Grassroots Rwandan artist Ndayambaje Mohammed drew on Imigongo, a traditional Rwandan art form, to create a powerful artistic piece tied at its core to Rwandan culture. This piece formed the key inspiration for the IAS 2025 visual identity.
Artist: Ndayambaje Mohammed
About the art form
Imigongo has adorned walls, pottery and canvasses in Rwanda for hundreds of years. Traditionally, women create this art by painting in cow dung in bold, geometric designs, often in red, black and white.
Meet the artist, in his own words
My name is Ndayambaje Mohammed, and I am known locally as “Zulu Art”. I am a local artist, 40 years old, and was born and raised in the Musanze district. I have been doing art since I was 10 years old: I had a natural talent and no formal education. I have been part of the Red Rocks Initiative. I work alongside other local artists, teaching them how to paint and make artistic sculptures from clay and upcycled materials to demonstrate the Rwandan cultural heritage, conservation and community. I have been collaborating in shaping future artists by sharing my knowledge and bringing children from the village to the arts centre, where I teach them about painting.
Throughout the process of making these Imigongo patterns and designs, part of my inspiration comes from ideas that I believe illustrate the concepts of the nature that surrounds us. Each tile I create embodies different positive feelings and emotions, reflecting the harmonious and dynamic nature of our interconnected lives as a society. The patterns and designs symbolize unity and cooperation that is a foundation for our community, with every pattern telling its own story of togetherness, community resilience and mutual support. The vibrant colours and geometric shapes are a celebration of life and culture, aimed at evoking a sense of belonging in those who view them.
About the Red Rocks Initiative
In the heart of Rwanda's verdant landscape lies a sanctuary of art, culture and community, known as Red Rocks Rwanda. Part of the Red Rocks Initiative, the Red Rocks Cultural Arts Centre is a vibrant tapestry of heritage, creativity and natural splendour.
The beating heart of Red Rocks Rwanda lies in its commitment to preserving Rwanda’s cultural heritage and fostering community bonds. Here, guests have the opportunity to engage in a myriad of activities, from hands-on traditional craft workshops to storytelling sessions that unravel the intricate tales woven into the fabric of Rwandan history.
Red Rocks is not just a place to observe; it’s a space for cultural exchange and collaboration. Visitors are encouraged to actively participate, whether by learning traditional basket weaving techniques, joining in communal farming activities, or simply engaging in conversations with the warm and welcoming locals.
Red Rocks Initiative:
PO Box 87, Musanze, Rwanda
Phone: (+250)-789 254 315 or (+250 788 564 505)
Website: www.redrocksinitiative.org
Email: info@redrocksinitiative.org
