Faces of Culture turns MoTIV into a melting pot of creativity
Held from October 9 to 11, the exhibition, organised by photographer Frank Tumuhairwe, explored the theme Threads of Humanity, using different creative expressions to tell stories about people, identity and the connections that bind communities together.From documentary portraiture and live music to fashion runways, body art and interactive creative spaces, the event offered visitors more than a conventional art exhibition. It created a platform where artists could showcase their work while inviting audiences to engage with the stories behind it.
Faces of Culture turns MoTIV into a melting pot of creativity
By: Alex Balimwikungu,Journalist
MoTIV in Bugolobi turned into a vibrant celebration of art, fashion, music and identity over Independence weekend as the second edition of Faces of Culture brought together creatives and culture enthusiasts for a three-day showcase.
Held from October 9 to 11, the exhibition, organised by photographer Frank Tumuhairwe, explored the theme Threads of Humanity, using different creative expressions to tell stories about people, identity and the connections that bind communities together.
From documentary portraiture and live music to fashion runways, body art and interactive creative spaces, the event offered visitors more than a conventional art exhibition. It created a platform where artists could showcase their work while inviting audiences to engage with the stories behind it.
Uga Boys Entertaining People Who Attended At Faces Of Culture Art Exhibition At Motiv
Photography took centre stage, with portraits providing glimpses into people’s lives, experiences and identities. Through the lens, ordinary faces became powerful storytelling tools, reminding visitors that every individual has a story worth telling.
Fashion added another layer to the exhibition, with runway presentations showcasing creativity, personal expression and the influence of culture on contemporary style. Body art and other interactive installations further blurred the lines between artists and audiences, encouraging visitors to experience creativity rather than simply observe it.
The live music performances were by the Uga Boys, who got applauded by the sizeable crowd. They gave the gathering an energetic atmosphere and reinforced the role of music as a universal language.
For Tumuhairwe, the exhibition’s return for a second season signalled an effort to create a sustainable platform for creatives to share ideas, collaborate and reach new audiences.
Frank Tumuhairwe Explaining Some Of His Art Pieces To The Attendees At Motiv During His Faces Of Culture Art Exhibition
The choice of the Independence weekend also gave the exhibition added significance. As Uganda marked another year of independence, Faces of Culture invited audiences to reflect on the country’s diverse identities and the role of creative expression in shaping its cultural story.
Unlike celebrations centred largely on political speeches and national symbolism, the exhibition approached identity through the intimate lens of art, fashion, music and personal narratives.
Its theme, Threads of Humanity, underscored the idea that while people may differ in background, experience and expression, creativity can provide common ground.
The three-day gathering also highlighted the growing place of spaces such as MoTIV in Kampala’s creative scene, providing a meeting point for artists, designers, photographers, performers and audiences.
As the curtains came down on the second edition, Faces of Culture left behind a reminder that culture is not merely something inherited from the past. It is continuously shaped by the people who express it, challenge it and give it new meaning through their work.
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