Kenyan Painter Celebrates African Heritage in Australian Art Scene

Kenyan visual artist Josephine Komen is making waves in Australia with her artwork that celebrates and preserves the cultural heritage of Kenya and Africa.

At the African Visual Arts Exhibition 2024 in South Australia, organized by The African Communities Council of South Australia (ACCSA), Komen showcased her paintings and shared her artistic journey. Originally arriving in Australia as a student, Komen has cultivated her lifelong passion for art which began in her childhood. Komen's artwork primarily focuses on capturing the beauty of her homeland and the broader African continent. Through her paintings, she aims to provide viewers with a visual connection to the stunning landscapes, wildlife, and natural beauty of her native country.

For Komen, art serves not only as a means of preserving memories but also as a tool for empowerment, inspiring others to embrace their cultural roots and maintain their identity. One of Komen's notable pieces features an African Afro hairstyle, highlighting her advocacy for embracing natural African hair. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing and celebrating the beauty of African hair, encouraging people to feel confident in their natural appearance. Komen also addresses the challenges of maintaining one's identity while living in a foreign land and calls on Africans living abroad to proudly express their cultural heritage.

In addition to her artistic pursuits, Komen works as a model and holds the title of Miss Kitwek South Australia. Additionally, she has founded her own swim school. Her participation in the African Visual Arts Exhibition 2024 is part of the larger South Australian Living Artists (SALA) Festival, Australia's largest open-access visual arts celebration. The 27th SALA Festival, held throughout August, features an impressive array of artists and exhibitions across Adelaide and regional South Australia. This year's theme, "Diversity in Arts Exhibition," aligns perfectly with the mission of the African Visual Arts Exhibition to celebrate the work of African visual artists and other emerging communities.

The festival is renowned for its inclusivity and diversity, showcasing a wide range of artistic mediums from traditional to contemporary. The SALA Festival provides a platform for both established and emerging artists to display their work in various settings, including galleries, cafes, city streets, laneways, community spaces, and creative hubs. This year's festival has introduced several new initiatives such as the SALA Hub at ILA Light Square which serves as a vibrant meeting place for artists and art enthusiasts. The festival also offers a variety of events, including artist talks, workshops, guided tours, and the popular Slide Night, where artists present their work in an engaging format.