New Art Exhibit: “Different Trends” By Hassan Mukiibi

A new and powerful exhibition of international scope is opening at Elegba Folklore Society’s Cultural Center, 101 East Broad Street, on Friday, March 4, 2016. Different Trends, acrylic paintings by celebrated Ugandan artist, Hassan Mukiibi, recognizes women’s undeniable — though often challenging — roles in society. Apropos during this Women’s History Month, the show opens at 5p as a part of the First Fridays Artwalk with a reception until 9p, music and gallery talk. Different Trends runs through May 31.

Mukiibi says, “Women have been and are oppressed socially, economically and politically and this, when they contribute strongly in the national transformation. They have helped in the struggle for justice and equality, their roles socially and culturally have made statement in building the economy and they have brought joy to our lives musically through their sweet voices, the way they dance and the art of fashion. Here, I portray women in different postures lines, motions and shapes. These touches are a source of inspiration for me and, hopefully, for the viewer. Here I advocate for social change.”

Hassan Mukiibi was born in 1983 in Kampala, Uganda, and he holds a degree in industrial fine arts from Makerere University. He is a specialist in printmaking, painting and textile treatments. A master at creating texture in the acrylic, he approaches his paintings as if the portrayal is through multi-dimensional textiles.

In addition to sheer artistic excellence, Mukiibi has used art as healing therapy — medication for physical and mental maladies — and, of course, to demonstrate the impact of women.

He has exhibited widely in Africa, Europe and the United States and, now, at Elegba Folklore Society’s Cultural Center.

Selected shows include:

Gallery Watatu, Nairobi
African Union Heads of State Summit, Kampala
Real African Art Gallery, Zanzibar
Makerere University, Kampala
Betsy Bowen Studio, Grand Marais, MN
Howard University, Washington, DC

Elegba Folklore Society is an African-centered cultural arts and education organization based
in Richmond, Virginia. Its work is in the areas of festivals and special events, performances in
African dance, music and dance theatre, cultural history tours and the visual arts and material
culture. It’s purpose is to re-instill cultural foundations among African Americans and to build
bridges of understanding within broader communities.

Among the Yoruba, Elegba is the Orisa or intercessor who opens the roads, bringing clarity
out of confusion. The organization’s intent is that its programs and services are, indeed,
road-opening experiences.

Embrace the Spirit!