Local visual artist Jemima Kakizi is organising her two-week art exhibition dubbed "At the entrance” that is slated for February12 to 26, at Kigali Soul Art gallery in Nyarutarama, Gasabo district.

The exhibition will feature eight female visual artists, namely: Angella Ilibagiza, Shemsa Neza, Crista Uwase, Lynka Lydie, Luladey T. Teshome, Gretta Ingabire, Louise Kanyange and Jemima Kakizi.

According to Kakizi, the exhibition aims at giving visibility to local female artists within Rwanda's contemporary art context, while demonstrating how engaging young Rwandan women are through visual arts practices.

 A collage by Crista Uwase.

"I was inspired by Maya Angelou’s quote that says ‘make every effort to change things you don’t like, and if you can’t make a change, change the way you have been thinking. You might find a solution.’ The fact that I believe that women should take the lead and create methods for showcasing their work rather than relying only on invites to exhibit,’’ she said.

The artist further explained that the artworks that would be showcased during this exhibition address violence against women, sisterhood, mental health, struggles women go through, and so much more.

Talking to Louise Kanyange, one of the painters who will showcase her artworks in ‘At the entrance’ exhibition, she expressed her gratitude for having been chosen among others to be part of this art exhibition.

"It makes me happy to see women getting to know their power and their role in raising important conversations in the community. I am grateful for having been chosen to showcase my artworks in this exhibition. I hope that the message behind my artworks as well as others too will be of a great benefit to many, which is why we urge everyone not to miss out on the opportunity to share our message,’’ she shared.

Gretta Ingabire, one of the artists who will showcase her artworks in this exhibition also highlighted that she is very happy to be part of the art exhibition and celebrating art with her fellow female artists as it is an empowering gesture for the future and the growth of the art industry in our community as well as female painters.

"I am proud of being a part of the growth of local female painters. My artworks focus on spreading a message of freedom and independence of a woman. I want to encourage women to embrace their power and beauty,’’ she said.

Kakizi noted that they hope to see the dialogue of women empowerment translate into giving women opportunities and spaces to express their ideas and to continue stimulating conversations that bring change in the community.

She added that all covid-19 measures will be observed during this art exhibition.