Margaretta Swigert-gacheru

Creating Contemporary African Art: Art Networks in Urban Kenya Margaretta Swigert-gacheru

The contemporary African art world in Kenya is exploding with creative expression fueled largely by innovative young Kenyan artists working in diverse media and debunking the myth that Kenya has no contemporary art, only curios fit for tourists. Yet this vibrant and multifaceted Kenyan art scene has been largely ignored by global art circles. 'Creating Contemporary African Art' first contextualizes current Kenyan artistic activities appreciating that African artists have been working for decades, some formally trained, others informally trained or self-taught. The text highlights the jua kali art movement of local artists who have thrived in the informal sector. It identifies various art networks in Nairobi where Kenyans have been working to create contemporary art, particularly since World War II. The ?junk art? movement has been given special attention since Dr. Gacheru feels it best illustrates the ingenuity and resourceful style of Kenyan artists. A chapter focused on the rising tide of Kenyan female artists is also meant to debunk the myth that Kenyan women are not in the forefront of the current renaissance in contemporary African art in Kenya.