As Aidchild’s Artist of the Year in 2004, he has a long history with the organization that cares for 3,000 children and family members in Rwanda. “Working with Aidchild, we as artists see that we are celebrating the arts, and at the same time earning school fees for our own kids, and even paying schools fees and medication for so many other kids. It makes Rwanda proud!” he added, in reference to the fact that Aidchild is 70% self-sustained as it provides comprehensive care to orphans living with AIDS – while also promoting the great talent of Rwanda’s leading artists.

When asked about the fact that every piece is priced less than Ush 200,000, Aidchild management commented that Mukiibi is generously offering the show at much, much less than his usual rate; thereby making a signifcant donation to the school fees budget at the project. “This is a great opportunity for art lovers. Less than Ush 200,000! That’s unheard of!” the manager said. Adding, “We are so grateful!”

“Castles in the Air” is am impressive show that celebrates Mukiibi’s signature palette and style – while at the same time offering a fresh, new perspective. Each piece makes a strong reference to the great value of parenthood, nutrition, and “the care of the home”: people coming from the market ready to provide a meal; colourful laundry hanging from a clothesline, each garment very unique, “representing the different

characteristics of people”. In one image, two birds “are courting, showing that no matter how different we are, at the end of the day, we just want to find love.” The artist’s trademark (yet subtle) use of fish-images is seen again in this exhibition. When asked the significance of the fish, he says, “No language unites us as East Africans, but Lake Victoria does. When the Lake’s fish are healthy, we are all healthy. By taking care of those closest to us, we are also providing health and hope for the region – and the world.” Again referencing our hopes and dreams – our “Castles in the Air” – and our ability to empower each other to reach them.

One particularly charming piece gives a hint of Mukiibi’s thoughts; of his motivation in the studio. It’s called “My Little Aquarium” and it depicts several large bottles housing pet fish. “When we were kids, we couldn’t afford an aquarium, so we would carefully collect juice bottles, and then catch fish to keep as pets inside them,” he says. “We tried to take such good care of them, and shared our bread with them. Many bottles made up one aquarium.” Again one is reminded of nurturing care, and the simple joys of childhood.

Mukiibi is married and has two children. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Literature and Social Linguistics from Makerere University.

The artist will be available to discuss this show every Thursday in June, from 5pm to 7pm, at the Aidchild Gallery in the main lobby at the Sheraton Kampala Hotel. The exhibition can be seen all day, every day through the end of July 2009.

Aidchild pays commissions to the artists, and pays rent to the Sheraton, with 100% of the remaining proceeds
going to the care of orphans living with AIDS.