Rwandan visual artist Jean-Baptiste Rukundo on Friday, July 5, held a solo exhibition dubbed "Shapes 'N Shadows," taking art enthusiasts through complexities of identity and various ways people perceive and shape each other.
The exhibition took place at L'Espace, a new cultural hub located in Kimihurura.
As an expressionist artist, Rukundo utilizes recycled materials like plastic bottles and metal caps to create sculptures that reflect the nuanced perceptions of individuals.
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"The exhibition&039;s objective is to challenge harmful stereotypes, promote conversations, and humanize marginalized identities, encouraging visitors to confront their biases and appreciate the beauty of individuality,” Rukundo said.
According to the artist, "Shapes 'N Shadows" serves as a metaphorical exploration of identity, shaped by light and darkness, influenced by factors such as gender, sexuality, culture, and personal experiences.
"Identities are complex and multifaceted. In Rwanda, many important topics remain taboo, often viewed through a religious lens, limiting understanding and perpetuating harmful norms. This exhibition aims to shed light on these issues and reimagine identity in its fluidity and complexity," Rukundo explained
One of the inspirations for his work came from his interactions with a transgender, highlighting the complexity of identity and societal judgments.
"Meeting someone who challenged society's views on identity inspired me deeply, their courage taught me that being true to yourself is powerful and it is about more than just identity, it is about strength and embracing who you truly are."
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Rukundo’s art pieces are priced at around Rwf 1,000,000 each, reflecting their uniqueness and the effort involved in their creation.
He said that "Shapes &039;N Shadows" is more than just an exhibition.
"It's a call to action, inviting all to see, hear, and celebrate every individual for who they truly are.”
The exhibition was designed to be interactive, featuring collaborative works and discussions that invite visitors to share their thoughts on human identity. This approach fosters dialogue, reflection, empathy, understanding, and solidarity, paving the way for a more inclusive and compassionate society.
Ratifah Uwitonze, who does the scripts for Rukundo’s art, explained the therapeutic aspects of art, highlighting its role in mental health healing.
"There are times when individuals may struggle to express their feelings verbally but can easily convey their emotions through drawing art provides a powerful tool for mental health healing, offering personal freedom and a trusted canvas to express thoughts and emotions,” Uwitonze said.
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Jonathan Colin, one of the visitors who works with the Colombian foundation Más Arte Más Acción, said that art goes beyond languages and cultures, reaching everyone with its messages and feelings.
"Artistes use their work to simplify complex ideas, making them understandable to all kinds of people. Whether through music, paintings, or stories, artists can make us think, feel for others, and motivate us to do something meaningful,” he said.
He said that he finds the Rwandan art exhibition very moving and powerful, with subtle yet strong political messages.
"This exhibition, which I found deeply moving and powerful, combines subtlety with strength, delivering powerful messages about power dynamics and relationships. There&039;s a strong political undertone, yet the artist's use of paint and collage creates a beautiful language that captures feelings beyond words,” he noted.