From 9th to 16th August 2024, the Kigali Genocide Memorial hosted the ‘Cultivating Peace’ exhibition, a poignant showcase of art dedicated to fostering reconciliation and unity in Rwanda.
Featuring a diverse array of artworks narrating stories of loss, resilience and hope, the exhibition included work by nine Rwandan artists who are part of Modern Art Dynamic Space Kigali (MADS Kigali), along with pieces from artists from around the World who are part of the Artnauts Art Collective.
‘Cultivating Peace’, according to the Artnauts curatorial statement, “expresses peace principles that center on the idea of peace as an active pursuit, one that must be nurtured and cultivated in order to have an everlasting effect. The exhibition and related activities are a means to initiate dialogue and form relationships.”
“We are honoured to host an exhibition that focuses on envisioning a future free from war and conflict, a theme that deeply resonates with our mission,” the Aegis Trust’s Country Director Alphonse Munyantwali commented at the exhibition’s launch. “This exhibition strengthens our collective commitment to promoting values that foster understanding and champion humanity.”
Visitors to the exhibition expressed deep appreciation for the initiative. One attendee, Angel Ukase, remarked, “This exhibition has shown me how art can communicate complex emotions and ideas. It’s not just about what we see on the canvas but the stories, histories, and hopes behind the art.”
“Participating in this exhibition was significant as it allowed us to engage with our country’s history and contribute to a peaceful future,” says Kenneth Nkusi, one of the artists featured. “The audience’s engagement and turnout were promising signs of our exhibition’s impact.”
Through visual storytelling, these artists have contributed to Rwanda’s ongoing journey of reconciliation, proving that creative expression can be a powerful tool for peace-building and social transformation.
