Inema Arts Gallery is a showcase and collection of Rwanda’s creative arts, located in the capital, Kigali. It is one of the largest art galleries in East Africa.
Founded in 2012 by two brothers, Emmanuel Nkuranga and Innocent Nkurunziza, who are self-taught painters, the gallery is named “Inema” after a combination of their names. The word also means “blessing.”
The gallery was created to explore and develop the hidden artistic talent of Rwandans. It has succeeded in becoming a center for amazing art exhibitions, performances, and workshops. The gallery is full of vibrant and colorful artwork that brings the space to life.
Inema Arts Gallery features a wide range of art pieces by artists from East Africa and across the continent. Its mission to bring the community and the country alive through art is achieved as artists and performers from different backgrounds gather here to express their creativity.
The gallery promotes personal, social, and economic development through contemporary music, dance, drama, art, and crafts.
Artists are provided with a supportive environment to work in harmony with nature, encouraging their creativity.
The gallery has become one of the busiest art centers in Rwanda, with various programs running throughout the week, including creative workshops, gallery visits, yoga classes, and “Art with a Mission,” which supports orphans.
Painting sessions are also held, and Thursday nights are especially exciting, with performances from musicians, poets, actors, and other creative personalities during happy hour.
The gallery is home to several local designer shops, mini art galleries, and excellent restaurants like Sole Luna, known for its delicious pizza, and Inema Café, which serves great coffee and snacks. For art lovers, Inema Arts Gallery is a must-visit.
The gardens are decorated with brightly painted cars and scooters, and the walls are covered with eye-catching graphics and patterns that are expressive and poetic.
Visitors will be amazed by the beautiful sculptures and portraits displayed throughout the gallery. One section features colorful bags, jewelry, and other accessories made by groups of women.
The Nziza Art Initiative and workshop crafts area showcase unique crafts made by women from across Rwanda.
Women can be seen sewing, knitting, and creating attractive pieces all day, which are sold to support their cooperatives.
During a visit, you can interact with the artists, learn how artwork is created from scratch, see how canvases are made, and admire their masterpieces.
Depending on the day, you may also witness or participate in traditional dances like “Amaraba” and “Intore”, performed by girls and boys.
These dances raise money for school fees for underprivileged communities while preserving cultural values.
The gallery also hosts training sessions, workshops, and exhibitions to teach skills to those interested in learning or finding inspiration. At the back of the gallery is a residence that can house up to 10 artists at a time.
These artists work on creating beautiful pieces, often using everyday or recycled materials. Watching their creations come to life is truly inspiring.
The gallery’s strikingly designed facade is easy to spot from a distance. Whether you are on a sightseeing tour or a cultural safari in Rwanda, Inema Arts Gallery is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit and experience the beauty of creativity.
