Necklace (27)Original Source: Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Material culture and innovation
Rwandan material culture, encompassing crafts like basketry and woodwork and adorned with traditional motifs, is a treasure trove of intangible heritage. These ancestral techniques, skillfully applied to modern designs, are shaping the future of Rwandan fashion.
Weaving a bracelet by Rwanda Nyanza JewerlyRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Basketry and Fashion
Rwanda boasts numerous weavers' cooperatives, all dedicated to community empowerment through the art of weaving. They specialize in crafting beautiful objects that honor tradition while embracing innovation. Their diverse creations range from jewelry to decorative items.
Necklace (25)Original Source: Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Jewellery in the museums' collections
Museum exhibitions showcase Rwandan jewelry, where tradition meets modern design. Crafted by local artisans using time-honored techniques, these pieces cater to the tastes of both Rwandans and international audiences.
The necklaces were donated by Soroptimist International after an exhibition that was held at Ethnographic Museum in 2012. The exhibition was a result of a joint project with Soroptimist International and Cooperative Agaseke Muraza Kivumu.
Woven necklace and a bracelet worn by women.
Ngabo ring - Ktsobe by KtsobeRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Metal work: K'tsobe jewelries
K'tsobe crafts nature-inspired jewelry, drawing on Rwandan symbols and global influences. Their pieces, like the ring pictured, often incorporate silver, brass, seeds, wood, transforming everyday materials into cultural treasures.
Cows hold immense social, economic, and cultural significance in Rwanda. To celebrate this unique heritage, the artists that made the ring on the picture drew inspiration from cows' horns.
The Royal Icumu earrings
Spears, traditionally weapons of warriors, are now seen as cultural art in the form of earrings designed by K'tsobe.
This piece was on display at V&A Museum,{London} and will tour other venues like Brooklyn Museum {USA}, portland Art museum {USA}, National Gallery of Victoria
Ngabo bracelets by KtsobeRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Icumu/ Ingabo Bracelet
Inspired by cultural object, the bracelet is worn by men and women
Double imigongo earings by KtsobeRwanda Cultural Heritage Academy
Innovative preservation
Embracing Rwanda's dynamic culture, K'tsobe jewelry reimagines traditional materials for a modern audience. This earring's "Abashi" pattern, for example, reflects the ever-evolving Rwandan heritage.
Content contributors: Alice Kamasoni (Mininstry of Youth), Chantal Umuhoza (Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy) & Sarah Legrand (K'tsobe)
Curated by Chantal Umuhoza
Photographers: Chris Schwagga, Gael Vande Weghe & Andre Ntagwabira (Rwanda Cultural Heritage Academy)