Due to the civil war in Sudan, artists Hozaifa Elsiddig and Waleed Mohammed have fled to Kenya, where they have built a supportive bond while showcasing their art. Their recent exhibition in Nairobi emphasizes themes of resilience and identity tied to their experiences as displaced individuals, symbolizing hope and community amidst the challenges posed by conflict.
In April 2023, Sudanese painter and architecture student Hozaifa Elsiddig was nearing graduation from Khartoum University when conflict erupted, governed by two leading generals. The vibrant art scene in Khartoum, where he had displayed his work, rapidly transformed into a war zone amidst a brutal civil war that led to an estimated 150,000 fatalities and displaced over 11 million individuals. Mr. Elsiddig, alongside fellow painter Waleed Mohammed, is part of the wave of Sudanese artists seeking refuge in Kenya.
As they settle in Nairobi, Mr. Elsiddig and Mr. Mohammed have forged a deep connection through their shared experience as displaced artists. Their companionship blossomed from prior admiration for one another’s work at art exhibitions in Sudan, culminating in them residing together in an apartment including their cat, Nova. Their artistic expressions reflect the earthy tones and historical narratives resonant with Sudan’s tumultuous past.
Mr. Mohammed articulates, “I am trying to capture the resilience of the Sudanese, reflect on memory, identity, the transformations of having to leave home.” With their recent exhibition in Nairobi, the artists aim to share their journey with the Kenyan audience, even as uncertainties about their future loom large. Mr. Mohammed expresses a hopeful desire for Mr. Elsiddig to remain in Nairobi, yet acknowledges the unpredictable nature of their circumstances.
Their joint venture into the Kenyan art scene has not only facilitated their creative pursuits but has also provided a supportive environment amidst their struggles. At their debut exhibit titled “The Station x Rahiem Shadad,” the artists showcase their paintings, offering insights into their identity as Sudanese artists displaced by conflict. This exhibition marks a significant milestone in their artistic careers, symbolizing resilience amidst adversity, and highlighting the power of art to foster community and connection.
The narrative of Sudanese artists Hozaifa Elsiddig and Waleed Mohammed illustrates the profound impact of war on creative lives, transforming struggle into artistic expression. Their journey from displacement in Sudan to camaraderie in Nairobi serves as a testament to resilience, highlighting the essential role art plays in fostering community. As they adapt to a new cultural landscape, their work stands as a beacon of hope and creative fortitude amidst adversity.
Original Source: www.csmonitor.com
