This archive report was first published on 7 August 2019.
On a state visit to Jamaica, First Lady Margaret Kenyatta toured the National Gallery of Jamaica (NGJ) on August 7, 2019, where she met and interacted with local and Kenyan artists showcasing their works.
The First Lady visited the NGJ to acquaint herself with the rich history and culture of the Caribbean nation, which shares many similarities with Kenya as former British colonies.
During a guided tour of the various galleries, the First Lady said that through the various pieces of art on display, it was clear that Kenya and Jamaica share a rich history and called on citizens of the two countries to learn from each other.
The gallery has preserved its rich colonial, post-colonial, and contemporary history through iconic exhibitions, carvings, sculptures, drawings, and several other forms of artistic work.
At the historical gallery, the First Lady was able to appreciate political exhibitions embodying Jamaican anti-colonial movement leading to their independence in 1962.
Kenyan artist Mazola wa Mwashighadi, who has exhibited his artworks in Jamaica since 1997, took the First Lady through his mixed sculpture explaining the importance of preserving the earth and extended love for women in their various roles, especially as mothers.
“To solve our problems, we must start by protecting mother earth, including the preservation of our oceans,” said Mazola.
The works of Jamaican artist Nadine Hall captured the attention of the visitors, including First Lady Margaret Kenyatta. Nadine’s artistic works seek to address marginalization and how it destroys people who suffer from trauma resulting from societal alienation and neglect.
