Seleman Kubwimana

Seleman Kubwimana

Contemporary Visual Artist

Kigali, Rwanda

Artist Statement

I paint the resilience of everyday Rwandans street vendors, farmers, and hardworking mothers who carry courage in their daily lives. With smooth, solid backgrounds and detailed figures, my work focuses attention on the strength and dignity of each person I portray.

Using smooth, solid backgrounds and small, highly detailed figures, I create a powerful contrast: the simplicity of the space draws all attention to the subject, allowing their dignity, emotion, and presence to speak boldly. The empty space becomes a world where their story stands alone, seen, valued, and respected.

My mission is rooted in my own story. Raised by a single mother who was a street vendor, I understand the struggle and the hope behind every sale. Through my art, I honor these heroes.

Every piece supports the communities that inspire it, helping vulnerable street vendors, especially single mothers, move toward safer and more stable livelihoods.

Artist Signature

Journey Through Time

Birth & Early Life

Born on January 1st, 1995, in Nyarugenge District, Kigali, Rwanda. Early exposure to the vibrant cultural landscape of Rwanda.

Primary Education

Attended Amizero Biryogo Primary School in Nyarugenge District, where his artistic inclinations first began to manifest.

Formal Art Training

Studied plastic arts at École d'art de Nyundo for three transformative years, earning his secondary school diploma in graphic arts.

Digital Media Mastery

Advanced diploma in Information Technology (Digital Media Production) at Integrated Polytechnic Regional College Kigali.

Gallery Assistant

Working at Envision Media Arts Collection, bridging the gap between artistic creation and curation.

Skills & Expertise

Fine Arts

  • Drawing & Painting
  • Sculpture
  • Ceramics
  • Installation Art
  • Collages

Digital Arts

  • Adobe Creative Suite
  • Cinema 4D
  • Digital Media Production
  • Photo Manipulation
  • Video Editing

Languages

  • Kinyarwanda (Native)
  • English (Fluent)
  • French (Fluent)
  • Kiswahili (Fluent)

Interests

  • Contemporary Painting
  • Tennis
  • Dance
  • Jogging
  • Cultural Preservation

Exhibitions & Recognition

2019

International Recognition

"Rwanda Retold" at MOCADA Museum, New York City - bringing Rwandan stories to global audiences.

Group Exhibition
2018

Peace & Unity Project

Participated in Umubano Artist Project (Icyizere) promoting peace, unity, and reconciliation in Rwanda.

Social Impact
2021

Artist Residency

Completed residency program at Kigali Green Gallery, exploring sustainable art practices.

Residency
2022

Cultural Exchange

"Art Diverse" at Belgium Ambassador's Residency, bridging artistic communities across regions.

Group Exhibition

Media & Press Coverage

International Recognition

Featured in media outlets across multiple countries including Finland, Spain, Nigeria, Kenya, and France.

Television Appearances

Showcased on Rwanda Television, KTN News Kenya, France24, and TV10 Rwanda discussing contemporary African art.

Digital Presence

Work featured on True African Art (New York) and Komeza Art online galleries, reaching global audiences.

Current Exhibitions

Kigali, Rwanda

Envision Media Arts Collection

Permanent exhibition space showcasing contemporary works that blend traditional African motifs with modern artistic expression.

Currently Exhibiting
Kigali, Rwanda

Heaven Hotel Rwanda

Curated collection featuring works that celebrate the beauty of Rwandan culture and the resilience of its people.

Currently Exhibiting
New York, USA

True African Art Gallery

Online gallery connecting African artists with global collectors, featuring rotating selections of contemporary African art.

Online Exhibition

Discover the Art

Explore Seleman's complete collection and discover how contemporary African art can transform spaces and inspire communities.