Kenya Art & 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 exemplify the country’s history of adornment and decoration which is still a vividly influential tradition among Kenyans. art crafts
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 building Ground floor, 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