Budding artists headline Kigali Arts Festival launch

It was a blend of art and fashion at the first edition of Kigali Arts Festival held at Umubano Hotel, Kacyiru, on Saturday. The festival, which kicked off at 10am, featured exhibition of various artifacts and crafts by over 38 exhibitors. Francois Ingabire, the festival coordinator, said the aim of the festival was to market Rwandan arts and crafts to visitors. 23-year-old designer, Sabrina Ashimwe, said it is a great platform for upcoming arts. African inspired lampshade at the exhibition. (Stephen Kalimba) “There are many people who make handcrafts but don’t have anywhere to showcase their pieces;this is their platform. Here, we network and meet clients. Hopefully it will take place again,” said the young designer. The crafts included “Imigongo” (an art form made by women using cow dung), serigraphy, the “Agaseke” basket, African earrings, banana fiber paper, and Banana Bark Art, for a fee. The festival was followed by a fashion show at 6pm where six local designers displayed their creations. The audience watched a diverse collection of colourful African prints displayed on the runway. Legendary songstress Cecile Kayirebwa also attended. Despite sound trouble, JGWE band and Krizzo the African entertained the guests. editorial@newtimes.co.rw

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Budding artists headline Kigali Arts Festival launch