exhibition ends on 31st July 2008.

H.E Chijioke Wigwe, the Nigerian High Commissioner was at hand to support Maria at the opening of the exhibition.

Maria Onyegbule addressing invited guests at the opening of her show "Comforts of Heritage" at the Ramoma Museum of modern art. On her left is Maggie Otieno, the projects manager at AfricanColours.com

Elkana Ongesa, the guest of honour, officially opened the exhibition

The artist, showing her work to H.E the Nigerian High Commissioner and Elkana Ongesa

Mary Collis (right) Chairperson-RaMoMA, sharing a word with Roger Steadman and his wife.

Will Janssen, Hivos country co-ordinator, Khamis Ramadhan, Photographer and Patrick Muiruri of Reuters at the show.

Julia Ekong (left) Business Development Advisor, AfricanColours shairing a moment with guest Paulina George

Posted By: AfricanColours

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