art Lamu 2017

Lamu is a place like no other. Steeped in the rich history of the monsoon winds, the island has retained its character through the preservation of its culture. Story telling, poetry, music and calligraphy are still highly regarded. The unique Swahili identity is still seen in the architecture and Lamu’s arts & craftsmanship. Lamu Town, where echoes of a distant past are heard louder than anywhere else, has been declared a World Heritage Site of UNESCO.

At the beginning of 2017, 23 international artists were invited into this vibrant artistic community. Their mission was to mirror the diversity of Swahili society and the colours of Lamu daily life.

The artists’ residency culminated in an exhibition in the imposing Lamu Fort. In conjunction with the art show, Kenyan musicians including Idd Aziz and Labdi performed a free concert in the square. Celebrations for the Lamu Art Festival continued with sunset dhow cruises, music on Manda and the obligatory dhow competition from the legendary Peponi beach - a metaphor for the ‘Art of Living’ - Lamu style.