The artistic landscape of Kampala, Uganda, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades, marked by a surge in the number of commercial art galleries and a growing recognition of emerging artists.
This evolution is exemplified by the experiences of Lilian Nabulime, a talented sculptor whose journey reflects the changing dynamics of the art scene in the Ugandan capital.
From the scarcity of exhibition spaces in the 1990s to the present-day proliferation of galleries, the story of Nabulime and her peers underscores the burgeoning opportunities and challenges within Kampala’s artistic community.
In the 1990s, Kampala was home to only one commercial art gallery, a modest venue that posed significant barriers to entry for emerging artists.
Nabulime vividly recalls this era, where the scarcity of exhibition spaces made it arduous for artists to showcase their work and gain recognition.
The limited avenues for exposure stifled the creative potential of many talented individuals, hindering the growth of the local art scene. However, this period also laid the groundwork for the resilience and determination that would characterize the aspirations of future artists in Kampala.
Fast forward to the present day, and the artistic landscape of Kampala has undergone a remarkable metamorphosis.
The emergence of multiple commercial art galleries, including at least six in the city, signifies a paradigm shift in the accessibility and visibility of artistic expression.
These galleries have become vital platforms for artists to exhibit their work, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures creativity and innovation.
Nabulime’s experience at Xenson Art Space serves as a testament to the newfound opportunities that artists can now access.
Her initiative in approaching the gallery and securing an exhibition reflects a proactive approach to overcoming the challenges that once hindered artistic expression in Kampal
Nabulime’s account encapsulates the spirit of empowerment and agency that defines the contemporary art scene in Kampala. No longer confined by the limitations of a single gallery, artists now have the agency to seek out opportunities and advocate for their work.
The shift from a passive acceptance of limited exhibition spaces to an active pursuit of artistic visibility speaks to the evolving mindset of artists in Kampala.
This transformation has not only expanded the horizons of individual artists but has also enriched the cultural fabric of the city, fostering a more inclusive and diverse artistic community
Despite the remarkable progress, challenges persist within Kampala’s art scene. The burgeoning number of galleries brings with it a heightened competition for visibility and recognition.
Emerging artists face the daunting task of navigating this increasingly crowded landscape, where securing exhibition spaces requires strategic networking and a deep understanding of the evolving dynamics of the art market.
Moreover, the proliferation of galleries also raises questions about the sustainability of the art ecosystem and the equitable distribution of resources and opportunities among artists.
Looking ahead, the future of art in Kampala holds immense promise and potential. The increasing visibility of artists like Nabulime and the growing appetite for diverse artistic expressions reflect a burgeoning cultural renaissance in the city.
As the art scene continues to evolve, there is a pressing need for collaborative efforts among artists, galleries, and cultural institutions to ensure that the growth is inclusive and sustainable.
Initiatives that prioritize mentorship, skill development, and equitable access to resources will be pivotal in nurturing the next generation of artists and sustaining the vibrancy of Kampala’s art community.
The transformation of Kampala’s art scene, as exemplified by the experiences of Lilian Nabulime, underscores the resilience, creativity, and dynamism of the city’s artistic community.
From the scarcity of exhibition spaces in the 1990s to the present-day proliferation of galleries, the journey of artists in Kampala reflects a narrative of growth, opportunity, and evolving aspirations.
As the city continues to embrace its cultural heritage and foster an environment conducive to artistic expression, the future of art in Kampala holds the promise of continued innovation, diversity, and inclusivity.
In the words of Nabulime, “For me, I just decided and said, ‘Let me go and exhibit my work.’” This spirit of determination and agency encapsulates the ethos of Kampala’s art scene, where artists are carving their paths and shaping the city’s cultural identity through their creative endeavors.
As the art scene continues to flourish, Kampala stands poised to become a beacon of artistic vitality and a testament to the transformative power of creativity.
The ongoing solo exhibition, scheduled to run until December 20th, serves as a prime example of the burgeoning artistic landscape, providing a platform for local artists who have historically grappled with limited exposure.
Nabulime, an esteemed sculpture instructor at a prestigious art institution in Kampala, stands as one among a growing cohort of artists whose expansive body of work contributes to a palpable sense of excitement among curators within the realm of Ugandan art.
Their collective enthusiasm reflects a broader trend across the African continent, driven not only by a surge in captivating new artistic expressions but also by the increasing capacity of curators hailing from Africa to connect with fresh cohorts of collectors amidst a period of heightened global interest in contemporary African art.
This burgeoning momentum is underscored by recent developments, such as the Ivorian painter Aboudia emerging as the world’s top-selling artist in 2022, outperforming even the renowned Damien Hirst, as per the Hiscox Artist Top 100 survey.
Furthermore, in a groundbreaking auction in November, a piece by Ethiopian-born artist Julie Mehretu fetched a staggering $10.7 million, setting a new record for an African artist.
In conjunction with events like the annual Art Auction East Africa in Kenya, which serves as a platform for the valuation and potential rediscovery of deceased and living artists, the most ambitious curators from Africa are now officially accredited to participate in influential gatherings such as Art Basel, further solidifying the continent’s growing prominence in the global art scene.
The art scene in Uganda has been growing in recent years, with more gallerists and curators emerging to showcase the work of talented artists.
As Daudi Karungi, founder of Kampala’s Afriart Gallery, notes, nurturing artists from their early stages to a level of professionalism where their work is accessible to global collectors is a challenging task.
However, with the right support, artists in Uganda have been able to gain international visibility, with some even achieving six-figure sales at auction in Europe.
One key element in giving artists in Uganda international visibility is through the participation of gallerists in art fairs abroad.
These events provide an opportunity for artists to showcase their work to a wider audience and connect with potential buyers.
Additionally, training programs for artists, such as those run by Afriart Gallery, help to develop their skills and increase their chances of success in the art world.
Another important aspect of the art scene in Uganda is the role of curators. As artist Nabulime notes, having more curators who are well connected is crucial for increasing the amount of work from Uganda on the international market.
Curators can help to connect artists with potential buyers and promote their work in a variety of ways.
While the art scene in Uganda is still relatively small, it is growing rapidly. The country’s prominent art school at Makerere University has played a pivotal role in educating artists and promoting intellectual engagement within the art community.
However, the collecting class in Uganda remains small, with most sales coming from outside the country. Gallerists are still struggling to make sales, relying on collectors who may discover their work through promotional materials.
Despite these challenges, the future looks bright for the art scene in Uganda. With the support of gallerists, curators, and training programs, talented artists are gaining visibility on the international stage.
As more collectors discover the unique and vibrant work coming out of Uganda, the country’s art scene is sure to continue to grow and thrive.
The article highlights the growing interest in art and the emergence of a vibrant art scene in Uganda. It also sheds light on the efforts of the Contemporary Art Society of Uganda to promote the collection of Ugandan artworks and support emerging artists.
The society’s goal to encourage private and corporate art collections in Uganda is commendable, as it not only provides opportunities for artists but also contributes to the preservation of Africa’s unique cultural resources.
The sentiment expressed by Ugandan attorney Linda Mutesi regarding the importance of retaining Africa’s cultural heritage through art collection is particularly poignant.
Her emphasis on the African middle class awakening to the beauty and significance of their surroundings, as well as the need to prevent the exodus of art and intellectual property from the continent, resonates deeply.
The formation of the Contemporary Art Society of Uganda represents a proactive step towards preserving and promoting Ugandan art within the country.
By encouraging local collectors to support Ugandan artists and build art collections, the society is fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the nation’s cultural heritage.
This initiative not only bolsters the art scene in Uganda but also contributes to the broader narrative of African art and its place in the global market.
The article underscores the shifting dynamics of art appreciation and collection in Uganda, signaling a positive trend towards recognizing art as an attractive investment option.
The efforts of the Contemporary Art Society of Uganda and the voices advocating for the preservation of African art are crucial in shaping the narrative around art and cultural heritage on the continent.
In conclusion, the emergence of the Contemporary Art Society of Uganda and the growing interest in art collection among Ugandans signify a promising development for the country’s art scene.
The efforts to retain and promote Ugandan art as a valuable cultural resource are essential in safeguarding the nation’s artistic legacy and contributing to the broader discourse on African art.