Two exhibitions are running concurrently to support veteran artist Patrick Mukabi’s medical care and celebrate his artistic work.
The Patrick Mukabi Medical Fund Benefit Art Exhibition opens on April 4 at Trademark Hotel, Village Market. This one-day showcase aims to raise funds for the artist, who has been hospitalised in recent weeks with medical bills currently at Sh420,000.
Curator Thadde Tewa, through Tewasart and Patrons, organised the fundraiser. The exhibition features 50 artworks donated by 47 artists.
Proceeds will be split as follows: 40 per cent toward Mukabi’s medical bills, 50 per cent to the artists, and 10 per cent for administrative costs.
An M-Changa drive has also been launched to bolster support. The initiative has received backing from the arts community, with artists contributing works and rallying around Mukabi during his illness.
Mukabi is highly respected in the visual arts scene for mentoring a generation of artists, conducting workshops, and supporting peers without financial gain.
“He has been selfless. The community owes him support,” says Tewa.
Corporate stakeholders, including Java House and Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which display Mukabi’s works, are among those Tewa says could help support artists in need.
As preparations continue, he hopes the initiative will not only fund Mukabi’s treatment but also highlight structural gaps in the visual arts sector.
“We need to strengthen solidarity within the arts community and create proper, sustainable structures that support the welfare of visual artists,” Tewa adds.
Meanwhile, a few kilometres away at Banana Hill Art Gallery, Mukabi’s solo exhibition Mali Safi has been running since March 21 and continues until May 5.
Curated by Njeri Njenga, the 23 paintings depict women at the marketplace. She praises Mukabi for portraying women beautifully and using vibrant colours that stand out from afar.
The exhibition includes recent works by Mukabi, alongside select pieces borrowed from collectors to fill the gallery walls, as the artist’s illness limited his output.
The show was initially planned for April to introduce Mukabi as a represented artist but was moved forward to March to serve as part of the fundraising effort.