Women’s involvement with barkcloth exposed in solo exhibition

What the report says

The Independent Uganda reports that multimedia artist Fred Kato Mutebi is using his latest solo exhibition to highlight women’s role in Uganda’s barkcloth production chain. The show, titled “Kulega” to “Kuleega”: Okubaziira mu Kuteenga, is on view at Bumu Art Gallery in Mengo, inside the Buganda Heritage and Tourism Board premises near Butikiiro building.

According to the article, Mutebi’s work is rooted in research carried out with barkcloth makers in his home community of Bukomasimbi in Masaka. He explores the full journey of the organic fabric, from harvesting and processing to the finished material, while focusing especially on kubaziira, the stitching and repairing stage that helps maintain the cloth after it is beaten thin. The exhibition also presents barkcloth as a canvas for painting and documentation, reflecting the artist’s effort to preserve traditional techniques while experimenting with new forms.

The Independent says women feature prominently in the works, both as figures in the paintings and as central participants in barkcloth making. The exhibition places this contribution within broader themes such as family, solidarity, African identity and cultural preservation. It also forms part of activities marking the 33rd anniversary of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s coronation.

The article suggests the show matters because it draws attention to an often overlooked part of barkcloth production and underscores the need to preserve the craft for future generations.