Local Voices in the Scholarly Discourse on Art Studies in Kenya: A Postcolonial Enigma.

Abstract

This article investigates the state of art studies in Kenya, the reasons accounting for its situation, and perspectives of Kenyan scholars on such studies. It posits that the arts of Africa are studied from diverse perspectives, usually involving several disciplines: art history, anthropology, history, language, literature, philosophy, religion and studio/practical art. The research indicates that the key reasons that contribute to the present situation are the colonial educational policy, the absence of art studies in tertiary institutions in combination with a focus on the creative economy, and the commercialization of art through market forces. These delimit tuition to practical/studio art. Thus, at university level, Black African participation in scholarly discourse on Kenyan art is minimal. This article recommends the introduction of art studies with new methodologies that could bring fresh perspectives and insights into the complexity and interconnectedness of African cultures.