Kenya Arts & Crafts

Kenya is where it all begins. A country which offers its visitors as much to see and do ranging from natural tours, cultural trips to endless opportunities for adventure, discovery into the country’s arts and crafts.

Art History in Kenya

Modern forms of art came to Kenya after the end of the colonial period. But before colonial times, art of carving existed throughout Kenya to produce both functional and decorative items especially for traditional functions.

The country has recently established a name as a home for bohemian expatriate artists, and there are many international artists living and working here. Kenya art crafts exemplify the country’s history of adornment and decoration which is still a vividly influential tradition among Kenyans.

Graphical art in Kenya has a much less defined history. There are certain traditions in design and representation derived from rock art patterns, but also considerable influence from the coast. Textile design and decorative art throughout the coast created strong Swahili designs from Middle Eastern roots. Art carving on the coast was centred on the Lamu islands, where the local Bajun tribe is believed to have influenced Arab craftsmen to create a unique hybrid of styles.

As a campaign to promote more handicrafts in the country, an independent trust -Kuona Trust has been set up at the National Museum to encourage and give confidence to Kenyan artists as well as help them in marketing their Craft products.

Guideforafrica.com provides you an online directory to the most prominent Kenya Arts and Crafts Galleries.

1. AK crafts corner

Mombasa

Tel 041 2316844

2. African contemporary Art collection ltd

Mukinduri rd, Nairobi

Tel 020 890721

3. Art craft

Africa bldg Grd fl, Moi ave

Mombasa

Tel 041 2226233

4. Collectors Den

Hilton hotel bldg, samba st

Tel 020 226990,230594

5. Cross culture craft ltd

Merchantile House Koinange st

Tel 020 218505

6. Exclusive Kenya handicraft

Karen shopping centre,

Tel 020 882365, 882493

7. Lamu shell & crafts

Samburu Rd, Mombasa

Tel 041 2220740

8. Maru Art gallery

20th century Plaza

Nairobi

Tel 020 224621

9. Mombasa Art centre

Calton House, Moi ave

Tel 041 225218

10. Pendeza Weaving

Kisumu

Tel 057 20882589

11. Village Arts collections

Tel 020 27123115