1928-2021
Shaping Kenyan Art with Paper and Passion
ROSEMARY KARUGA
A Figure Pouring Items Out of a Basket
EARLY LIFE AND INFLUENCES
Rosemary Karuga, born on 19 June 1928 in Meru, Kenya, emerged as a pioneering figure in the East African art scene. With a Ugandan father and a Kenyan mother, her upbringing was enriched by diverse cultural influences.
Her artistic journey began in a Catholic primary school, where an Irish nun recognised her talent and recommended her to study at Makerere University in Uganda. There, she became the first female student at the School of Fine Art, studying design, painting, and sculpture from 1950 to 1952. This foundational education set the stage for her future contributions to the art world, despite societal expectations that often limited women's roles.
Untitled
Untitled (Three Birds)
A LONG HIATUS
After graduating, Karuga returned to Kenya and embarked on a career as a teacher. She married in 1953, raised three children, and managed a household, which left little time for personal artistic pursuits. For over three decades, she did not actively engage in art-making, as societal norms dictated her focus on family responsibilities.
Her story is emblematic of many women of her generation, who navigated the challenges of balancing personal aspirations with societal expectations. However, her passion for art never waned, and she eventually returned to her creative roots, inspired by her daughter's encouragement.
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REKINDLING HER PASSION
In the late 1980s, Karuga retired from teaching and began to explore her artistic talents once more. Despite failing eyesight and hearing, she embraced her creativity using accessible materials like newspapers and magazines to create collages. This innovative approach allowed her to express the vibrancy of African life, depicting pastoral and domestic scenes with extraordinary detail and simplicity.
Her work gained recognition when she became an artist-in-residence at the Paa Ya Paa Arts Centre in Nairobi. This opportunity marked the beginning of her professional artistic career, and her unique style quickly garnered attention.
Untitled // 1996
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Karuga's breakthrough came in the 1990s when she was commissioned to illustrate Nigerian writer Amos Tutuola's novel The Palm-Wine Drinkard. This project propelled her work onto the international stage, culminating in her participation in the 1992 exhibition Contemporary African Artists: Changing Tradition at the Studio Museum in Harlem, New York.
As the only female artist featured, Karuga's collages stood alongside works by renowned African artists, highlighting her as a significant figure in contemporary African art. Her international acclaim continued to grow, with exhibitions in Paris and London further cementing her status as a respected artist.
Untitled // 1998
INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
Karuga's breakthrough came in the 1990s when she was commissioned to illustrate Nigerian writer Amos Tutuola's novel The Palm-Wine Drinkard. This project propelled her work onto the international stage, culminating in her participation in the 1992 exhibition Contemporary African Artists: Changing Tradition at the Studio Museum in Harlem, New York.
As the only female artist featured, Karuga's collages stood alongside works by renowned African artists, highlighting her as a significant figure in contemporary African art. Her international acclaim continued to grow, with exhibitions in Paris and London further cementing her status as a respected artist.
Strolling Leopard // 1994
Untitle (Boy with a Walking Stick) (1998)
LEGACY AND IMPACT
Rosemary Karuga's contributions to the art world extend beyond her innovative collages. She paved the way for future generations of female artists in East Africa, challenging traditional gender roles and demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue one's passion.
Her work is celebrated in collections at the National Museums of Kenya, the Kenya National Archives, and various private collections. In 2006, she received a lifetime achievement award from the African Voice newspaper, recognising her impact on both the art world and society. Her legacy continues to inspire young artists, especially women, to explore their creativity and break new ground.