Against the Norm

In Kampala, the Aka Gallery is hosting an exhibition titled 'Against the Norm,' showcasing the work of two self-taught Ugandan artists, Ibra Kitimbo and Paul Kintu. The exhibition delves into the long-standing debate about whether formally trained or self-taught artists produce superior work.

Historically, artists learned through apprenticeships, a system that shifted after the Industrial Revolution with the rise of liberal thinking and the concept of the "self-taught artist." This departure from traditional institutional training allowed artists to explore beyond established boundaries. Henri Rousseau, initially mocked for his unconventional compositions, later gained acclaim and is now considered a godfather of modern art.

The core argument presented is that self-taught artists possess a distinct advantage: the freedom to disregard the conventional "dos and don'ts" of art making. This lack of constraint can foster greater creativity, unlike formally trained artists whose work might be influenced by academic principles. However, the article acknowledges that formal training equips artists with a broad range of techniques and skills that can be invaluable.

Kitimbo and Kintu, both experienced artists on the Ugandan contemporary scene, demonstrate diverse approaches in technique, theme, and subject matter. Their convergence lies in their shared practice of defying the norms of art creation, as evidenced in their current exhibition at Aka Gallery on Bukoto Street, Kamwokya.