This archive report was first published on 1 September 2019.
Ikigai: A Reason for Being ¶
Published on September 1, 2019, the concept of ikigai has been gaining popularity worldwide, including in East Africa. It originated on the island of Okinawa, believed to be home to the largest number of centenarians in the world.
Ikigai is a philosophy that encourages individuals to find their purpose in life, often referred to as a 'reason for being.' It is about cultivating an environment where meaningful human interactions are nurtured.
One of the ikigai centres in Nairobi has hosted a pop-up exhibition featuring the works of three artists: Sungi Mlengeya from Tanzania, and Elias Mung'ora and Anne Mwiti from Kenya.
The exhibition showcases 21 paintings, including portraits of women that celebrate African womanhood. Sungi Mlengeya's mission is to express beauty in blackness, bring forth pride, and cement an unmovable spirit.
Meanwhile, Elias Mung'ora's realist style emphasizes the literal street scenes in Nairobi, while Anne Mwiti's paintings have evolved from abstract to portraits and landscapes, reflecting her experiences and observations.
Another artist, Austin Adika, has recently held his first solo show, titled 'Fragments of the Soul,' featuring 20 Expressionist paintings and 10 wire sculptures.
These artistic expressions not only showcase the talents of the artists but also contribute to the well-being of the community, highlighting the importance of ikigai in our lives.
