Monthly Archives: October 2021

Dates: Until December 31, 2021

Venue: the Nairobi Gallery

Entry: Museum Rates Apply

About

The National Museums of Kenya (NMK) is hosting and curating a series of exhibitions as a precursor to the launch of the National Art Gallery of Kenya (NAGOK). The aim is to provide a platform for dialogue on the need for a NAGOK and a glimpse of what to expect once NAGOK is open to the public: a combination of Kenya’s finest contemporary artists, in addition to historically significant pieces from NMK permanent collection.

The first exhibition in this series, titled ‘Marejeo: Renaissance of a Vision’, ran from 8 July to 8 August. ‘Marejeo’ means the ultimate goal for which something is done, in Kiswahili. The exhibition was part of a project funded by the government through the Department of Culture to celebrate the International year of Creative Economy for Sustainable Development. It included an artists residency that brought 40 emerging young artists from 26 counties in Kenya. The young artists were mentored by pioneer Kenyan contemporary artists who led the most significant campaign in Kenya for a NAGOK from 1979 to 1981. The exhibition included artworks from the residency from this residency alongside works by pioneer artists, and selected works from NMK permanent collection.

Marejeo: Renaissance of a Vision II, showcases pioneer artists Kibacia Gatu, Zarina Patel, Haajambi Kangára, Sukuro Etale and collections in The Nairobi Gallery from artists, Annabelle Reeno, Elkana Ongesa among others.

Organised by the National Visual Arts Organising Committee, Department of Culture, Ministry of Sports, Culture and Heritage, and the National Museums of Kenya